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

Two women discuss something at a library table.

Libraries: the essential service

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.
Schoolchildren jump in the air as they pass a monile library.

London's libraries were visited by almost 32 million people last year

The impressive figures are part of London Libraries' 2023-24 Annual Report.
Photo Of Yellow Lantern During Night

Libraries light up for Spellow reopening

Libraries across the country will be lit up next week in a gesture of "solidarity, hope and joy" to mark the reopening of Spellow Library and Community Hub.
A library customer is helped by a staff member at an information desk.

Creating Safer Libraries: updated guidance published

The 2024 updates include information about external communications and social media as well as additional links to guidance and useful organisations.
The inside of a library. People are sitting down in the background.

Charities join forces to 'poverty proof' libraries

This project seeks to remove the barriers that prevent low-income families from accessing support at their library.
The inside of Barnsley Light Box library.

Yorkshire and Humber libraries reflect on a year of success

Yorkshire and Humber libraries welcomed almost 10 million people through their doors in 2023 to 2024.
Man with a baby stroller, seen through a circular blue tube, browsing bookshelves in a library

Libraries celebrate microgrant success

The 15 successful projects include an inter-generational creative programme exploring the history of gaming, a World Book Day costume swap, and a new lending library of screen-free audiobook devices for children.
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Libraries Connected seeks specialist for libraries and older people research project

The proposal builds on 'Libraries for Living, and for Living Better'.
Two women chatting over a cuppa

Warm spaces return to UK libraries for third year running

Warm spaces are free community venues where people can go to stay warm during the colder months.