Library Activation
Transforming underused spaces into active, connected community hubs
The Library Activation initiative has transformed libraries across Essex into vibrant, multi purpose community hubs by introducing physical activity opportunities alongside traditional library services.
By creatively maximising underutilised library spaces, the programme has enabled residents to access inclusive activities - particularly seated or chair‑based exercise sessions - delivered by locally trusted organisations. These sessions are intentionally designed to support both movement and social connection, often including a ‘stay and chat’ offer with refreshments, helping to reduce isolation and loneliness for those who may struggle to access other community provision.
During the winter months, many libraries integrated these activities into their Warm Welcomes offer, giving residents access to heated, safe spaces with WiFi, hot drinks, books and community support at a time when the cost‑of‑living crisis continues to challenge household finances. By placing physical activity at the heart of a familiar, local setting, the initiative has made movement more accessible and removed barriers for those who may not feel comfortable in traditional sport or leisure environments.
Active Essex has played a pivotal coordinating and enabling role in the development and delivery of the programme:
- Using place based insight and strong relationships with community partners, Active Essex identified opportunities to better utilise unallocated resources by aligning them with the needs of local communities.
- Connected libraries with suitably skilled instructors and locally trusted organisations able to deliver seated or chair based activities that were inclusive, safe and tailored to local audiences.
- Helped libraries strengthen their identity as community assets while supporting residents to build physical activity into their weekly routine.
These outcomes contribute directly to the Active Essex Implementation Plan priorities, including activating community spaces, promoting inclusive physical activity, and strengthening the use of trusted local venues to support resident wellbeing.
The success of the initiative has been underpinned by a wide‑ranging partnership effort. Local libraries have provided the physical spaces and day‑to‑day operational support needed to run sessions effectively, while locally trusted organisations have delivered high‑quality, inclusive activities that meet the needs of diverse groups. Active Essex has served as a central connector, ensuring resources were targeted appropriately and relationships were well‑supported. Community groups, volunteers and local authorities, including teams working on Winter Hub programmes, have worked together to enhance engagement and embed the offer within wider wellbeing strategies.
Key Learnings
It's important to take time to reflect and understand the learnings from work undertaken, to focus on ways to improve in the future.
Adaptation
Clear coordination was needed to repurpose library space without disrupting core services.
Outreach
Trusted LTOs were key to targeted outreach that built confidence among new audiences.
Timing
Winter Hubs offered a timely way to introduce warm, social indoor activities reducing isolation.
Early ripple effects are already beginning to surface, although some remain in the process of being explored. Questions are emerging around whether the initiative has influenced how libraries view their role in health and wellbeing, whether new partnerships have grown from this work, and whether other community venues are considering replicating the model. There are also indications that footfall may be increasing beyond activity sessions and that participants are benefiting from signposting to wider health and wellbeing support, although further data is still being gathered. These early signals suggest that the initiative may not only activate spaces but also shift the role of libraries within the broader community wellbeing ecosystem.
Looking ahead, the future development of Library Activation offers significant potential. As libraries continue to host activity sessions and community relationships deepen, there is scope to expand the model, explore additional forms of inclusive activity and strengthen pathways from library‑based movement into broader community support offers. The programme has demonstrated that libraries (trusted, familiar and accessible spaces) can play a meaningful role in creating healthier, more connected communities, particularly during periods of vulnerability such as the winter months.
