Justin Tomlinson speaks at the Awards event
Justin Tomlinson MP today hosted library professionals and users from all over the country on the Terrace of the House of Commons to celebrate the difference libraries can make to individuals and communities.
Speaking at the event, Justin Tomlinson MP said “This award is a fantastic way for libraries across the country to promote and share best practice. I am an avid supporter of libraries but with falling user numbers and the advent of e-books, it is a challenge. Libraries need to re-invent themselves in order to attract new users and these awards are a fantastic way to showcase how library services from Yorkshire to Norfolk to London are doing this.”
Now in its 21st year, the Libraries Change Lives Award is open to all UK libraries and serves to recognise positive achievements and promote outstanding library-based initiatives enriching lives and strengthening communities.
This year, three fantastic projects were shortlisted for the award. In Norfolk, the Library Service has been working with local hospitals and the museum service to create ‘Reminiscence Kits’ that can be loaned out to library users. These kits are collections of objects, music, scents and photographs designed to remind dementia sufferers of events in their life and allow their loved ones to share meaningful exchanges.
The Skipton Library has launched a ‘Rewind Club’ which gives young people a chance to meet with library staff, musicians and youth workers to develop their songwriting skills. Originally aimed to last 10 weeks, the Club is still going 18 months later and has given young people in Skipton not only a safe place to go, but also confidence, friendships and skills.
Lambeth Library Service has been running a community based ‘Digital Bazaar’ in the Tate South Lambeth Library. Once a month, the community around the library gather to share skills and to learn about all things digital, from using a mobile phone to photo-editing. The project has been so successful that other local authorities are looking to launch their own bazaars.
The winner was announced by Culture Minister Ed Vaizey, who congratulated the Skipton Library and its young musicians, presenting them with their prize. The young musicians received £4000 towards the Rewind project, with the two runners up each receiving £1500.
Linda Constable, Chair of the Libraries Change Lives judging panel said “This year our fantastic nominees highlight the rich fabric of modern society and the library’s continued importance within that.”
You can view a short video about each of the finalists at http://www.youtube.com/user/CILIPMarketing