Libraries Connected Awards 2026: Winners and Runners-up
Congratulations to all this year's winners and runners-up at the Libraries Connected Awards 2026. These awards celebrate the creativity, commitment and impact of people working in public libraries, recognising those who go above and beyond for their communities.
From inspiring reading and supporting wellbeing to driving digital innovation, championing accessibility and enriching cultural life, this year's winners and runners-up show the vital role libraries play every day. We are delighted to celebrate their achievements and share their stories.
The Libraries Connected Awards are generously sponsored by OverDrive, the leading digital content distributor for libraries and schools worldwide, and creator of the award-winning library reading app, Libby.
Children's Promise Category
James Fisher and Zachary Wells (Kent Libraries) – Winner
Built a powerful partnership with youth football teams, bringing reading and library services into sporting audiences.
Emily Maycock (Medway Libraries) – Runner-up
Founded the Medway Reading Network, bringing together librarians and teachers to strengthen reading, improve wellbeing, and expand opportunities for children and young people.
Culture and Creativity Category
Michelle Shine and Keshia Stewart (Stockport Libraries) – Winner
Delivered a flagship mosaic project combining community storytelling, sustainability and public art to create a lasting expression of local identity.
Mark George and Rebecca Rudall (Tower Hamlets Libraries) – Runner-up
Led the development of Writeidea, an inclusive literary festival offering free, high-quality creative opportunities for diverse communities.
Health and Wellbeing Category
Charlotte Higham (Bolton Libraries) – Winner
Introduced an interactive Rainbow Table to support people living with dementia through engaging, wellbeing-focused activities.
Anna Putek (Manchester Libraries) – Runner-up
Created inclusive craft groups and city-wide initiatives that reduce isolation and strengthen community connections.
Information and Digital Category
Engagement and Access Team (Blackpool Libraries) – Winner
Developed "Explore Tech, Expand Worlds", giving young people hands-on experience creating immersive digital content and building new skills.
Melanie Weeks (Vale of Glamorgan Libraries) – Runner-up
Led a pioneering digitisation project that safeguards local heritage and ensures long-term access to historical collections.
Share the Vision Promise Category
Sarah Jones (Vision Redbridge Culture and Leisure) – Winner
Championed accessibility through live audio description and inclusive cultural programming for blind and visually impaired users.
Thomas Williams (Manchester Libraries) – Runner-up
Developed a self-guided audio trail enhancing access to Manchester Central Library for visually impaired visitors.
Reading Category
Caroline Hall (Bolton Libraries) – Winner
Strengthened early years literacy through high-quality storytelling and staff training.
Victoria Little (South Tyneside Libraries) – Runner-up
Introduced an innovative rewards scheme to encourage reading and library engagement.
Special Awards
Ian Anstice BEM – President’s Special Achievement Award
Recognised for outstanding contribution to the library sector through Public Libraries News.
Kate Mosse CBE – Public Library Champion
Honoured for exceptional advocacy for reading, literacy and public libraries.