LIBRARY OF THE YEAR SPONSORED BY: THE READING AGENCY THE SHORTLIST
BARKING LEARNING CENTRE An example of a very modern library service, integrated with other council services in the same building.
PLYMOUTH CENTRAL LIBRARY Opened in the heart of the city last March, since when visitor numbers have increased by more than 50%.
RNIB LIBRARY With a collection of more than 40,000 large print, Braille and talking books, it is a vital service for the visually impaired.
WALSALL LIBRARY SERVICE Dedicated staff stage numerous events—despite the threat of closure of half its libraries from cuts announced since this shortlist was revealed.
THE WORD LIBRARY A model of community outreach and instrumental in efforts to revitalise South Shields.
WINNER: CAMBERWELL LIBRARY
Beautifully designed, full of life and at the heart of its community, Camberwell Library in south-east London is the model of a modern public library at a time when so many are facing closure. Opened in late 2015, it has been acclaimed for its
architecture and adored by local residents, who last year borrowed more than twice as many items as they did in the final 12 months of the old Camberwell Library. It has staged visits from authors including Anne Fine, Mike Gayle and Holly Webb, and hosts book groups and storytime sessions for children. Add-on services include homework clubs, internet taster sessions and exhibitions. A weekly “Feel Better with a Book” session is just one example of how it has enhanced the lives of locals.
KEY STRENGTHS
◆ VIBRANT NEW LIBRARY THAT IS A KEY PART OF CAMBERWELL’S REGENERATION ◆ DOUBLED NUMBERS OF ISSUES AND NEW BORROWERS IN 2016, ITS FIRST FULL YEAR OF OPERATION ◆ WIDE RANGE OF EVENTS, GROUPS AND CLUBS WITH AN EMPHASIS ON YOUNG CHILDREN ◆ IMAGINATIVE PROMOS INCLUDING “CHOOSE A BOOK FOR CAMBERWELL LIBRARY” TO PICK STOCK
19. BRITISH BOOK AWARDS - WINNERS 2017 Crucially, books remain at its heart, with a 25%
increase in stock last year. “The new Camberwell Library is completely entrancing,” said one visitor last year—and judges agreed. “It’s such a vibrant place. It’s doing all the things a library should, and so much more . . . and the commitment to inclusion and outreach is stunning.” Judges were cheered by the work of all six libraries on this shortlist in the face of local authorities’ budget cuts and closures. “Many people think of libraries as disappearing, but these places show what can be done with a bit of love and investment. Their level of community engagement is incredible . . . it’s a welcome good news story that shows how libraries are exciting and evolving.”
The Reading Agency’s programmes support and keep people reading at all stages of life through innovative reading activities developed with libraries, publishers, authors and other partners.
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