The annual Libraries Connected Awards celebrate the achievements of library workers who have had an exceptional impact on their library service, users or their local communities. The winners are announced at an awards ceremony in June each year, part of the Libraries Connected annual seminar.

The Awards are open to individuals or teams and are made in six categories, which reflect the Universal Library Offers. Nominations open each autumn and can come from anyone working in or with public libraries, including volunteers and library partners.

The shortlisted nominations are considered by an expert panel of judges which includes authors, library leaders and representatives of national organisations such as Arts Council England, The Reading Agency and the BBC.

There is also a President’s Award, recognising an outstanding library leader, and a Public Library Champion Award, given to a public figure who has used their platform to promote, celebrate and raise awareness of libraries.