STRATFORD and Alcester libraries are in the running for Library of the Year.
The two libraries, grouped together as one award entry, have been selected as just one of ten regional and country winners in The British Book Awards 2025.
They achieved the award in the Midlands region category.
The service’s award nomination placed particular emphasis on Stratford and Alcester libraries’ Chatterbooks for Reluctant Readers programme, which has also been recently shortlisted for a Reading Award by Libraries Connected.
The programme is aimed at engaging with school children who may otherwise never attend their local library.
The overall Library of the Year award winner, out of the ten regional winners, will be announced at The British Book Awards ceremony on Monday May 12.
The Library of the Year award recognises libraries for their innovation, collaborations with publishers, businesses and other partners, and their ability to establish themselves as vital reading hubs that support local needs within their communities.
The award can recognise individual libraries as well as work done across library districts.
The award is sponsored by DK and delivered in association with The Reading Agency.
WCC’s customer spokesperson Coun Yousef Dahmash said: “This is fantastic news for Stratford and Alcester to be recognised on a national level, and I would once again like to congratulate our libraries staff who continue to deliver our enriching and vibrant library service offer.
“We are keeping our fingers crossed for the national Library of the Year award later in the spring but, whatever the outcome, we are already so proud of their achievement in winning the regional award.”
