Libraries across Nottinghamshire are being celebrated after earning top national recognition for the way they support local communities.
Nottinghamshire libraries, delivered by Inspire: Culture, Learning and Libraries on behalf of Nottinghamshire County Council, have achieved the highest possible rating in a national assessment – placing them among just 20 library services across England to achieve this accreditation.
The accolade, awarded through the Libraries Development Framework managed by Arts Council England, recognises services that demonstrate strong leadership, innovation, workforce development, and a positive impact on local communities.
The assessment praised Nottinghamshire libraries not only for their commitment to reading, but as welcoming community spaces supporting health, wellbeing, learning, digital skills and culture.
Over the last year, Inspire has continued to expand the role libraries play in everyday life across the county.
Health and wellbeing support has grown, with Health Hubs introduced in several libraries, delivered in partnership with ABL Health. Residents can access information, activities and workshops aimed at improving physical and mental wellbeing, as well as dementia‑friendly events and inclusive cultural activities.
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Families and children have also continued to benefit from a packed programme of reading and learning activities. Thousands of children took part in the Summer Reading Challenge 2025, while early‑years initiatives such as Bookstart helped introduce babies and toddlers to books and storytelling from an early age.
Libraries have also hosted hundreds of free and low‑cost events, including creative workshops, performances, heritage activities and community celebrations, helping to bring people together in towns and villages across Nottinghamshire.
Nottinghamshire’s libraries are also leading on a national stage, after Inspire was selected as one of only four library authorities in England to help shape a new government‑backed programme focused on digital inclusion and confidence with new technologies, including artificial intelligence. The work aims to ensure libraries remain trusted places where residents can get online, learn new digital skills and receive support in a rapidly changing world.
Behind the scenes, Inspire has also been recognised for the way it supports staff. In December, the organisation was named in the Top 100 Inclusive UK Employers Index, ranking 49th nationally for its commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive working practices.
These achievements support Nottinghamshire County Council’s long‑term Libraries Strategy, which aims to protect access to library services while modernising buildings, services and digital provision. Across the county, libraries continue to be delivered through a mix of professional staff, volunteers and community partnerships, ensuring they remain accessible, relevant and valued by residents.
Councillor Dawn Justice, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council said:
“Our libraries sit at the heart of local communities and offer so much more than just books. They are welcoming spaces where people can learn, connect, access support and enjoy cultural events.
“We are proud that the positive work taking place in Nottinghamshire’s libraries is receiving national recognition.
“This acknowledgement highlights the real difference our libraries make for residents and underlines the importance of continuing to invest in modern, accessible library services. Libraries are an important community asset, available to everyone with varying needs and interests, and the council remains committed to a strong library offer across Nottinghamshire.”
Peter Gaw, Inspire Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted and proud to have been one of the first library services to go through the accreditation framework and to be assessed as strongly met.
“This gives us a five-star rating, and evidences our ambition to provide a modern, relevant and customer focused library service that is routed in communities across Nottinghamshire. This is very much down to our great library teams and their drive and passion for culture and learning, our volunteers, board members and the ongoing support of the County Council.”
