The twenty libraries that have successfully joined the Libraries Development Framework in 2025 have been revealed.

Launched in April this year, Arts Council’s Libraries Development Framework is a service development tool. Applying to become part of the Framework is an opportunity for libraries to demonstrate commitment to innovation, development and creative ways of working towards key criteria.

Being part of the Libraries Development Framework is national recognition of development. It will allow the twenty library services to advocate effectively at local and national levels and to prepare for current and future challenges by demonstrating a data-informed, inclusive, collaborative and place-based approach to service delivery. 

This year’s successful libraries have shown how they positively impact and meet the needs of local communities through the use of data, consultation and co-design practices. They have also demonstrated how they address local priorities through innovative partnerships and how vision and leadership within the library service is embedded and reflected through unique and pioneering initiatives and effective and sustainable use of resources.  

The Framework has highlighted libraries as collaborative, data-informed, strategic place-makers from Bolton’s community-led programming offering of Art for Dementia, chair-based exercise classes and Botanical Art, to Inspire in Nottinghamshire’s strategic partnership delivering local health priorities, to Wandsworth’s support for the local business community. A wealth of innovation and effective working practices is happening in libraries within the Framework, all underpinned by creative leadership and workforce development. 

Luke Burton, Director, Libraries at Arts Council England said:

“I am delighted to see the first group of libraries join the Libraries Development Framework and would like to congratulate them all. At Arts Council England we believe the framework is a valuable service development tool that allows libraries to demonstrate how they support their communities, staff and wider local priorities. The successful applicants demonstrate the breadth and depth of library services across England, and we hope that they will act as case studies from which others can learn from and that they will encourage others to apply when the framework opens for applications again in 2026.” 

Isobel Hunter, Chief Executive at Libraries Connected:

"Congratulations to the first library services joining the Libraries Development Framework. This milestone reflects the sector's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, ensuring libraries meet the changing needs of their communities. The Framework provides a clear, nationally recognised definition of a high-quality library service, and it’s fantastic to see these libraries leading the way."

Libraries remain in the Framework for five years. The next round of applications to join the Framework will open in 2026.   

You can view the full list of libraries and read more about the work happening in the libraries within the Framework on the Arts Council England website.