Sue Carmichael from Tunbridge Wells was crowned the winner of the Reading category in this year’s Libraries Connected Awards.
She was honoured for her work championing book clubs in Kent which are part of Beyond Words – a charity that co-creates word-free picture stories to empower people with learning disabilities.
Sue runs the book clubs in 10 libraries across Kent which allow readers to tell stories using their own methods of communication so everyone can benefit regardless of barriers.
One attendee said they would not have considered joining a book club until they discovered the Books Beyond Words group in Deal Library.
Aisha Affejee, Sue Carmichael and James Pearson at the Libraries Connected Awards
Since starting, their confidence grew so much that they went on to become an author of a Beyond Words publication called The Book Club.
The Libraries Connected Awards 2025 celebrate the achievements of library workers nationally who have had an exceptional impact on their library service, users or their local communities.
Sue received her award on Tuesday night at a ceremony at Chesford Grange Hotel in Warwickshire.
The winners were chosen by an expert panel including Luke Burton, Director, Libraries at Arts Council England, Debbie Hicks, Creative Director at The Reading Agency and Lucy Banks, Programme Manager at the Association of Senior Children’s and Education Librarians.
KCC’s Head of Libraries, Registration and Archives James Pearson said: “We are very proud of Sue and we are very lucky to have her enthusiasm as part of the service. Her dedication is an outstanding example of putting inclusion at the heart of delivering library services.
“Thanks also go to Aisha Affejee and the Dover team who are a key part of this award and support Sue and all her work.
“Overall, Kent was shortlisted three times in the Libraries Connected Awards this year including for the Know Your Neighbourhood scheme in Thanet and for Digital clubs for young people at Gravesend Library. To be highlighted as National best practice across all these areas is a proud moment for all of us.”
“... Sue’s approach and attitude to her volunteering role is exemplary and creates a warm and welcoming environment that puts inclusivity at the heart of the community.”
Paul Webb, Cabinet Member for Community and Regulatory services said: “Sue’s approach and attitude to her volunteering role is exemplary and creates a warm and welcoming environment that puts inclusivity at the heart of the community.
“Sue has used her expertise and experience to nurture, support and encourage the attendees of groups to gain the full benefits of participating in a book group and using library services.”
To find out more about Beyond Words, visit: https://www.booksbeyondwords.co.uk/
To find out more about the Libraries Connected Awards 2025, visit: https://www.librariesconnected.org.uk/news/libraries-connected-awards-2025-winners-revealed
