News

The latest news, updates and opinion from Libraries Connected.
If you’re a journalist please contact the Libraries Connected press team: media@librariesconnected.org.uk

A group of people sit talking at a table in a library.

Build connections in your library this Loneliness Awareness Week

Opinion

Hannah Beatrice

Libraries are invited to create gentle, welcoming spaces for reflection and connection.
A man pushes a pushchair in a library.

The Libraries Connected Presidency: Stepping forward with confidence

Opinion

Ed Jewell

As nominations open for the next President of Libraries Connected, the incumbent considers the demands and rewards of the role.
The outside of Horbury Library and Town Hall.

Libraries at the heart of community celebrations: The case of Horbury Library

Opinion

Carole Knowles

Horbury Library celebrated its 120th birthday this year.
Anna Brader is seen holding a children's book.

Libraries on a SEND mission in North East Lincolnshire

Opinion

Anna Brader

Lincs Inspire libraries are committed to ensuring inclusive, welcoming spaces for SEND children and adults.
An ice rink in a library.

A year of transformation and creativity in Wigan Libraries

Opinion

Craig Jones

Funding has enabled Leigh Library to act as both quiet space and performance venue.
Children dressed in orange listen to a storytime in a library.

Social value: Measuring the true impact of libraries

Opinion

Chad Bentley

Social value is a way to measure value that goes beyond the monetary and the financial.
A female customer asks for advice at a library information desk.

'Look to your team': A message for libraries in 2026

Opinion

Ed Jewell

Ed Jewell outlines his hopes for libraries in 2026 and looks back on 2025.
A blood pressure monitor.

Libraries: Helping save lives with blood pressure monitors

Opinion

Beth Harris

Libraries Unlimited has been working closely with NHS Devon on the 'One Devon' initiative.
The inside of a public library showing wooden desks and chairs.

Kathryn Harrison reflects on a life in libraries

Opinion

Kathryn Harrison

'The success of the library service depends on all the players involved', Kathryn says.
Image shows the Makerspace at Hull Central Library.

Skills bootcamps in Hull Libraries: How to grow creative talent

Opinion

Sarah Shiels

Demand for digital confidence is increasing amongst library staff.
A library van from Kent.

Kent's Home Library Service: Connecting the vulnerable and isolated

Opinion

Lindsay Prestage

The service forms a crucial connection for people who find it difficult or impossible to get to a library.
A young man works at a laptop in a library.

Ian Anstice reflects on 15 years of Public Libraries News

Opinion

Ian Anstice BEM

Anstice says public libraries remain 'amazing places that give free space and knowledge to all'.