Libraries as Civic Spaces

Libraries can be places for community wellbeing and inter-generational connection.

London thrives on connection and community, but the city faces evolving challenges from an ageing population to responding and adapting to a changing climate.

Part of the solution can be found in local libraries - not just as hubs for accessing culture but as welcoming spaces helping to connect people.

Connection and accessing information through trusted spaces, such as libraries, are key  to combating social isolation of vulnerable people and protecting them from climate impacts such as extreme heat.

Here at the Greater London Authority (GLA), we run two parallel initiatives – Cool Spaces and Dementia-Friendly Venues – that, when deployed together, can help London libraries support social connection for everyone, during summer months and beyond.

Cool Spaces address the increasing need for accessible, cooler than outdoors areas during periods of hot weather. They provide respite and a place to sit, relax and drink water.

Signing up as a Cool Space enables Londoners to find you through this map, and it takes just a few minutes.

Becoming a GLA Dementia-Friendly Venue means actively creating an environment where people living with dementia, along with their families and carers, feel understood, safe, and connected.

The free self-accreditation process takes you through a series of questions to ensure your organisation has considered improvements to embed dementia-friendly approaches at all levels. You’ll get access to support for the accreditation process, and appear on this map once accredited.

In the overlap between both Cool Spaces and the Dementia Friendly Venues Charter, lies a unique opportunity for libraries to embrace their role as places for community wellbeing and inter-generational connection.

During hot weather, a person living with dementia and their carers can find respite from the heat as well as staff trained to understand their specific needs, ensuring a stress-free and welcoming experience. Conversely, other users, such as young families, seeking refuge from the heat will benefit from the clear navigation and welcoming atmosphere that a dementia-friendly approach aims to foster.

By embracing both initiatives, a library is shining a light on its brilliant services, and developing stronger connections with its community. It is reaching to new users and linking with partners across the borough who are working on how to be better prepared to a changing climate. This also enables development of stronger connections with communities and understanding of their vulnerabilities and needs.

For more information, including explanatory videos, criteria and steps to accreditate, visit our Cool Spaces and Dementia Friendly Venues Charter pages.