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 female librarian sits at a desk working on a computer.

Libraries Connected welcomes English public library dataset publication

This is the first time Arts Council England and library services have undertaken this type of data collection.
A young man works at a laptop in a library.

Libraries must be central to government's youth investment plans

Libraries already play a vital role in supporting young people.
A blood red sunset

Public libraries as 'cool spaces'

Libraries are again offering vital respite from the sun this summer.
A Know Your Neighbourhood group meets indoors at Barnsley for a garden party.

‘Better than a bag of gold’: Know Your Neighbourhood Fund extended for a year

This extension is recognition of the success the Fund has had in creating new opportunities to build social connections.
A man studies a document in a library.

Lords media literacy report recognises crucial role of libraries

Lords Communications and Digital Committee warns that "failure to prioritise media literacy in the UK presents a "risk to social cohesion and democracy".
Libraries Connected President Ed Jewell smiles into the camera. He is wearing a suit and a pair of glasses.

Ed Jewell reflects on one year as Libraries Connected President

Opinion

Ed Jewell

'I passionately believe that public libraries must play a critical role in supporting literacy and reading.'
A woman speaks to a red haired woman in a library.

Libraries encouraged to promote ‘Misinformation UNMasked’ campaign

The campaign includes the development of a series of three animations to help people to spot the signs of health misinformation.
Emma Hoddinott

Libraries Connected welcomes new Director to "grow profile, impact and influence"

Emma Hoddinott takes up new role of Director of Policy, External Affairs and Research.
A woman sits at a desk in a library reading.

Libraries Connected welcomes plans for National Year of Reading 2026

The National Year of Reading 2026 is a campaign delivered by the National Literacy Trust and the Department for Education.
This image captures a nighttime view of Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament in London. The long-exposure photograph shows light trails from passing vehicles on the bridge, creating streaks of white, yellow, and red lights. The illuminated clock tower and buildings contrast against the dark, cloudy sky. Pedestrians are visible on the right side, some appearing blurred due to movement. The wet pavement reflects the city lights, adding depth and vibrancy to the scene.

Libraries must be protected in review of councils' statutory duties

Libraries Connected has responded to Angela Rayner’s announcement of a review of councils’ statutory duties, calling on her to protect the right to a quality local library service.
A woman smiles as she talks in a library.

Charities help libraries step up support for low-income families

Oldham and Cornwall library services join Gateshead in Poverty Proofing© project
JKP-240620-9554.jpg

North West libraries get ready for "record breaking rhyme time"

Public libraries across the North West will take part in a mass "rhyme time" this week to celebrate children’s literacy