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Libraries Connected

@librariesconnected.org.uk
8.5K followers 834 following 732 posts

We are an independent charity that supports, promotes and represents public libraries. Our work is driven and led by our membership, which includes almost every library service in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Crown Dependencies.

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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 8h
Missed our webinar on how libraries can support BBC 500 Words? Hear practical ideas from the BBC, Oxford University Press and library judges on promoting the competition, supporting young writers and getting involved in judging. Watch: buff.ly/kvvrUII
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 25/09/2026
How can public libraries attract more people to the sector and help staff develop their careers? Join our upcoming Shared Ambitions webinars to discover practical approaches that could work in your service: buff.ly/BNRkMMC
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Reposted by Libraries Connected
Clover @cloveroverover.bsky.social · 24/09/2026
Great visit to the newly refurbished Carlisle Library for the @librariesconnected.org.uk North West meeting today. So great to see such a large space dedicated to children and families. ❤️ ( @librariesrising.bsky.social )
A library space with chairs and tables. The wall decor says 'Creative Lab' with a picture of a rainbow. A library space filled with microfilm readers with the words 'History Lab' on the wall, along with images of Carlisle landmarks.A photograph of the local history section at Carlisle Library, including multiple microfilm readers. A photo of part of Carlisle children's library space including bookshelves and roman/hadrian's wall theme wall decor
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 24/09/2026
We welcome Arts Council England’s new libraries activities data, offering valuable insights into how public libraries reach people and support communities. Our research team is analysing the figures, and we’ll share more insights soon. Explore the new data: buff.ly/7J4IJ7c
buff.ly
Supporting libraries
We are the development agency for libraries in England. Our focus is on public libraries which operate within a wider framework of library provision and local and national government services.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 23/09/2026
Is your library service considering applying to Arts Council England’s National Portfolio Investment Programme 2028–33? Applications open on 20 October and close on 15 December 2026. You can explore the guidance and start preparing your application here: buff.ly/UG2FXL7
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 18/09/2026
Community spaces are essential, but access is unequal. New @jrf-uk.bsky.social research identifies 686 neighbourhoods facing high deprivation and a shortage of shared spaces: buff.ly/OI6K0Wl Public libraries are part of the solution: connecting people with information, opportunities and each other.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 17/09/2026
Libraries Connected warmly welcomes the new Minister for Libraries Baroness Ruth Mackenzie CBE. We look forward to working with her to explore how public libraries can support the government in delivering its priorities. www.gov.uk/government/p...
gov.uk
Baroness Ruth Mackenzie CBE
Ruth Mackenzie CBE was appointed Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport on 22 July 2026.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 15/09/2026
Reading for pleasure can support brain health, cognition and wellbeing. New research commissioned by The Queen’s Reading Room brings together evidence and strengthens the case for free, welcoming public libraries that help everyone find something they love to read: www.cambridge.org/core/journal...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 12/09/2026
Want to make a stronger case for your library service? Join our Advocacy and Influencing webinar for practical ideas to help you communicate the value of libraries, build support and influence decision-makers. 🔗 Find out more and book your place: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/advoc...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 11/09/2026
Young people want to connect in person, but often have nowhere to go. A new report from @ippr.org highlights the need for free, welcoming “third spaces”. Libraries can be part of the answer — giving young people somewhere to meet and take part in local life. www.ippr.org/articles/the...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 09/09/2026
After a hugely successful nationwide tour, Into the Light: Pioneers of Black British Ballet comes to libraries in London this autumn. Find out more: www.blackbritishballet.com/articles/bra... Image: Chantelle Gotobed, Taniec, choreography by Raymond Chai ©2007 Arena Pal, photographer Bill Cooper
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 04/09/2026
Delighted to see our new @artscouncilengland.bsky.social uncilengland.bsky.social -funded research into comics and graphic novels featured in @thebookseller.com today www.thebookseller.com/features/mak...
thebookseller.com
Making a splash: how graphic novels conquered libraries
Children’s publishing and manga are driving a boom, but issues around budgets and age-ranging may stymie growth, The Bookseller hears.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 01/09/2026
Later this month, libraries will be taking part in Heritage Open Days, England's largest festival of history and culture. This year's theme, Everyday Histories, explores daily life and work through the ages. 📅 11-20 September 2026. Find out more: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 26/08/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dolly Parton. Dolly understood the transformative power of books and through her Imagination Library shared that passion with millions of children around the world. She will be greatly missed across the library and literacy sectors.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 26/08/2026
📈 New government figures show a significant rise in library use across England - 36% of people aged 16+ engaged with a library service at least once in 2025/26. That's up from 31% the previous year and the highest level since the pandemic. Read the full findings: www.gov.uk/government/s...
