Penarth Library shortlisted for Library of the Year Award

Penarth Library has been named as a finalist for Library of the Year award at The British Book Awards 2026.

It’s one of 42 libraries across the UK and Ireland to be shortlisted this year, and one of only three finalists from Wales. 

The British Book Awards are among some of the highest honours in the UK book industry, recognising excellence in publishing, bookselling and library services.

The Library of the Year category shines a spotlight on libraries that have made an outstanding difference to their local communities through creative programming, inclusive services and a passion for connecting people with books.

Highlighted in the submission for the award was an emphasis on the work within Penarth Library to encourage literacy among children and young people.

Penarth Library has been recognised for its long-running Children’s Reading Group Journey, a unique pathway supporting young readers from age seven through to their teens and into volunteering.

The library’s Chatterbooks reading group, part of a programme developed by the Reading Agency as an extracurricular activity, has been running for more than 20 years.

Through groups including Chatterbooks, BeTweens, and the Teen Reading Group, children and young people in Penarth develop a love of reading whilst building lasting friendships. Many participants remain involved for years, with older members returning as volunteers to mentor younger readers and support library events.

The initiative is said to have strengthened family engagement, increased book borrowing, and positioned the library as a welcoming hub for young people. At its heart, the journey creates not just confident readers, but a thriving community of young ambassadors for reading.

Cllr Rhiannon Birch, Cabinet Member for Education, the Arts and the Welsh Language, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Penarth Library has been shortlisted for the Library of the Year award at The British Book Awards 2026. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our wonderful staff, volunteers and residents who make the library such a vibrant community space.

“Our Children’s Reading Group Journey shows what can be achieved when young people are given the time, encouragement and inspiration to fall in love with reading. Seeing the children grow in confidence, return as volunteers, and become ambassadors for books is incredibly special. We are proud that Penarth Library continues to be a welcoming hub where stories bring people together.”

The Library of the Year award winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in London on Monday 11th May 2026.