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 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.
A female librarian welcomes a customer.

New appointments strengthen our library advocacy voice

We are pleased to announce the arrivals of three new staff members.
Libraries Connected Award winners with Nick Forster, Ayub Khan, Isobel Hunter and Ed Jewell.

OverDrive to sponsor Libraries Connected Awards for fourth year running

OverDrive is creator of the award-winning library reading app Libby.
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Libraries Connected Yorkshire & Humber: Tender for Advocacy Development

We are seeking a consultant or organisation to work with to deliver against our 2024-2025 Strategic Plan.
Two women discuss something at a library table.

Libraries: the essential service

Opinion

Ed Jewell

Libraries Connected President Ed Jewell outlines his vision for the future of the public library service.
Young man with headphones on using a laptop with library bookshelves behind

Libraries Connected issues guidance to councils considering major changes to library services

Libraries Connected has published new guidance for local authorities that are considering major changes, including closures, to their library services.
Three people sit around a table in a library working.

Microgrants round three: prepare your applications

The Microgrants Programme offers grants of £1,000–£5,000 to support small-scale projects or the early stages of larger initiatives.
Helen Milner and Isobel Hunter signing the Memorandum of Understanding between Good Things Foundation and Libraries Connected

Leading library and digital inclusion charities forge new partnership

Libraries Connected and Good Things Foundation, the UK's leading digital inclusion charity, have announced a new agreement that will see us work together more closely on fixing the digital divide.