Journal article
Public library visits and later-life health and well-being: evidence from a longitudinal study of older adults in Australia
Journal of public health
10/02/2026
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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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 similar to 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 similar to 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.
Details
- Title
- Public library visits and later-life health and well-being: evidence from a longitudinal study of older adults in Australia
- Creators
- Htet Lin Htun - Monash UniversityAchamyeleh Birhanu Teshale - Monash UniversityAlice J. Owen - Monash UniversityJoanne Ryan - Monash UniversityMelissa Whitrow - Cancer Council SAJ. R. Baker - Australian Institute of BusinessRosanne Freak-Poli - Monash University
- Publication Details
- Journal of public health
- Publisher
- Springer Nature
- Number of pages
- 12
- Grant note
- Monash University
- Identifiers
- 991013355539702368
- Academic Unit
- Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Journal article