James Fisher and Zachary Wells, who work across libraries in Thanet, are finalists in this year’s Libraries Connected Awards, in the Children and Young People category, for their work with the Thanet District Representative Boys U12 and U13 football teams.
The pair created a collaboration which shows how libraries and grassroots sport can work hand‑in‑hand to support young people and their families. The partnership has opened the door to a group that can often be hard to reach, encouraging young players to explore library services, activities, and opportunities.
James, a Customer Service Officer, has led the project, building strong relationships with coaches and families to ensure the programme thrives. Zachary, a Customer Support Assistant just five months into his role, has gone above and beyond by organising activities outside library opening hours and even on his own time.
James Fisher and Zachary Wells are finalists in this year’s Libraries Connected Awards.
Both attended a match on their day off to strengthen community ties and were invited to select the team’s “man of the match”. They later welcomed the squad into the library for a trophy presentation, library tour, team‑building session and football‑themed quiz creating memorable moments that boosted confidence and community pride.
The young players proudly wear Know Your Neighbourhood (KYN) Kent Libraries‑branded kit. They have also been volunteering in libraries through ;Time to Give;, which offers enjoyable and worthwhile volunteering opportunities across Kent Libraries for all ages and experiences. KYN is a national initiative aimed at funding projects that widen participation in volunteering and tackle loneliness in 27 disadvantaged areas across England, including Thanet.
The partnership is also set to grow, with plans to include other young sports teams in the coming months.
The Libraries Connected Awards celebrate excellence across every public service in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Crown Dependencies, recognising teams and individuals who go above and beyond for their communities. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in June.
“Well done to James and Zachary who have shown exceptional creativity and commitment to actively engaging with young people.”
Georgia Foster, KCC’s 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 sense of community.”
Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said: “Huge congratulations to all the staff who have been shortlisted for the Libraries Connected Awards 2026.
“We had a record-breaking number of nominations this year and the range of projects put forward shows just how creative and committed library workers are, even in challenging times.
“It’s inspiring to see how staff respond to local needs, find new ways to connect people and ensure that libraries remain welcoming and trusted places for everyone. We’re delighted to recognise their achievements.”
About Libraries Connected
Libraries Connected is independent charity that supports, promotes and represents public libraries.
Their work is driven and led by membership, which includes every library service in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Crown Dependencies. As well as providing practical support, training and advice to libraries, they represent them to government and raise their profile in the media.
They also develop and lead national library projects with a range of cultural, academic and corporate partners. Part of its core funding in England comes from Arts Council England to help embed their Investment Principles across the library network.
Find out more at: www.librariesconnected.org.uk
