Making the library welcoming

We know that when someone comes into the library, as a regular user or on their first visit, they want to feel welcome and comfortable – that there is a place in the library for them.

Children and young people – and often their parents and carers – may feel particularly unsure on that first visit, especially if all they have heard about libraries are those stereotype stories about 'ssh!' and intimidating shelves of books.

This section gives you some ideas and things to think about to help you get that welcoming message across.

Even if your budget is low and your buildings are old and impractical, here are suggestions for ways round and through those barriers.