Hillingdon presents a striking paradox in cultural access. While the borough has shown positive growth in library provision (0.17 rate of change 2017-2025 compared to London's -0.06 average), tying with Enfield for the highest number of libraries in London, these facilities remain financially inaccessible to many residents. Our analysis reveals Hillingdon as London's second least affordable borough for library access when measured against average local incomes.
This disparity reflects broader socio economic divides in the borough, where relative affluence in areas like Ruislip contrasts with financial pressures in Hayes and Harlington. The council has attempted to address this through initiatives like the Hillingdon Cultural Compact, which partners with local organisations to improve outreach. However, persistent transport gaps and the borough's sprawling geography continue to limit access for lower-income residents, particularly in peripheral estates. While Hillingdon's library expansion is commendable, true cultural equity will require targeted programming and subsidies to ensure these facilities serve all communities, not just those who can afford to use them.