Library Access

About

Library visits per person living within the library service area per year. The 2025 Annual Data Release used data from 2022 for this measure.

Libraries are a trusted community resource that provide access to digital and print media and foster belonging and participation in civic life. Public libraries have reduced place-based health inequities through programs offering free on-site services such as flu vaccines, stress management, health insurance application assistance and even community fridges to address food insecurity.1,2 Some public libraries offer financial literacy classes and library computers and internet connections enable patrons to search for employment. By offering free services, public libraries reduce barriers, especially for people with lower incomes.3-5

As a civic resource, libraries provide space to learn, stay informed, get connected and organize so people can advocate for community needs.6 Thus, the number of library visits per person in the library service area provides a measure of civic participation.  Some libraries preserve cultures by sharing local Indigenous knowledge and language7 and support immigrants and refugees who are adjusting to new communities. Public libraries may reduce the digital divide between older and younger users, as well as those with lower incomes, by encouraging use of computers, tablets and e-readers.8 

Societal rules impact access to libraries. Public libraries are mostly funded by local governments (~86%), with minimal resources from state and other funding sources.9 Local elected decision-makers and community advocates have the power to increase library access by ensuring libraries have enough money to support staffing, and maintain resources, collections, services and programs.10-12 Although racially segregated libraries legally ended after the Supreme Court ruling of Brown vs. Board of Education, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, many public libraries in formerly redlined, segregated neighborhoods and rural communities still struggle with limited funds.12,13 

Civic spaces, such as libraries, can have a positive impact on health equity when we invest intentionally and inclusively. Neglect or deliberate exclusion, whether through funding, censorship or other forms of exclusion, is detrimental to bringing the benefits of libraries to those who most need them. For example, in areas of longstanding discrimination and disinvestment in the U.S., like the Black Belt and Appalachia, library access is far less than the national average.14

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The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute Model of Health

Use the model to explore the measures of how long and how well we live and what shapes these trends. Select a measure in the diagram or browse the list of all measures.

Measures marked with an asterisk (*) are not included in summary calculations for Population Health and Well-being or Community Conditions.

Data and methods

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2025

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