Lambeth Libraries have been nominated as regional finalists in the prestigious British Book Awards 2025 “Library of the Year” contest
Lambeth Libraries have secured a place among London’s finalists in the highly esteemed British Book Awards 2025 Library of the Year contest. Often dubbed “the BAFTAs of the book trade,” these awards celebrate the exceptional contributions that libraries and librarians make to their communities.
Lambeth Libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are vibrant community hubs that offer a wide range of resources and activities
For Lambeth’s librarians, being shortlisted is a testament to their unique and innovative approach to managing their book collections. They prioritise purchasing titles that customers request, ensuring that their stock is as diverse as their readership. This customer-focused strategy not only meets the community’s needs but also fosters a sense of ownership and engagement among library users.
In addition to stocking popular titles, Lambeth Libraries actively support local publishers, sourcing books from both small and large publishers alike. This commitment to local literature not only enriches the library’s collection but also helps to promote local talent and preserve the cultural heritage of the area.
Lambeth Libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are vibrant community hubs that offer a wide range of resources and activities. These include book clubs, study spaces, computers, art shows, and storytelling sessions, all designed to foster a love of reading and learning among people of all ages.
Throughout the year, the libraries host a variety of events that celebrate diverse cultures and histories. For instance, during Black History Month and LGBTQ+ History Month, they organise author readings and other cultural events that promote inclusivity and understanding. The annual Readers and Writers Festival is another highlight, bringing together readers, writers, and enthusiasts for a celebration of literature and creativity. Lambeth is one of 36 libraries and library authorities shortlisted across nine regions of the UK. In London, they face competition from Newham and five other individual libraries. The selection process is rigorous, with a winner chosen from each region this month. The nine regional winners will then compete for the overall prize, with the winner announced on Monday, May 12, 2025.
“Our libraries are an incredibly important part of Lambeth’s communities, and we remain committed to improving the service despite the significant financial challenges facing local government.
Donatus Anyanwu, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities
Donatus Anyanwu, Cabinet Member for Stronger Communities, expressed his pride in Lambeth Libraries and their achievements. He said, “Our libraries are an incredibly important part of Lambeth’s communities, and we remain committed to improving the service despite the significant financial challenges facing local government. We spend £4 million a year on running libraries services and have invested an extra £4.7 million since 2022 to ensure they provide the best services for our residents.”
Anyanwu added, “Lambeth Libraries’ innovative ways of meeting the community’s needs and promoting a culture of reading deserve to be celebrated. Lambeth Libraries stands as a shining example of the crucial role libraries play in modern society. We eagerly await the regional results and wish them the best of luck for national success.”
British Book Awards judge Karen Napier, CEO of The Reading Agency, praised the finalists, saying, “These finalists represent the very best of what modern libraries can achieve, proving that libraries remain essential, dynamic spaces of learning, creativity, and community engagement, with reading at their heart.”
As the competition heats up, Lambeth Libraries are a strong contender, having demonstrated their commitment to innovation, community engagement, and the promotion of reading. Whether or not they take home the top prize, their achievements are already a source of pride for the residents of Lambeth and a shining example for libraries across the UK.
