What do the public want from libraries?

This research from Museums Libraries and Archives in England gets to the core of why people use libraries, why they don't, and what would get them through the door.

The guide is based on focus group information and a survey of 1,102 adults. 

The big findings:

• Libraries are loved and trusted andthe 'Public Library' brand is strong. But - awareness of their offer is low
• The public thinks that libraries are principally about books and reading
• Libraries should concentrate on motivating people to visit instead of trying to reduce barriers
• Users are not an homogenous group- they want different things
• Coffee shops on site would appealto both users and non-users
• Basics matter: customer service and book stock are the most important.