We are delighted to announce that our Chief Executive Isobel Hunter had been awarded an MBE services to public libraries in this year's Queen's Honours list.

Isobel joined Libraries Connected in 2018 and has been instrumental in establishing the organisation as a leading advocate for public libraries and in helping libraries to navigate the Coronavirus pandemic.

Julie Oldham, Bolton Council’s former head of libraries and museums, and our previous universal health offer lead, has been recognised for her tireless work as a champion of libraries for over 40 years. She has been awarded an OBE to add to the MBE she received in 2002 for her services to librarianship.

Two of our regional chairs have also been awarded a BEM:

• Peter William Gaw, Chief Executive Officer, Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries. For services to libraries and culture
• Janet Holden, Head of Libraries and Information, Norfolk County Council Library and Information Service. For services to public libraries.

Professor Steven John Broomhead, from Chorley, has been awarded an OBE for services to Public Libraries. Currently interim chief executive at Warrington Borough Council, in 2018 he was appointed to head up the Libraries Taskforce, a group responsible for providing leadership and support to libraries across the country.

Librarians who also received a BEM this year are:

• Michelle Alford, Library Services Director, Hull Culture and Leisure. For services to public libraries.
• Sarah Smith, Libraries Development Manager, London Borough of  Brent. For services to public libraries.
• Stephen James Walters, Principal Library Manager, Gateshead Library Service. For services to public libraries.

And finally, Andrew Bentley, Chief Executive, Storyhouse in Chester which houses the innovative city centre library received a BEM.

We would like to congratulate everyone on their wonderful achievements and for their services to libraries.