Libraries recognised for community impact

Two South West libraries have been recognised for making a positive difference in their communities and nominated for awards.

Barnstaple Library, run by Libraries Unlimited, is in the running for the alongside Cornwall Libraries as South West England Regional & Country finalists for the Library of the Year.

The winner will be announced on 12 March and would be in the running for the overall Library of the Year at The British Book Awards 2026.

Alex Kittow, chief executive officer at Libraries Unlimited, said: "We are incredibly proud to have Barnstaple Library receive this recognition."

Kittow added: "The team works so hard to create a safe, welcoming space for the local community, and they truly champion people's well-being in everything they do.

"It's so inspiring to see the care, heart, and pride the staff take in creating a library that serves and enriches its community."

Libraries Unlimited said Barnstaple Library was a "vital hub" for "thousands of residents in one of Devon's most deprived areas".

It said it received around 170,000 annual visits and had almost 700 events every year and securedexternal funding of over £50,000 to "expand their community and wellbeing initiatives".

These included offering free weekly soup sessions as part of Warm Welcome Spaces and free family breakfasts during school holidays.

Organisers said the award "celebrates libraries that serve their readers and implement initiatives which reach deep into communities, improving the lives of individuals through storytelling and literature".

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