The Government has announced a funding boost of up to £150,000 to support public libraries as part of the National Year of Reading 2026.
The targeted funding will be directed at the 72 library authority areas most in need to unlock opportunities, support learning and skills development, and widen access to books and digital services free of charge.
In addition to this investment, each of the five English regional winners of The British Book Awards Library of the Year will receive an extra £1,000 to continue local reading projects that champion civic pride and community engagement.
Libraries Minister, Baroness Twycross said: ‘Ahead of publishing our new strategy for public libraries later this year, this funding will help our libraries reach even more people in their communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, can experience the joy of reading and the benefits of our local libraries.’
