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

An older man reads a book to a smiling child.

Libraries celebrate success of regional funding

The funding has supported new strategic projects in the nine English regions.
A female librarian speaks with a man in a library.

Arts Council England launches Libraries Development Framework

The Framework will allow library services to advocate effectively at local and national levels.
Two women smile as they listen to a discussion.

Libraries Connected launches second round of Peer Mentoring Scheme

The scheme is open to Heads of Service and Emerging Leaders considering applying for a Head of Service role in the next year.
Two women work at laptops; a man is in the background.

Libraries Connected submits evidence to Commission on Community and Cohesion

We believe that public libraries are and should remain central to efforts at community cohesion.
This image shows a man wearing a bright yellow T-shirt with "LOVE YOUR LIBRARY" printed in bold pink text on the back. He is standing in an outdoor setting with a crowd of people, including children and adults, around him. Some individuals are browsing books displayed in an open suitcase

Statement on Suffolk Libraries

Our response to the news that Suffolk’s library service will be taken in-house.
Two women speak in a library.

Revisions to England's library byelaws announced

Byelaws are intended to help libraries deliver their service within a safe and comfortable environment.
A woman laughts in a library.

Libraries Connected Awards 2025: Shortlists announced

The Awards celebrate the achievements of library workers who have had an exceptional impact on their library service, users or their local communities.
An older woman with light skin and shoulder-length gray hair sits at a table in a modern library space

Second round of Microgrants announced

Congratulations to the recipients of our second round of Arts Council-funded microgrants!
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 Connected submits evidence to Parliamentary inquiry into council funding

We've submitted evidence to a parliamentary inquiry into local government finance.
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.

Libraries Connected celebrates 30 years of Women's Prize

Libraries Connected will be working with the Women's Prize Trust this year to expand engagement opportunities for readers through libraries.
Three people stood at a sponsor's stand

Bolinda Bursaries: apply for a fully-funded place at our annual seminar

We're very pleased to announce that Bolinda will once again fund several places at our annual seminar.
A person is relaxing outdoors, reclining on a chair with legs stretched out and crossed at the ankles, wearing denim shorts and pink floral slip-on shoes. They are holding an ereader in one hand, displaying text in French. The person has colorful bracelets and wristbands on both wrists, along with star tattoos. In the background, there is an ornate metal railing, stone structures, and greenery, suggesting a park or garden setting with blurred figures in the distance.

Report: cheaper ebooks for libraries could "revolutionise the promotion of reading"

Publishers could open up important new promotional and reader development opportunities by making ebooks cheaper and more accessible to public libraries, according to a new report funded by Arts Council England.