Exeter UNESCO City of Literature urges support for a fully funded, appropriately staffed, modern library service in Devon
As the 12-week public consultation on the future of the library service in Devon begins, Exeter UNESCO City of Literature (ExCoL) calls on residents and decision-makers to recognise the long-term value of Devon’s 50-library network run by Libraries Unlimited, and to ensure it remains robust, accessible, and properly resourced.
Why libraries are worth investing in
Lifelong learning, digital access, and community sustainability
Libraries are often the most inclusive civic spaces, enabling access and equity for people facing greater barriers in our community. They act as “anchor institutions” that foster social cohesion, civic engagement, and community identity. (Scottish Book Trust)
According to UNESCO, public libraries are foundational to “literate environments,” offering reading materials and opportunities for people of all ages to build reading, writing, and digital-literacy skills. These capabilities reduce poverty, expand life choices, improve employment prospects, and contribute to sustainable development. (UNESCO.org)
In rural or underserved areas, libraries may be the last remaining public facility providing vital services, social connection, and access to information and support. (GOV.UK)
Significant economic and social value
A nationwide study found that England’s public libraries generate at least £3.4 billion in value annually—roughly £1 million per branch library in savings and benefits across health, wellbeing, and youth services. (librariesconnected.org.uk)
That represents a return of at least six times the cost of running libraries, by conventional public-service accounting standards. (librariesconnected.org.uk)
According to data from Better Libraries, the average library user saves £1,472.79 per year by borrowing books and using digital resources, free Wi-Fi, and workspace access. (lovereading.co.uk)
Reduced pressure on health and social care
A report commissioned by Arts Council England for the 2016–2021 period found that library use is associated with better self-reported health, and estimated a conservative saving of £27.5 million in reduced GP visits annually nationwide. (GOV.UK)
Recent research commissioned by Libraries Connected shows weekly arts & crafts and loneliness-reduction activities in libraries produce hundreds of thousands of pounds per year in health, wellbeing, and social-care savings, through lower demand for clinical services. (librariesconnected.org.uk)
What Exeter City of Literature is calling for
ExCoL believes Devon’s libraries should be treated as essential infrastructure, not optional extras. We urge Devon County Council to:
Recognise the full value libraries deliver—economically, educationally, and socially—and invest accordingly.
Maintain an accessible library network that is appropriately staffed by skilled workers across the county, rather than over-relying on voluntary or automated models or reducing opening hours.
Ensure equity of access for all communities, especially rural, low-income, older or digitally excluded residents by preserving support for those who need human-staffed access.
A call to Devon residents—make your voice heard
If libraries matter to you be it for reading, working, learning, connection, mental health, or community, please take this opportunity to share your perspective on both your local library and Devon’s county-wide library service. The consultation will influence how Devon libraries operate for years to come.
Now is the time to step forward. Share your experience. Share your needs. Share your voice. Let Devon County Council know that libraries are much more than book-lending: they’re vital community spaces.
ExCoL strongly supports a library system that reflects our collective ambition: a connected, literate, healthy, and creative Devon.
