Surprising benefits of visiting your local library

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Home
Healthy ageing
About healthy ageing
Find out what healthy ageing means and the changes you can make to stay independent for longer.
- Myths about ageing
  Rethink what you know about later life. Bust some common myths about ageing that could be holding you back.
- Inspiration
  Get inspired by real stories and videos from older people. See how others have taken healthy ageing into their own hands.
- Frequently asked questions
  Find answers to common questions about healthy ageing. Get clear on available tools and services.
Resources
Resources
Discover practical tips, exercises, and products to help you stay active and independent.
- Find healthy ageing articles
  Read articles backed by evidence to help you stay healthy and independent.
- Find exercise sheets
  Check out these printable exercises (with pictures) to help keep your mind and body strong.
- Find activities
  Connect with your community. Use this directory to find social activities near you.
- Find helpful tools
  Explore this directory of assistive products. They're selected by clinical experts to make life easier.
- Navigating life changes
  With ageing comes change. Get tailored resources to help you prepare for times of transition.
- I have a health condition or injury
- I'm downsizing or moving house
- I'm grieving
- I'm preparing for new grandchildren
- I'm retiring or retired
- I'd like general healthy ageing info
- More about life changes
- Everyday tips
  Take a look at practical ways to make everyday tasks easier around the house, or out and about.
- Explore tips
- Cultural resources
- First Nations resources
  Access resources made by, with, and for First Nations people.
- Italian resources
  Access resources made with and for Italian people.
- Resources in your language
  Find LiveUp resources in different languages.
Self-assessment quiz
Take our 5-minute quiz – get personalised suggestions for activities, products, and tips tailored to you.
Take the quiz
About
About LiveUp
Learn more about LiveUp. Discover our mission to help older people live well and stay independent.
- Friends of LiveUp
  Read about the peak bodies and organisations we work with to improve the lives of older people.
- Testimonials
  'I found LiveUp to be so uplifting and inspirational and I'm so glad I found it! I thoroughly recommend it to all my older friends.'
  See more testimonials
Contact

Not sure where to start? Call one of our friendly navigators who can help you.Call - 1800 951 971

Surprising benefits of visiting your local library | LiveUp

Your local library provides much more than books. It’s also a vital community hub with free safe spaces for work, study, and play.

Libraries have expanded what they offer too. Some examples include musical instruments, game consoles, bike repair kits, seeds, and child or dog toys.

Most libraries offer a range of programs and services. Of course, you can still browse books and find free entertainment.

Recognising your library's untapped potential can benefit your mental health. Getting involved can strengthen your sense of belonging within your community.

Free and equal access

Libraries provide free and equal access to information and resources. From the comfort of your home, you can also access many online resources. For example:

Books
Magazines and newspapers
Audiobooks
CDs and DVDs
Materials that can be used for education, entertainment, or personal growth

Libraries provide free access to computers and WiFi. Many libraries offer training programs and workshops to help you develop digital skills.

When you can’t get to a library

Libraries can keep you connected in other ways when you can’t get out and about. They can provide access to technology, resources, and services.

Libraries have online platforms to access books, media, programs, courses, and resources.
There may be book bundles and grab bags if you can’t browse the shelves.
There are outreach services with mobile libraries, pop-up libraries, window visits, and drop-in events. Some libraries also partner with local organisations like food banks.
Libraries with mobile services offer WiFi, laptops, and telehealth access.

A community hub

Libraries play an important role in community engagement, social inclusion, and diversity. They have traditionally been the go-to place for local history and genealogy research. This hasn’t changed, but now you may also find your local library is organising and hosting:

Book and media clubs
Author talks
Workshops to teach various skills
Book and film clubs
Film screenings
Art exhibitions
Boardgame and hobbyist events
Children’s services and school holiday programs
Social events

Why you’ll enjoy visiting a library

Libraries use new technology to meet growing community needs. However, people still enjoy visiting libraries for the social aspects and community interaction.

Most libraries are well-designed and welcoming spaces that make you feel good. They’re anchors of community life and great spaces to meet new people. Free access to computers, WiFi, and safe spaces are other bonuses.

Libraries contribute to the idea that the community is a good place to be. They enhance the social and cultural health of the community.

Find your nearest library

To find your nearest library service, use the links below:

More helpful information

If you need more information, take the LiveUp quiz or get in touch with one of our helpful team on 1800 951 971.

You can find more tips and advice by following the links below:

References

Karki, M., El Asmar, M.L., Sasco, E.R. et al. (2024). Public libraries to promote public health and wellbeing: a cross-sectional study of community-dwelling adults. BMC Public Health 24, 1226. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-024-18535-5

How to use this information

LiveUp provides free information to help you make informed decisions about your health. This information is for general and educational purposes only, is not intended to provide a comprehensive guide, and does not replace medical advice. Everyone is different, so some of these tips may work better for you than others. You should use your own judgment and seek medical advice when applying this information to yourself, to determine if it is suitable in your circumstances. Your use of, or reliance on, this information is solely at your own risk. Independent Living Assessment Incorporated is not responsible or liable for any injury, loss, or damage caused as a result of your use of, or reliance on, this information.