Libraries are changing

We launched Love Libraries at the lovely Swiss Cottage library which won the Public Library Building Awards 2005.

There are lots of other new English libraries being built - around 60 in the next two years. Current proposals include major projects to refurbish or replace libraries in Barking, Bedford, Darlington, Exeter, Leeds, Liverpool, Luton, Middlesborough, Newcastle, Swindon, Wigan, Worcester and York.

Around 163 other refurbishments are being planned in the next two years.

And it’s not just the buildings that are changing. There’s a big new emphasis on making the library an interactive, community hub for reading. Visit the Designing Libraries website for more information about public library building projects. www.designinglibraries.org.uk

Readers groups

Lots of libraries run readers groups

Click here to find out if there's a library reading group near you

Author events

Lots of libraries have author events

Reader Activities

Readers’ days, reading chains, speed dating with books, parties to coincide with literary prize nights...there’ s lots going on in libraries

Family activities

Baby rhyme times, family reading groups, help with homework...go to the library for reading inspiration and quality family time

Watch out for the summer reading challenge, starting next month

Reading Mission

Tell me about libraries