New EU Report: Public Libraries Must Be Recognised as Essential Infrastructure
A new EU report, Strengthening Europe through Public Libraries, highlights the many ways public libraries help people and communities thrive. Far more than places to *just* study or borrow books, libraries support learning, strengthen democracy, promote inclusion and provide trusted spaces where everyone is welcome.
Public libraries combat declining literacy and support lifelong learning […]. Libraries provide devices, training and guidance on emerging technologies such as AI, while promoting media literacy to counter disinformation.
They are part of democracy’s core infrastructure, offering free and safe spaces for knowledge, debate and the development of democratic competencies, while serving as access points to culture and heritage.
Economically, libraries provide business support, job-search resources and financial literacy training. Environmentally, they promote sustainability through seed libraries, repair cafés and events focused on the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In the health sector, they cooperate with healthcare services and host well-being programmes.
As community hubs, libraries reduce loneliness, integrate newcomers and empower vulnerable groups.
They have been vital in stimulating urban renewal with iconic multifunctional buildings, while also fostering social cohesion in rural areas with mobile services and outreach programmes.
In times of crisis, war or natural disaster, libraries provide essential social infrastructure by responding to local community needs, offering information, shelter and spaces for reflection and recovery.
The report is based on evidence gathered by 36 experts from 25 EU Member States through an Open Method of Coordination (OMC) working group established by the Council of the European Union. It offers one of the clearest Europe-wide pictures yet of the impact public libraries have on people’s lives and on society as a whole.
The report also calls on governments and policymakers to make better use of public libraries in addressing today’s biggest challenges. It highlights where libraries can make the greatest difference, shares inspiring examples from across Europe, and sets out practical recommendations to help libraries maximise their impact in the years ahead.
The report explores the evolving functions of libraries through four metaphors for the library and seven roles for library professionals, illustrating their adaptability as they increasingly evolve into accessible, multifunctional community spaces.
The seven key roles libraries play in their communities — Community Builder, Storyteller, Guide, Facilitator, Protector, Catalyst, and Motivator — are brought to life through seven initiatives participating in The Europe Challenge 2025/26.
Watch the short films below to meet the libraries and communities behind them.
