By Megan, 17

Libraries used to be the heart of every community, a place to study, read, and meet up with friends. But for many young people today, they’re more of an afterthought than a must-visit spot. With phones, social media, and easy access to information online, the idea of spending time in a library seems outdated.

So, what’s keeping us away? And more importantly, what would bring us back?

“Libraries Just Don’t Feel Inviting” Says Riya, 17.

When you think of a library, what comes to mind? For most young people, it’s rows of dusty books, strict silence rules, and old-fashioned desks. It’s hardly the kind of place you’d want to hang out.

“Libraries feel like they’re stuck in the past,” says Riya. “It just doesn’t feel like a space made for us.”

And she’s not alone. Many young people feel that libraries haven’t kept up with the times. They’re designed for quiet reading, but in a world where we’re used to working in coffee shops, chatting in group study sessions, and having everything at our fingertips, the traditional library experience just doesn’t cut it anymore.

“I Can Get Everything Online” Says Daniel, 17

This is the biggest issue. Why spend ages searching for a book when you can Google the same information in seconds?

“If I need to research something, I just look it up on my phone,” says Dan. “I don’t need to go to a library and flick through books for answers.”

For schoolwork, most of us are already using online resources, and for reading, Kindles and audiobooks are often more convenient. Libraries just don’t seem like an essential part of life anymore.

It’s not just about studying, young people want spaces where they can hang out, work together, and feel comfortable. Libraries, with their strict “no talking” rules and formal layouts, don’t encourage that.

“If I want to study, I’d rather go to a café with my mates,” says Riya. “At least I can have a coffee and chat without getting shushed.”

So, What Would Make Libraries Better?

Even though most young people don’t go to libraries, that doesn’t mean we don’t want them to exist. In fact, when asked, loads of us had ideas on how to make them better.

More Comfortable Spaces, A cosy, relaxed atmosphere would make libraries feel more welcoming. Think bookshops with soft chairs and plants.
“I’d love a library with bean bags, sofas, and warm lighting,” says Jess, 17. “Right now, they feel too formal and cold.”

Coffee Shops & Chill Zones, “If libraries had a café inside, I think I’d go,” says Kai, 16. “No one wants to sit somewhere for hours without a drink or snack.”
Adding a small café or vending area would turn libraries into a place where people want to spend time, not just somewhere they go because they have to.

Study Pods & Group Spaces, Instead of total silence, libraries could have different zones, some for quiet reading, others for discussion and group work.
“There should be sections where you can talk and work together,” says Millie, 17. “Right now, it’s like you can’t even breathe too loud.”

Better Technology & Creative Areas, “I’d use the library if it had better computers, gaming areas, or spaces for making stuff—like podcasts or videos,” says Kai, 16.
Young people don’t just want books, we want places where we can create, edit, and explore new media. Libraries could have tech stations, podcast studios, or even VR headsets to make learning more interactive.

Events & Activities, “If libraries had book clubs, writing workshops, or gaming nights, I’d definitely go,” says Jahni, 17.

Libraries don’t have to be just about books. Hosting regular events, like film screenings, open mic nights, or coding workshops, could make them feel like community spaces rather than just places to borrow things.

Libraries Need to Change… Or They’ll Be Forgotten

Right now, libraries are fading into the background. They’re still there, but most young people aren’t using them. If they don’t evolve, they risk becoming completely irrelevant.

But if they adapt, if they become places where people want to be, rather than places they have to go, then maybe libraries can make a comeback.

Until then, most of us will stick to our phones.

This story was written by a young person as part of the Headliners Young Journalist programme. This project was made possible by the Million Hours Fund.