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 woman wearing a black and white zebra-patterned sweater and a long green skirt is browsing books on a shelf in a bookstore or library. Her hand is reaching out to select a book, while colorful books line the shelves around her.

National Year of Reading: "Couch to 5K for reading" app grows nationwide

Libraries across England are coming together to expand the Read On app, bringing its "Couch to 5K for reading" approach to new regions as part of the National Year of Reading 2026.
Person sitting on a sandy beach, reading a book while facing the sea, with a brightly coloured towel, a drink, and a beach bag nearby

Share your holiday reads

We're building a national list of must-read holiday books recommended by library staff and volunteers.
Librarian Amanda Jones stands behind a lectern displaying the Libraries Connected name and branding.

US librarian Amanda Jones addresses Libraries Connected annual seminar on professional values and intellectual freedom

Jones is known for her work supporting intellectual freedom and defending access to information.
Libraries Connected Award winners 2026

Libraries Connected Awards 2026 winners revealed

The Awards celebrate the achievements of library staff who have made an exceptional impact on their services, users and local communities.
Libraries Connected President Ed Jewell smiles into the camera. He is wearing a pair of glasses.

Reflecting on the Presidency: Confidence, community, and our libraries

Opinion

Ed Jewell

In his final blog as our President, Ed Jewell writes of a 'growing confidence in what our libraries can achieve'.
Portrait photo of Kate Mosse

Libraries Connected names Kate Mosse as Public Library Champion 2026

Celebrated author and literacy campaigner recognised for her longstanding support for public libraries
Isobel Hunter gives evidence to Education Committee on reading for pleasure

Isobel Hunter gives evidence to Education Committee on reading for pleasure

Libraries Connected Chief Executive Isobel Hunter MBE gave evidence to MPs this week as part of the Education Committee's inquiry into reading for pleasure.
A cake celebrating 120 years of Westhoughton Library.

A reassuring presence in a changing world: 120 years of Westhoughton Library

Opinion

Friends of Westhoughton Library

Westhoughton does what libraries do best, making people feel that knowledge, stories, and community belong to everyone.
A view of a room in the Klementinum Library in central Prague.

What I learnt at EBLIDA Conference 2026

Opinion

Isobel Hunter

Attending the EBLIDA Conference in Prague last month provided a timely reminder of the value of international library cooperation. Across Europe, libraries are grappling with many of the same challenges including sustainability, public trust, digital access, and their role in democratic society. Sharing ideas and practical approaches across borders helps us see both what we take for granted and where we might push further.

Portrait photo of James Pearson

Libraries Connected names James Pearson as next President

We're pleased to announce that James Pearson will be the next President of Libraries Connected.
Libraries Connected's new Chair Ben Holden and Chief Executive Isobel Hunter.

Public libraries are transformational – as Chair-elect I want this to be recognised

Opinion

Ben Holden

Ben Holden was recently elected Chair of Libraries Connected. Here he tells us more about his background and the aims of his Chairmanship.
Two people sitting at a table in a library, talking, with bookshelves behind them and pens, mugs and snacks on the table.

Know Your Neighbourhood evaluation: key findings at a glance

New evaluation shows how library‑led Know Your Neighbourhood projects boosted volunteering, reduced chronic loneliness and strengthened community connection.