LIBRARIES have been voted the most popular cultural venue in a survey of West Midlands’ residents.

Aimed at exploring how people experience art and culture, the survey showed libraries scored the highest, followed by theatre, art galleries and museums.

The survey took place during a 24 hour period and took its findings from 2,303 people from across the area.

When asked about their participation in the arts, 72 per cent of those surveyed said they read a book in the 24 hour period, while just more than half watched a television drama.

Dudley Councillor Hilary Bills, cabinet member responsible for libraries, said: “The results of the 24-hour culture survey highlight the value people place on their libraries and reading books as part of their everyday lives.

“This positive news follows the fantastic results showing an increase in library use, which is reaching up to almost 23,000 people visiting Dudley borough libraries each week.

“It shows how much people use their libraries for access to information, borrowing books, reading and learning, as well as a place to go for a multitude of events and activities.”

The survey was commissioned and organised by 22 arts and culture organisations across the West Midlands.

For more information about library services and activities across Dudley borough visit www.dudley.gov.uk/libraries