Celebrate Your Library: The British Book Awards ‘Library of the Year 2025’ Submissions Are Open!
Libraries are about more than just books. They are vibrant community hubs that transform lives, connect people, and spark our imagination. The British Book Awards’ Library of the Year award is your chance to showcase the incredible work happening in public libraries across the UK and Ireland.
Brought to you by The Bookseller, sponsored by publisher DK and delivered in association with us at The Reading Agency, the award invites public libraries to shine a spotlight on their most innovative and impactful reading projects. Whether you’ve developed a groundbreaking community initiative, created a unique reading campaign, or found creative ways to engage new audiences, now is the time to tell your story.
What We’re Looking For
The judges are seeking libraries that go above and beyond in:
- Engaging new library users and readers
- Creating innovative community-focused reading projects
- Demonstrating meaningful impact on local communities
- Showcasing creative approaches to library services
Key Submission Criteria
Your submission should highlight:
- Your library’s background and typical audience
- A specific reading project that reached new library users
- Staff and volunteer involvement
- Partnerships with local organisations, publishers, or authors
- Community engagement and impact
- Measurable outcomes (such as increased footfall, memberships or loans)
- Future plans or legacy of the project
The winning library can look forward to attending the British Book Awards ceremony in London as well as featuring in a dedicated article in on The Bookseller, and in posts across The Reading Agency’s socials and newsletters. You’ll also receive a winner logo to display in your library and on your website.
If you have an exciting reading initiative or project that took place between January and December 2024, head over to The British Book Awards website and submit your application.
Good luck!
