Revoe Library adds £9.5m economic and social value to its community

One of Blackpool’s smallest libraries has been shown to generate huge economic and social value for local residents, according to a new report.

A report shared by Libraries Connected reveals that Revoe Library, creates an estimated £9.5 million in economic and social value each year, giving back almost £70.00 in value for every £1.00 invested.

Economic and social value measures the value of a service to its community, from cost savings to improved wellbeing. It estimates the financial value of what libraries provide, as well as the savings they generate for other public services.

Revoe library offers residents a wealth of valuable support and resources, including free access to online tools and support services, education opportunities, and a range of wellbeing and family-focused activities.

The research was carried out by the libraries team with support from Libraries Connected, the University of East Anglia and members of the Revoe community, funded through the Blackpool Researching Together seed funding grant.

Blackpool Researching Together is a Blackpool Council scheme known nationally as the Health Determinants Research Collaboration (HDRC) - set up to enable local authorities to use research and evidence to make better decisions.

The HDRC uses the everyday experiences of local residents to help shape how council and health services are planned and delivered. The aim is to improve health outcomes, especially for people facing the biggest challenges.

Using the EVOLS (Economic Value of Libraries) tool, developed by the University of East Anglia, the report measured how much Revoe Library benefits the local community. As part of the research, the team organised focus groups and surveys with residents - many of whom rely on Revoe Library for daily life.

In a time when so many services have moved online, libraries continue to be a crucial support, especially for residents at high risk of digital exclusion, as highlighted by the Digital Exclusion Risk Index (DERI) scale, developed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.

Of those surveyed, 13 out of 15 said visiting the library helps with loneliness and their overall health. Many people use the space for mental‑health support, wellbeing information, and self‑help books.

One person, recently diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, used the Reading Well book collection to better understand their new diagnosis and how they might look after themselves.

Social activities were highlighted as especially important, offering community, routine and confidence - particularly for people who had struggled to socialise due to mental health issues or loss of a loved one.

Anyone can join a library for free. With a library card, books, e-books and audiobooks can be borrowed for free. There are eight libraries in Blackpool, and the council is committed to keeping them all open and serving Blackpool residents.

Cllr Jo Farrell, Blackpool Council Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing, said: “Libraries are a lifeline for many residents. They provide practical support, a welcoming space and access to services that many residents rely on every day.

“We are committed to investing in our libraries so they can continue to be a place of reading, learning and community for many years to come”.