gov.uk
Community and Engagement Survey 2025/26 - libraries: report
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 25/08/2026
Public libraries are uniquely placed to help communities navigate misinformation and disinformation. This new Arts Council England report highlights both the opportunity and the challenge: www.artscouncil.org.uk/research-and...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 21/08/2026
Our 'How libraries can support AI and digital media literacy' guide shares learning from the Innovating in Trusted Spaces project, which explored how libraries can support AI and media literacy in their communities. 📖 Read the guide and other resources: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/index.php/pr...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 19/08/2026
Our Meet the Winners webinar brought together winners and runners-up from the 2026 Libraries Connected Awards to share the ideas behind their work and the lessons they've learned along the way. Watch the recording on YouTube: ▶️ youtu.be/OPHK1gEJ3qw
youtu.be
Libraries Connected Awards 2026: Meet The Winners | Libraries Connected Webinars
Hear directly from some of this year's Libraries Connected Award winners and runners-up. From improving children's reading and wellbeing, to helping young people develop digital skills, tackling…
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 17/08/2026
Summer holidays are a great opportunity for libraries to get out into their communities. One example comes from Essex, where the library service took over a Clacton beach hut to run activities for local families. We'd love to hear more examples - what outreach activities have you run this summer?
A friendly brown-and-black terrier wearing a red harness and blue bandana sits on a beach blanket while families relax nearby, with an Essex County Council Libraries logo visible in the corner.Library outreach volunteer at a seaside stall promoting the "Summer Reading Challenge," smiling behind a table of brochures, sign-up sheets and colorful flyers, with pastel beach huts and a display board of library events behind her.Two smiling library staff at a purple outreach hut promoting Essex County libraries and the Summer Reading Challenge, standing behind a table of brochures and activities while one holds a brown Gruffalo puppet.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 12/08/2026
How can library staff create engaging storytelling experiences for a multilingual audience? Find out at our Multilingual Storytelling Workshop on 1 September, 2-3pm. Find out more and book your place: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/webin...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 07/08/2026
Last year, we delivered more than 50 webinars, with 3,000 live participants and a further 3,000 on-demand views. Missed one? Catch up on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@librariesco...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 06/08/2026
We welcome the Government's recognition of the role libraries play in supporting mental health. This must be matched by investment in staff, training and facilities, while protecting libraries as trusted, neutral spaces for everyone. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
New walk-in mental health centres to open in banks and libraries across England
Government plans network of nearly 200 specialist services to help those facing mental health crises.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 05/08/2026
At our Meet the Winners webinar, you'll hear practical insights from this year's Libraries Connected Awards winners and runners-up, with time to ask questions and explore how their approaches could work in your own service. 📅 Tues 11 Aug, 2pm 🔗 www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/webin...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 04/08/2026
Following her appearance on Woman's Hour yesterday, our CEO Isobel Hunter reflects on the question: are library closures misogynistic? 🔗 Read Isobel's blog: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/not-mis...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 03/08/2026
Are library closures misogynistic? That was the question posed by Kirsten MacQuarrie on BBC Radio 4's Woman's Hour, with Libraries Connected CEO Isobel Hunter joining the discussion. 🎧 Listen here: www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/... (starts at 16:41)
bbc.co.uk
Woman's Hour - Listener Week: Marriage & friends, Library cuts, NICU babies, Intergenerational friendships - BBC Sounds
As Listener Week kicks off, how honest are you with your friends about your marriage?
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 29/07/2026
📢 Today we're publishing our first impact report, showcasing how we're supporting our members to collaborate, innovate and respond to the changing needs of their communities. You can read and download the report here: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/librari...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 28/07/2026
Today we wrote to Kanishka Narayan MP, the newly reappointed Minister for AI, calling for stronger national coordination and investment in community AI literacy through public libraries. Find out more and read the letter: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/librari...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 27/07/2026
Updated guidance for library and archive services navigating LGR is now available. Designed for heads of service, it explores the opportunities and challenges ahead, the questions to ask, and how to engage confidently as new authority structures take shape. 🔗 www.local.gov.uk/our-support/...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 26/07/2026
Great to see public libraries highlighted by the BBC as a low-cost way for families to make the most of the summer holidays. 🔗 www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Five ways to make the most of the summer holidays with kids
The best tips and tricks to have a fun - yet affordable - summer break with the family.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 24/07/2026
📍Around 78% of people in England and Wales can reach a public library within a 30-minute walk. Few public services have this level of local reach. Source: www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopula...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 23/07/2026
🏆 Meet the Winners! Join us on 11 August at 2pm for our Meet the Winners webinar, where you'll hear directly from some of this year's Libraries Connected Award winners and runners-up. 👉 Book your place: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/webin...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 21/07/2026
🏖️📚 Looking for a summer read? A huge thank you to all the library staff who submitted their holiday reading recommendations! We narrowed them down to 20 books that made us want to add them straight to our own TBR pile. 📖 Browse the full list: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/looking...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 17/07/2026
📢 We're hiring! We're looking for a new Regional Development Manager to join the Libraries Connected team- a fantastic opportunity for someone who wants to help libraries achieve even more by working together www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/librari...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 17/07/2026
The Education Committee has today published its report on Reading for Pleasure - and many of our recommendations are included. This is a clear call to action: the Burnham government must make reading for pleasure part of its mission to expand opportunity publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5902/cm...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 15/07/2026
Another thoughtful and productive discussion today at the latest meeting of the Libraries Alliance, hosted by Lambeth Palace Library - a library that has welcomed the public since 1610. Watch this space for more Libraries Alliance news soon! librariesalliance.org.uk
Lambeth Palace's historic red-brick facade with mullioned leaded windows, decorative diamond brickwork, a large arched black wooden gate, smaller arched doorway and a sign reading "LAMBETH PALACE."
