DCMS announces successful applicants to libraries fund

The Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) and Arts Council England has announced that 30 local authorities’ libraries services from across the country will receive a total of £3.9 million from the Libraries Opportunities for Everyone Innovation fund.

Launched as part of The Libraries Taskforce strategy to help create successful and sustainable public library services, the fund is aimed at supporting innovative activity in England’s public libraries.

According to a statement from the DCMS, the investment will support libraries to help build a fairer society and deliver opportunities for disadvantaged communities across the country.

The successful projects included: Greenwich Leisure, £125,121; Telford and Wrekin Council, £50,000; Hull Culture and Leisure Ltd, £243,783; Norfolk County Council, £98,020; and Bournemouth Borough Council, £136,846.

Libraries Minister Rob Wilson said: “Libraries are important local assets that not only provide access to books, but are places where people can come together, be inspired and learn new skills. This programme is a fantastic example of how 21st century libraries can offer a range of services that benefit communities across the country and help build a shared society that works for everyone.

“We want libraries to think differently about how they serve people in their local areas. I have been impressed by the innovative projects put forward and I can’t wait to see them in action.”

Darren Henley, Chief Executive at Arts Council England added: “Libraries are brilliant for books and reading, and they are inclusive spaces where we can learn, create, and participate. This programme has provided us with a fantastic opportunity to fund new activities in libraries and reach people all over the country who might not usually use their local library service.

“We had a phenomenal response to the fund when it opened, there is a huge appetite for funding like this, and I’m looking forward to seeing these innovative projects come to life and make a real difference to everyone involved.”