The Libraries Connected Awards recognise the work of library staff who are making a real difference in their communities. The winners were announced at a ceremony on Tuesday 9 June at the Chesford Grange Hotel in Warwickshire.
We are proud and delighted to announce James Fisher and Zachary Wells, from Kent Libraries, were named winners in the Children & Young People Award category for their work engaging young people through an innovative partnership with grassroots football teams in Thanet.
James and Zachary have successfully connected library services with Thanet District Representative Boys U12 and U13 teams, creating new ways to reach young people and their families. The initiative has brought reading and library activities into sporting environments, encouraging players to engage with services, take part in volunteering opportunities, and build confidence and better connect the local community and foster real pride in place.
Zachary Wells and James Fisher won at the Libraries Connected Awards.
Their creative approach has helped open libraries up to audiences who can often be harder to reach, demonstrating how sport and reading can work hand-in-hand to support young people’s development.
These national awards saw submissions from public libraries from across the county and are a real showcase of the positive impact libraries and their brilliant teams achieve. Winning highlights the national best practice work James and Zach have delivered. They were recognised alongside bestselling author Kate Mosse CBE, who was named Public Library Champion 2026 for her work supporting reading and libraries.
“Well done to James and Zachary who have shown exceptional creativity and commitment to actively engaging with young people.”
Richard Palmer, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory Services, said: “Well done to James and Zachary who have shown exceptional creativity and commitment to actively engaging with young people. Their dedication has made the library an inclusive space, where children, families and vulnerable individuals feel welcome and are supported. Their joint efforts have not only increased library visits from this age group but also fostered a strong sense of community.”
Libraries Connected Chief Executive Isobel Hunter MBE said: “Huge congratulations to all this year’s Libraries Connected Award winners and runners-up. In a year with a record number of nominations, this is a really significant achievement. Our Awards highlight the vital role libraries play in supporting their communities, but above all they recognise the people whose commitment and creativity make that impact possible.”
