The Love Libraries award moves towards an exciting climax today with the final
five facing a public vote to decide the winner. The award celebrates the work libraries do with young people and attracted 48 nominations across England.
The winner of the Love Libraries award will receive a Trophy and £2,000 towards the project.
Voting starts on Monday 13th August and closes on Friday 14th September with the winner being announced at an awards ceremony in London on Wednesday 3rd October.
The five finalists are:
1. Urban Art at Birmingham Central Library
Birmingham Library staff hold regular creative workshops for a group of young homeless people. With the support of a local artist they have created a vibrant display of urban art outside the building offering a taster of what’s inside to attract young people.
Brian Gambles, Head of Birmingham Libraries, Birmingham City Council said:
“The Urban Art project has shown the results that can be achieved by libraries working with disengaged youth and community groups. The graffiti work has attracted a lot of interest and is a great tool for promoting the service in a youth-orientated art form. We are pleased that the young people from St Basil’s are eager to continue working with us and we look forward to seeing new developments from them in the future.”
2. Book Pushers in Derbyshire Libraries
Derbyshire Libraries Book Pushers are teenage reading advocates trained by library staff to spread their love of reading among young people. They give presentations in schools and libraries; influence the selection of library books; produce creative displays of their recommended reads; deliver training for library staff to help improve services and encourage more people to discover all the great things libraries have to offer.
Jaci Brumwell, Deputy Director Cultural and Community Services, Derbyshire County Council said:
“The Book Pushers are enthusiastic advocates promoting both the love of books and reading and the use of libraries. The young people involved have grown in confidence, developed new skills and encouraged many others to experiment with their reading.”
3. Youth Forum in Grangetown Library
Grangetown library hold a monthly Youth Forum where young people can have their say about what’s hot and what’s not in their local community and get actively involved in making it a safer place to live. They have designed an outdoor garden and play area with plants and seating to make the library a more enjoyable place to spend time.
Carol McIntosh, Chief Communication, Information and Engagement Officer, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council said:
“I am delighted to commend Grangetown Library for the Love Libraries Award. For young people the library represents a safe space in which they can take part in positive activities and become empowered. Much of the Library’s success is due to the staff’s ability to really engage with them and act as passionate and credible advocates in order to develop partnerships which can deliver real outcomes.”
4. Variety Shows in Lambeth Libraries
Lambeth Libraries are entertaining young people with evening variety shows that showcase the local talents of singers, dancers, poets, performers and musicians in a safe environment. Lambeth libraries are also hosting youth debates giving young people an opportunity to voice their opinions on issues close to their hearts, such as the influence of Rap music on youth culture.
Sandra Davidson, Senior Children and Young People’s Services Librarian, London Borough of Lambeth said:
“If Lambeth Libraries were selected for the Love Libraries Award it would enable our continued commitment of library services to young people. The key elements we have learnt from working with young people is listening to what they say and treating them with respect to make a positive contribution. Young people have varying needs for library use, which includes a place to study with appropriate resources, a safe place to be in, as well as a community place to enjoy an evening of entertainment.”
5. Get it Loud in Libraries at Lancaster Library
Lancaster Library is offering a library experience with a difference with some of the hottest new bands performing in the library. The gigs are bringing in diverse crowds, introducing people to all the great things the library has to offer, and sending them away with smiles on their faces.
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