David Whittle

Noon - 4:00pm

Email the studio

Teddy Swims

The Door

Listen Live Podcasts

Harrogate has the most used library in North Yorkshire

Friday, 11 August 2023 07:00

Harrogate Library topped a list of the most used libraries in North Yorkshire last year.

Harrogate has the most used library in North Yorkshire Harrogate Library topped a list of the most used libraries in North Yorkshire last year. According to figures published by North Yorkshire Council, there were 237,100 books and e-books taken out at the library on Victoria Avenue during the 2022/23 financial year as well as 177,629 visits by residents. The figures show a big jump from the previous two years, which were disrupted by covid lockdowns and restrictions. In 2020/21, the library had 47,809 visits and in 2021/22 there were 122,409. Last year, Harrogate Library had more than 50% the number of visitors than the county’s second most popular library, which was Scarborough with 114,829 visits. [caption id="attachment_74820" align="aligncenter" width="750"] Harrogate Library has been popular in the past year.[/caption] Visitor numbers at other libraries in the former Harrogate district area include Knaresborough with 110,191, Ripon with 73,428 and Starbeck with 18,676. Embsay-with-Eastby Community Library was the least used library in North Yorkshire last year with 2,841 visits, however the volunteer-run library near Skipton is only open 9 hours a week. In 2015, the running of 31 libraries in the county was handed to volunteers in the face of mounting financial pressures brought on by austerity. In this model, the council’s library service continues to provide the infrastructure including books and public IT, as well as some paid staff support to ensure consistency across the county. The community libraries account for just under 40% of active library users and deliver on average 50 per cent of the total business for book lending and computer access. By Thomas Barrett, Local Democracy Reporter Read more local stories from Your Harrogate here.

More from Local News

Harrogate Town add two new faces

Ahead of their league two clash with Gillingham this weekend (Saturday 24th January), Harrogate Town have announced two new signings.
Harrogate Denture Clinic announce sponorship for local girls football team

Harrogate Denture Clinic has announced a new sponsorship agreement with Pannal Sports Junior Football Club.
Above inflation rent rise for North Yorkshire council houses

Council house rents in North Yorkshire are set for an above-inflation increase to pay for improvements and more affordable homes.
Ripon amputee injured in horror tractor crash to 'hop' up Whitby's famous steps

An inspirational young woman who lost her right leg and part of her pelvis after being run over by a tractor will take on Whitby's iconic 199 steps to raise money for people with life-changing injuries.
Slingsby Gin brand listed for sale following administration

Slingsby Gin, one of the UK's best-known gin brands, has been placed on the market following the administration of its owner, Spirit of Harrogate.
Knaresborough Town Council launches search for Town Development Manager

Knaresborough Town Council has launched recruitment for a new Town Development Manager - a key role that will lead the economic growth and commercial vitality of the historic market town.
Luxury bathroom retailer opens Harrogate showroom

Luxury bathroom retailer Nôsa has opened its doors on Albert Street in Harrogate.
Harrogate Town defender leaves club after contract expires

Harrogate Town defender Kyle Jameson has left the club after the expiration of his contract.
Duchy Hospital expert to hold free prostate health event

A health expert from Duchy Hospital are set to host a free public event in Harrogate aimed at improving understanding of prostate health and testing.
Festive tractor run raises £50,000 for charity as grand total is revealed

The grand total of last year’s ‘Rudolph’s Run’ has been revealed - and it’s cleared the £50,000 mark.
Future uncertain for Harrogate footwear brand

The future of a long-established Harrogate retailer has been thrown into doubt after a national rescue deal left dozens of stores facing uncertainty.
New independent coffee shop opens in Knaresborough

A new independent coffee shop has opened its doors in Knaresborough.
Lightwater Valley reveals reopening date

Lightwater Valley Family Adventure Park has confirmed it will reopen to visitors for a new season on Saturday 28th March.
Harrogate teachers brave blizzard conditions in latest running challenge

Two teachers from a Harrogate independent prep school have completed their latest running challenge – exactly 12 months after they tackled an iconic half marathon in Norway.
Conservative councillors take swipes at Reform amid budget talks

Senior North Yorkshire Conservative councillors took veiled - and not so veiled - swipes at Reform while discussing their authority’s finances at a key meeting.
Date revealed for Knaresborough Tractor Run

The date has been confirmed for this year's Knaresborough Tractor Run, which is set to return on Sunday 8th March.
Yorkshire Air Ambulance appoints new CEO

Yorkshire Air Ambulance Charity has announced the appointment of Kathryn Marsden OBE as its new Chief Executive Officer
Council to increase council tax by maximum after £43m "wallop" from government

Council chiefs say they have no choice but to raise council tax by the maximum allowed after receiving a £43m "wallop" in cuts from the government.
Harrogate dad takes on 40,000-mile yacht race for bereavement charity

A Harrogate man is taking on a 40,000-mile yacht race to give back to the charity that supported his son through the loss of his mother.
Harrogate BID backs return of town's popular Restaurant Week

Harrogate BID is supporting the return of Harrogate Restaurant Week, which will take place from Monday 16th to Sunday 22nd February 2026.