Libraries in West Sussex deliver over £200,000 in mental health and wellbeing benefits
West Sussex County Council Library Service turns 100 this year
Libraries across West Sussex are delivering nearly £220,000 worth of annual value by supporting mental health and wellbeing, according to a new report by the charity Libraries Connected.
The study highlights the impact of activities such as weekly arts and crafts sessions for over-65s, volunteering schemes, and initiatives aimed at reducing loneliness.
These services are shown to lessen pressure on health and social care by providing early, low-cost community support.
Councillor Duncan Crow, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Support, Fire and Rescue, said: “This report clearly shows that our libraries offer so much more than just books.
"Our library service plays a vital role in our local communities and acts as a lifeline for so many people.
"This study confirms what we have known for a long time in West Sussex – that our libraries are truly valuable and offer vital services that help people and communities fulfil their potential.”
The data for the study, which was supported by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, was collected during the summer of 2025 across West Sussex and 11 other library services in the South East.
Researchers calculated the monetary value of library-based activities such as improved wellbeing, NHS savings, and productivity gains.
Public libraries in West Sussex already offer craft activities like ‘Knit and Natter,’ social events including Board Games and Tea and Chat sessions, and volunteering opportunities.
Councillor Bob Lanzer, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: “It’s great to see the work of our libraries recognised in supporting our residents, in particular, older people and mental health.
"A key part of our communities, the council’s public health and libraries teams work closely together to deliver activities and campaigns for all ages within libraries to improve health outcomes and reduce health inequalities.”