'Library use and children's reading skills tied together,' finds study

Children who use their local library are twice as likely to be above-average readers, research suggests.

The study reveals a strong link between library use and a pupil's reading achievement and enjoyment.

The National Literacy Trust report, based on a survey of more than 17,000 children aged eight to 16, reveals that almost two-thirds (64.5 per cent) of those who use the library are reading above the expected level for their age.

For non-library users, this figure is just 35.5 per cent.

In comparison, some 63.3 per cent of those who do not go to the library are reading below the expected level, while for young library users this figure is 36.7 per cent.

The findings have been released to coincide with Save Our Libraries day, when communities across the country are campaigning to save their libraries from heavy cuts.

The research shows that young library users are also more likely to enjoying reading and read outside of class every day. In total, almost half (44 per cent) of the children surveyed said they used their public library.

Jonathan Douglas, director of the National Literacy Trust said: "Our research shows just how important a role libraries play in supporting literacy.

"In the UK today, one in six people struggles to read, write and communicate, which can affect their health, confidence and employability.

"The National Literacy Trust are encouraging everyone to show how passionately they feel about the importance of literacy and libraries."