Extended access libraries - A solution for increased access to library services

By project PROXIMITIES

Published on 13 February 2025

Sweden

Västsverige

Varberg

About this good practice

Extended access libraries is a model where libraries offer extended hours and access to their resources even when staff are not present. This means that visitors can use the library early in the morning, late in the evening, and on weekends, making it more accessible to everyone. The libraries are not only used to borrow and return books, they are also used by students as a place to study.

To ensure safety and order, technical solutions such as surveillance cameras and entry systems with library cards are often used. This model promotes increased use of library resources and strengthens its role as a central meeting place in the community.

To further increase accessibility to library services, the Municipality has also invested in bookmobiles. These mobile libraries reach areas where it might otherwise be difficult to access a physical library, allowing more people to access books and other library services.

The bookmobiles also help reduce loneliness and provide a social moment for those who visit them. By combining extended access libraries with bookmobiles, the municipality can offer a comprehensive and flexible library service that effectively meets the needs of its residents.

Expert opinion

The "Extended Access Libraries" model presented in this good practice is very much in line with EU values and policies. It promotes digital inclusion, social equality, access to lifelong learning, and regional cohesion—all of which are core priorities in the EU's 2021–2027 programming period. Moreover, it embodies the EU’s broader shift toward innovative, inclusive, and citizen-centered public services. The EU Cohesion Policy supports reducing disparities between regions. Implementing extended-access libraries in less-developed areas supports equal access to public services, thus enhancing territorial cohesion and local development. By enabling local engagement and reducing the need to travel to distant urban centers for library access, these initiatives indirectly support sustainable local communities. Libraries often double as community meeting spaces, supporting social infrastructure. This is an excellent good practice, which can be fairly easily replicated in other regions and cities.

Magda Michaliková

Works at Interreg Europe Policy Learning Platform

Resources needed

To operate extended access libraries, technical equipment such as surveillance cameras, entry systems with library cards, and possibly self-service machines are needed. To operate bookmobiles, specially adapted vehicles as well as drivers and librarians to manage the bookmobile and assist visitors.

Evidence of success

More open libraries have definitely increased service in peripheral and rural areas. Increased visitors during extended access periods and visitors emphasizing that the accessibility of 7 am and 10 pm that made it possible for them to come to the libaries with a lending yearly around 400,000 loans.

Potential for learning or transfer

By offering extended hours and unstaffed libraries, accessibility to library services is increased, allowing residents to use the library at times that suit them best. This is particularly valuable for those with irregular work hours or other commitments. It also makes it possible to have libraries in more locations closer to where people live.
To operate extended access libraries, technical solutions such as surveillance cameras and entry systems with library cards have been implemented. These technologies ensure the safety and order of the library even when staff are not present.