National awards for Staffordshire community managed libraries

Two Community Managed Libraries (CML) in Staffordshire have scooped national awards.

Both Norton Canes Library and Rising Brook Library have been recognised in The National Community Managed Library Network Annual Awards 2024.

Norton Canes CML picked up the Community Hub award for their work in delivering a diverse range of services to their local community beyond the traditional library offer.

They were particularly highlighted for their Rhythm Time project and their Health and Wellbeing Garden.

Rising Brook CML in Stafford were also given an award for the work of their volunteers who through community engagement have significantly improved the overall performance and use of the Library.

Both libraries are managed by Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust who manage nine of the county’s libraries.

Victoria Wilson, cabinet member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council said: “This is a wonderful achievement and I’d like to pass on my congratulations to the staff and volunteers at both libraries.

“Our 27 Community Managed Libraries play a vital role within local communities and it’s this partnership working that makes it such a success story.  We continue to invest in our libraries to make sure we provide the best service possible.

“Libraries continue to evolve and innovate, explore new technologies and staff and volunteers work incredibly hard right across the county delivering a huge range of services.  Once again, it’s great to see this work being recognised nationally.”

Mark Cardwell, care integration and partnerships director from Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are thrilled that these two libraries have been recognised nationally for their excellent work at the heart of our communities.

“This success is a joint effort with our county council Partners, but most importantly with the volunteers who make the libraries come alive and support them on a day to day basis.

“Well done to all involved and we look forward to all our community managed libraries continuing to thrive and serve our communities in the best way we can.

Staff and volunteers will attend a special awards ceremony on Wednesday 9 October at Badbury Park Community Managed Library in Swindon. 

To find out more about your local library please visit our libraries webpage.

Pictured: Volunteers of Rising Brook library