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 Christmas tree made from stacked open books arranged in a triangular shape, topped with a star crafted from sheet music.

Tell us your favourite festive reads

We want to celebrate your favourite festive reads, from Dickensian classics to more obscure wintry tales.
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 female librarian advises a customer.

Libraries Connected publishes new report on library loan trends

Read our comprehensive review of trends in library borrowing across England and Wales.
People sitting at a table in a library engaged in a craft activity with yarn and knitted items, including colourful stuffed toys. The table has cups, craft supplies and a folder. A dog is lying on the floor underneath.

South East libraries deliver millions in value through support for mental health and wellbeing - report

A groundbreaking new report shows that libraries deliver millions in value by supporting mental health and wellbeing.
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'.
An older man walks between library shelves.

Get the Nation Learning Week

Public libraries are places that have a profoundly positive impact on lifelong learning.
A family stands in front of a Ukrainian mobile library.

Five things we have learnt from Ukraine library partnerships

Isobel Hunter attended the Lviv International Library Conference in September to express our ongoing support for Ukraine's libraries.
A person walks down a quiet, winding path surrounded by lush green trees, basking in the warm evening light.

Green Libraries Week: How libraries are helping communities connect with nature

Public libraries have emerged as champions of environmental engagement, thanks to a groundbreaking project led by Libraries Connected and Natural England.
Libraries Connected President Ed Jewell delivers a speech at Manchester Central Library.

Public libraries: A ‘People’s Network’ for the 21st century

The spirit of the Public Libraries Act is not a relic but alive in every child who discovers a love of reading.'
An image from a Black British Ballet event in Bristol shows two women dancing.

'Into the Light: Pioneers of Black British Ballet' reaches final venues

The initiative has toured 29 libraries and delivered over 170 activities nationwide since its launch in October last year.
A female librarian reads with a child in a library.

Hull Schools Library Service: Creating lifelong readers for pleasure

Opinion

Amy Jeffrey

Children and young people need to see themselves and others in the texts they read, Amy writes.