Why low-income people have difficulty accessing to obtain public cultural services? Evidence from an empirical study on representative small and medium-sized cities

Purpose This article aims to provide reference for government departments and public cultural institutions in strengthening the provision of public cultural services for low-income groups, improving services methods and fostering their cultural awareness and cultural rights. Design/methodology/approach Evidence from an empirical study on representative small and medium-sized cities. Findings This paper defines the specific aspects of the difficulties faced by urban low-income people in obtaining public cultural services, and it is no longer limited to analyze the causes behind these difficulties from a specific perspective. Originality/value The difficulties faced by urban low-income people in obtaining public cultural services are mainly reflected in the following four aspects: external condition pressure, individual condition limitations, service supply difference and feedback mechanism failure.