PUBLIC libraries are set to benefit from a £150,000 funding boost in “genuinely uplifting news” – but it’s a “drop in the ocean” after decades of underfunding, experts have said.
Local library services in England will see up to £150,000 as part of the National Year of Reading 2026, it has been announced.
The fund is expected to support projects across 72 library authority areas which are disadvantaged by high deprivation, weak social infrastructure and low library engagement, helping ensure that people in every part of the country can access the life‑changing benefits of reading, regardless of income or background.
Further to this support, the government will award a £1,000 cash prize to each of the five English regional winners of The British Book Awards Library of the Year to continue local reading projects, celebrating the best of civic pride across England.
Libraries Minister, Baroness Twycross, said: “Reading opens doors to new worlds, sparks imagination and unlocks new opportunities. The National Year of Reading is inspiring people across the country to read and visit their local library to make the most of the many services they offer.
“Ahead of publishing our new strategy for public libraries later this year, this funding will help our libraries reach even more people in their communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can experience the joy of reading and the benefits of our local libraries.”
It does not address long-term structural underfunding
Taryn Lee Johnston, Owner at Lincoln-based The FCM Group, said there has been underfunding for years in libraries.
She added: “As an independent publisher, I welcome any investment in public libraries. They are one of the last truly open civic spaces, giving free access to books, digital resources and community support. They create readers, and readers sustain the entire publishing ecosystem.
“It is helpful, but it does not address the long-term structural underfunding many library services have faced over the past decade.
“Libraries are more than places to pick up books, they are literacy hubs, digital access points, warm spaces, study environments, community centres and safe spaces. If we genuinely value reading, funding must be sustained and long term, not occasional headline figures.”
Ray Star, author and writing coach at Ray Star Books, said libraries are vitally important.
She continued: “This is genuinely uplifting news for communities across England. Libraries are far more than places to borrow books – they are safe, inclusive spaces where imagination, literacy and confidence are nurtured, particularly for children and young people who may not have access to books or creative opportunities at home.
“Targeted investment like this has the power to reignite a love of reading, support emerging writers, and strengthen social connection in areas that need it most. At a time when attention spans are shrinking and creativity is under pressure, backing libraries is an investment in our collective future.”
Great mindful de-stressing activity
Dr Marianne Trent, Clinical Psychologist at Coventry-based Good Thinking Psychology, said libraries are important for the mental health of everyone.
She added: “The news about increased funding to libraries is amazing and I am delighted to hear it. My pre-teen kids and I all visit the library weekly. It fits into our routine as it’s close by to their swimming lessons. I would be so sad to see it close. I think trying to make sure people can integrate libraries into their everyday lives is going to be key to their survival.
“When I worked for the NHS I would host a mental health clinic in a library each week. It was great to be able to signpost people to books they could borrow which would support their wellbeing. Having access to books across a whole range of topics opens the world to ourselves and our children. Furthermore, in an online world, reading an actual book can be a great mindful de-stressing activity.”
Tony Redondo, Founder at Newquay-based Cosmos Currency Exchange, said the sector has “deep cracks” of underfunding.
He continued: “Any funding boost is always welcome, but it is a drop in the ocean after a decade of systemic cuts. Libraries remain vital ‘third places’ providing digital access and literacy support, yet one-off grants don’t cover rising operational costs. In Cornwall, the impact is tangible but complex.
“The county has secured author Tom Palmer as a 2026 ambassador, launching a Cornish-themed trilogy to drive engagement. Recent successes like the Perranporth reopening show local momentum, though many branches now rely on volunteers following devolution to parish councils.
“Ultimately, this funding provides essential oxygen for specific projects and civic pride, but the sector still awaits a long-term strategy to address the deeper cracks caused by years of austerity and rural isolation.”
Nouran Moustafa, Practice Principal & IFA at Roxton Wealth, said libraries need sustained investment.
She added: “This funding is absolutely welcome, particularly if it’s targeted toward areas facing high deprivation and low engagement, because libraries are one of the few truly universal public services left. They’re not just about books, they’re digital access points, job search hubs, literacy support centres and safe community anchors.
“For families who can’t afford devices, broadband or quiet study space, libraries are infrastructure. That said, £150,000 for 72 authorities is modest when set against years of budget pressure and closures. It’s a positive signal, but not a structural fix. If the government wants libraries to genuinely drive social mobility and reading outcomes, this needs to be the start of a long term funding strategy rather than a one off headline.
“If we’re serious about literacy, opportunity and social mobility, libraries cannot survive on symbolic boosts, they need sustained investment that matches the vital role they quietly play in holding communities.”
A drop in the ocean after a decade of systemic cuts
Rohit Parmar-Mistry, Founder at Burton-on-Trent-based Pattrn Data, said libraries are used for more than just books.
He added: “£150,000 per authority is welcome, but it will not reverse a decade of cuts on its own. The real value is what libraries do that the market will not: free, trusted space where people can learn, get online, and ask for help without being sold to.
“In the rush to digitise everything, libraries have quietly become the front door for benefits, job searches, homework, and now AI literacy. When we audit automation in public services, the failure mode is always the same: shiny online systems that assume everyone has a device, data, confidence, and time.
“Libraries are the safety net for everyone. If the government wants impact, fund opening hours, trained staff, and modern kit, not one-off projects. Treat libraries as core social infrastructure, not a nice-to-have.”
Photo by Thierry Meier on Unsplash.
