UK think tank the Cultural Policy Unit (CPU) has proposed giving all UK newborns a lifelong library card to boost literacy rates among children and into adulthood.
Its proposal means that membership would be linked directly to registrations of birth, meaning library cards would be waiting for newborns at their local library. Currently, parents have to sign children up online and bring proof of address or an ID to a library.
Isobel Hunter, chief executive of Libraries Connected, told The Bookseller: “This important new policy report shows that public libraries are engines of social mobility, with a critical role in supporting children and families from birth. Libraries are a low cost, high impact service – investing now will save money in the long term and help all children thrive for the start.
“There are many excellent examples of library services working closely with maternity teams, early years settings, health visitors, family hubs and schools to help children build strong foundational skills. With investment and vision, we can replicate that right across the country, helping to close the opportunity gap in every community.”
The CPU’s plan would include a National Library Card that would give every citizen of the UK access to libraries. The CPU said the proposal aims to make reading a habit for more children, and give parents parenting support as well as community and cultural experiences at libraries.