In particular, it is to attract to learning those who have avoided it for most of their lives and those who are likely to. This challenge has always been at the core of the public library service. Indeed, it reflects the main purpose for the establishment of public libraries in 1850. Public libraries are uniquely placed to offer unparalleled cradle to the grave support for lifelong learning. There are 4,187 public libraries in the UK, of which 625 are mobile libraries, plus almost 20,000 service points in hospitals, prisons, old people's homes etc.
Young people are among the heaviest users of public libraries.
Locally, library use broadly reflects the social make up of communities, with a slight over representation of social classes C1, C2 and D relative to the overall population. They provide a non-threatening environment for the reluctant learner. Public libraries are key players in the Government's literacy and numeracy initiatives. Many adults find that the public library is their preferred place for learning. A 1998 MORI report on Attitudes to Learning asked adults where they learned best.