Public libraries in the recession: the librarian's axiom

Abstract

Purpose

This paper outlines the results of research analysing the impact of the recession of 2008‐2009 on public libraries in the Midlands region of the UK. Specifically, it explores the validity of James' “librarian's axiom” in this context, which proposes that use of public libraries increases during a recession.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of usage data from two public library authorities gathered through a specially designed questionnaire was supported by interviews with library staff from four authorities, working at both operational and strategic levels.

Findings

The results show that the credit crunch had an impact on use of public libraries in the Midlands, thus supporting James' axiom. The principal finding is that more people used libraries during the recession, particularly for job‐seeking activities, advice and training. It also emerged that public libraries recognised that the credit crunch provided them with an opportunity to promote their free and low‐cost activities, as well as develop new services to respond to the information needs of library users in a recession.

Research limitations/implications

Only four library services participated in the research; a larger sample would have provided a more complete picture of the impact of the recession on public libraries. There were also issues with data collection at library authority level, which meant that not all data sets were complete.

Practical implications

The paper provides stakeholders within the sector with valuable evidence of the impact of public libraries on vulnerable members of the community during a time of national crisis. It also suggests areas for improvement including strengthening links with relevant local organisations.

Originality/value

This paper reports the first UK‐based empirical study of the impact of the recent recession on public libraries.

Citation

Child, R. and Goulding, A. (2012), "Public libraries in the recession: the librarian's axiom", Library Review, Vol. 61 No. 8/9, pp. 641-663. https://doi.org/10.1108/00242531211292123