Demonstrating the Value of Libraries Across Aotearoa
As trusted community hubs, libraries in Aotearoa New Zealand continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of the people they serve. The latest Community Impact Report provides compelling, evidence-based insights into how our libraries are used and the difference they are making in the lives of New Zealanders—socially, economically, culturally, and environmentally.
Survey Overview
Grounded in our Strategic Framework and structured around 12 key impact questions aligned with six national service outcomes, this report highlights the significant and diverse ways libraries influence both individuals and communities.
Library Use: A Snapshot of Demand and Diversity
Our survey began by asking people how they use their library.
As expected, borrowing physical items remains the core service, with the highest reported use (89.6%). This was followed by borrowing digital content (32.7%), and reading magazines and newspapers (29.4%)—confirming that access to information and entertainment remains central to the library experience.
However, libraries are now equally recognised as providers of essential digital and community services. For example:
- 28% of respondents used printing or scanning services.
- 24% accessed free Wi-Fi.
- Only 16% used public computers—suggesting digital equity efforts may be shifting toward mobile and personal device users.
Libraries are also increasingly operating as access points for other vital services:
- Just over 21% of users engaged with non-traditional community services such as justice of the peace sessions, health support, information centres, or council services.
- Lower use was reported for services like special events, study/work spaces, exhibitions, and creative spaces—indicating either limited availability or niche interest, and providing insight into areas for targeted growth or realignment.
Top Facilities Used
How often survey participants use the library (%)
Last time survey participants used the library (%)
Programmes and Activities in Libraries: Where Communities Connect
Among those who did participate in programmes, the top six activities reflect strong engagement with: Reference and information services, Cultural events, Author talks, Arts & crafts sessions, Storytime, and Hobby-based activities.
These areas represent where libraries are connecting deeply with communities—offering creative, educational, and social opportunities. They also offer direction for future programme development and resource investment.
By contrast, activities with lower engagement (<10%) included after-school programmes, parent/baby groups, digital skills classes, heritage course, writing workshops, CV assistance, financial and business support and emergency preparedness. These may represent either underserved groups or offerings with competing services elsewhere in the community.
Measuring Impact: How Libraries Change Lives
This survey centres around 12 key impact questions, each aligned with the six national service outcomes and organized into four impact areas: Social, Economic, Cultural, and Environmental.
Respondents rated each question on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 representing the highest impact. The average of these ratings produces an overall impact score, which serves as a useful benchmark for evaluating library performance.
Social Impact: A Place to Belong and Grow
Libraries excel in nurturing the heart of community life. An overwhelming 86.9% of respondents said libraries encouraged their love of reading—scoring a remarkable 4.5 out of 5 in impact. This passion for literacy is more than a personal pleasure; it lays the groundwork for lifelong learning and empowerment.
- 84.6% reported improved happiness and wellbeing (Impact Score: 4.4), affirming libraries as sanctuaries of mental and emotional support;
- Nearly 70% of users felt a stronger sense of belonging (Impact Score: 4.1), showing how libraries foster inclusion and connection;
- 38% said the library helped improve their literacy (Impact Score: 3.7);
- and a third felt more confident or independent (Impact Score: 3.8), while another third felt supported in their parenting journey (3.7), underscoring libraries’ role in building resilience and family wellbeing.
Yet the library’s influence is not only personal—it’s also deeply communal, providing inclusive, free access that reduces social inequities.
Economic Impact: Supporting Lifelong Learning
Libraries are key players in economic wellbeing through education and skills development.
- Almost half, 48%, of respondents expanded their study or learning opportunities through the library (Impact Score: 3.9);
- However, only 20% reported improvement in computer skills (Impact Score: 3.2), pointing to a critical opportunity: enhancing digital inclusion. In a world increasingly dependent on technology, libraries are well-placed to close the digital divide.
Cultural Impact: Celebrating Identity and Diversity
Libraries serve as bridges between cultures and across generations.
- 40% said the library helped them understand New Zealand’s cultural diversity (Impact Score: 3.6), reflecting libraries’ evolving role in fostering intercultural awareness;
- Although a smaller proportion of respondents, 22%, reported exploring their own heritage (Impact Score: 3.2), and 19% received support in Te Reo Māori (Impact Score: 3.0), these results point to opportunities for libraries to expand their impact by collaborating with cultural organizations and broadening their collections and programming.
Environmental Impact: Promoting Conscious Citizenship
While less prominent, libraries also influence environmental awareness.
- 32% of users said libraries helped them become more mindful of environmental issues (Impact Score: 3.7) showing potential for libraries to expand to expand their role in environmental education and sustainability.
Conclusion: Building on a Foundation of Impact
These scores serve as valuable benchmarks for tracking progress at both local and national levels, offering clear, measurable evidence that libraries are driving positive outcomes aligned with broader societal and strategic objectives.
The findings affirm what library leaders and patrons have long understood—libraries are not just places to borrow books; they are transformative institutions. They serve as community hubs, gateways to learning, access points for technology, cultural beacons, and inclusive spaces that promote wellbeing, connection, and opportunity.
As impact data continues to be gathered and analysed, it provides decision-makers with the insights needed to plan, prioritise, and invest with intention. The message is clear: with sustained support, libraries will continue to deliver exceptional value to the communities they serve.
Moreover, libraries are not static—they are adaptive, forward-looking institutions equipped to address 21st-century challenges, including digital inclusion, cultural equity, and environmental sustainability.
In a time of rapid social and technological change, libraries remain resilient and relevant—places where the power of impact is not only documented but profoundly experienced.