Public library visits and later-life health and well-being: evidence from a longitudinal study of older adults in Australia

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to examine the longitudinal associations between public library visits and multiple health and well-being outcomes in older adults. Subject and methods: We analysed data from over 12,000 (n range, 12,124–12,896) relatively healthy community-dwelling Australians aged 70+ years. We categorised public library visits as never, ≤ 3 times/month, and ≥ once/week. Using an outcome-wide analytical approach, we examined associations between public library visits and 44 outcomes across physical, cognitive/major health events, psychological, social, and behavioural domains. Most outcomes were assessed at ~2 years of follow-up, with extended follow-up for time-to-event outcomes (median duration range, 6–9 years). We performed gender-disaggregated regressions, adjusting for multiple covariates. Results: Participants were aged 70–95 years (mean 75.2 ± 4.3) at baseline, and 54.5% were women. More women than men reported visiting public libraries (70.6% vs 59.9%). Public library visits were associated with better physical and cognitive outcomes (e.g., reduced dementia risk), social well-being (e.g., lower social isolation in women), and healthier behaviours (e.g., increased fruit and vegetable intake) at follow-up. No associations were found with most psychological outcomes. Gender differences were observed: men had stronger associations with reduced disability and mortality over 7 years, while women showed associations with greater social well-being and health-promoting behaviours, and a higher fall risk ~2 years later. Conclusion: Public library visits were generally associated with improved health and well-being in older adults. As inclusive and trusted community institutions, libraries may represent a promising avenue for social engagement and health promotion within population-level public health strategies.