@librariesconnected.org.uk
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.
@librariesconnected.org.ukThis #WorldMentalHealthDay is about turning lived experience into meaningful change.
Libraries listen and respond to local needs. From reading and social activities to welcoming spaces, evidence shows they can support mental health and wellbeing.
Read more: buff.ly/S4fKDDk
@ruthmackenzie.bsky.socialReposted by @librariesconnected.org.ukThanks so much #LiverpoolCentralLibrary @librariesconnected.org.uk for such an inspiring visit
@librariesconnected.org.uk🌟 Nominations are open for the Libraries Connected Awards 2027!
Help us celebrate the individuals and teams making an exceptional difference in public libraries and their communities.
Nominate someone today: buff.ly/BdcixLq
@librariesconnected.org.uk776 babies joined Stoke-on-Trent Libraries in the first year of My First Library Card. Families are invited to join when a birth is registered, opening the door to free books, activities and support from the start.
Read the story buff.ly/nTLg4pB
@librariesconnected.org.ukGreat to join Libraries Minister Baroness Ruth Mackenzie CBE for a tour of Liverpool Central Library yesterday. Discussions explored how libraries support culture, learning and local growth, from early years and neighbourhood cohesion to archives and partnerships with Ukraine.
@librariesconnected.org.ukNow open for entries, BBC 500 Words invites children aged five to 11 to write an original story of 500 words or fewer.
The competition closes at 9pm on Friday 6 November 2026. For more details and to read the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Notices, see buff.ly/ijBEyjb.
@librariesconnected.org.ukMissed 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
@librariesconnected.org.ukHow 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
@cloveroverover.bsky.socialReposted by @librariesconnected.org.ukGreat 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 )
@librariesconnected.org.ukWe 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
@librariesconnected.org.ukIs 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
@librariesconnected.org.ukCommunity 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.
@librariesconnected.org.ukLibraries 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.
@librariesconnected.org.ukReading 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...
@librariesconnected.org.ukWant 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.
đź”— Find out more and book your place: www.librariesconnected.org.uk/events/advoc...
@librariesconnected.org.ukYoung 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...
@librariesconnected.org.ukAfter 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
@librariesconnected.org.ukDelighted to see our new @artscouncilengland.bsky.social uncilengland.bsky.social -funded research into comics and graphic novels featured in @thebookseller.com today
@librariesconnected.org.ukLater 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.
đź“… 11-20 September 2026.
Find out more: www.heritageopendays.org.uk