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 15/07/2026
🎓 Our new learning portal is now live! To access the portal, you'll need a member account. Simply log in to the member platform and select Learning from the top menu. If you don't yet have an account, you can set one up at members.librariesconnected.org.uk
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 13/07/2026
We warmly welcome today's DCMS announcement of £12.5m for the Music in Libraries programme. We look forward to seeing the impact it will have on the next generation of musicians, producers and creative talent!
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 08/07/2026
Congratulations to Patrice Lawrence, the new @booktrust.org.uk Children's Laureate. Patrice's avowal to champion 'shared stories as a tool for bringing people together' is one shared by public libraries. www.bbc.co.uk/news/article...
bbc.co.uk
Brighton-born author Patrice Lawrence named new children's laureate
Brighton-born Patrice Lawrence will be the main representative of children's literature until 2028.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 06/07/2026
Our Chief Executive Isobel Hunter MBE will speak tomorrow in Newcastle upon Tyne at the first Reading with Dementia symposium. The event explores supporting people living with dementia to keep reading for enjoyment. It is funded by @artscouncilengland.bsky.social.
A woman speaks to people in a library.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 02/07/2026
📢 We're hiring! We’re looking for a Digital Communications Officer. For full details and to apply visit CharityJob: www.charityjob.co.uk/jobs/librari... 📅 Deadline for applications: July 16, 9am
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 02/07/2026
🚀 Today we’re launching Shared Ambitions! Created with @artscouncilengland.bsky.social, @cilip.bsky.social and @librariesrising.bsky.social, this new resource sets out a shared vision for a diverse, inclusive and future-ready library workforce www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/library...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 30/06/2026
We're leading a new Arts Council England-funded project to strengthen how public libraries and independent publishers work together on ebooks - helping more readers discover and borrow a wider range of titles during the National Year of Reading www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/librari...
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 29/06/2026
The Quilt of Welcome, part of the #LovedAndWanted project, is on display at Redbridge Library until 24 July. Funded by london.gov.uk and tnlcommunityfund.org.uk Loved and Wanted is a campaign promoting social cohesion across London. www.librariesconnected.org.uk/projects/lov...
A photograph of the Quilt of Welcome at Redbridge Library.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 25/06/2026
Thriving in Complexity is our leadership programme for new and emerging heads of service. A new evaluation ahows clear impact: participants reported greater confidence, a clearer sense of their role and more effective support for their teams 👉 www.librariesconnected.org.uk/resources/le...
A woman is seen writing at a Know Your Neighbourhood Conference.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 23/06/2026
🪧There is still time to sign up for tomorrow’s webinar exploring two practical approaches to staff development in public libraries. www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/webin...
A man replaces books on a library shelf.

Credit: Nicola Tree.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 22/06/2026
📢 Please complete our apprenticeship survey Apprenticeships are opening the door to library careers and attracting new talent into the sector. Help us shape how we support apprenticeships and make the case for more and better opportunities. 👉 forms.office.com/Pages/Respon... 📅 Deadline: 10 July
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 20/06/2026
Today marks the official start of the Summer Reading Challenge! Against a backdrop of concern about children's reading for pleasure, the Challenge highlights the essential role of libraries in building lasting reading habits summerreadingchallenge.org.uk
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 17/06/2026
We can’t believe it's already been a week since our Annual Seminar! Across a wide range of ideas, discussions and practical insights, one theme stood out: the vital role of professional values, expertise and judgment at the heart of public libraries. What were your highlights? 📸 Ryan Hurley
Speaker presenting at a Libraries Connected event, standing at a lectern with slides displayed behind.Three attendees posing on stage at the Annual Seminar, with a large illustrated backdrop behind.Small group discussion at a table during a workshop session, with participants sharing ideas and notes.Attendees contributing to a workshop exercise, writing on a board during a collaborative session.
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 16/06/2026
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. Find out more: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/nationa...
Screengrab of the Read On app
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Libraries Connected @librariesconnected.org.uk · 15/06/2026
As part of the #NationalYearofReading, we're inviting library workers and volunteers to share their favourite books to read on holiday ☀️🌊 👉 Submit your recommendation: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/share-y...
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