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

Two people drinking hot drinks and talking in a library

Libraries Connected responds to announcement of new mental health centres in libraries

Libraries Connected has responded to the Government's announcement that 100 new community mental health centres will open across England, including in public libraries.
A woman smiles as she talks in a library.

Not misogyny, but not gender-neutral: why library closures matter to women

Opinion

Isobel Hunter

Following her appearance on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, Chief Executive Isobel Hunter explores the long relationship between women and libraries, and what can be lost when services are reduced.
Cover of impact report

Libraries Connected publishes first annual impact report

Libraries Connected has published its first annual impact report, showcasing how we are supporting our members to collaborate, innovate and respond to the changing needs of their communities.
Volunteer supports an older adult to use a smartphone during a digital skills session.

Libraries key to building public confidence in AI, Libraries Connected tells Minister

Libraries Connected has written to the Minister for AI, calling for stronger national coordination and investment in community AI literacy initiatives
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

Looking for a summer read? Librarians share their holiday reading recommendations

From Italian villas and Greek islands to Japanese food detectives, family sagas and train journeys around the world, library staff have shared the books they believe make the perfect holiday read.
An older man reads to a young boy in a library.

"A clear call to action" - Libraries Connected responds to Education Committee report on Reading for Pleasure

The cross-party Education Committee has today published its report on Reading for Pleasure, following evidence from a range of experts, including Libraries Connected CEO Isobel Hunter.
The sun

Libraries Connected writes to MPs on growing demand for "cool spaces"

Libraries Connected has highlighted growing demand for libraries to act as "cool spaces" during heatwaves in a letter to the Environmental Audit Committee, as rising temperatures expose significant limits in the library estate, with many buildings unable to stay safe or open in extreme heat.
Two people use a self-service library kiosk. One person places a book on the scanner while the other watches. The kiosk screen is visible, with several books stacked below it. Bookshelves and reading areas can be seen in the background of the bright, modern library.

Library bodies launch strategy to strengthen workforce

Four national organisations have come together to set out a shared vision for the future of the public library workforce, with a new strategy to guide services, leaders and partners across England.
Person holding an ereader displaying a graphic novel page

Libraries strengthen links with independent publishers to broaden ebook access

Libraries Connected has secured £65,770 from Arts Council England to run a national programme improving how public libraries and independent publishers work together on ebooks.
Portrait photo of Annabel Gittins

From reflection to action: lessons in leading through change

Opinion

Annabel Gittins

Annabel Gittins, Library Support Manager at Shropshire Council, reflects on what she learned from our Thriving in Complexity programme, and how it is shaping her approach to leadership in uncertain times.
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.