Library Closures Could Affect Young Mums

Library closures could be contributing to what's being called 'information poverty' among young first-time mothers.

It is being claimed that they struggle to gain access to advice on health, social care and education.

Researchers at Strathclyde university are teaming up with charities, including Barnardos, to make sure new mums are not disadvantaged by missing out on vital information.

Sixteen libraries in Fife are at risk of closure - a consultation on the issue ends this weekend.

Cara Jardine, a Research Associate in Strathclyde’s Department of Computer and Information Sciences, said: "There are complex, and as yet not fully understood, access barriers and internalised behavioural barriers. The former are influenced by issues around the ‘digital divide’ and information literacy issues and the latter by social structures and norms.

"We believe these barriers put young first time mothers, and in turn their children, at risk of living a disengaged existence in an impoverished information world.

"This study aims to advance our understanding of information poverty and to contribute significantly to the important discussion of how public information providers can support and empower young first time mothers in seeking information. We also aim to help providers develop new services that are appropriate for young first time mothers."