Westmeath Libraries is delighted to announce that Mullingar Library has been named as Library of the Year for the Island of Ireland by the British Book Awards 2025. This newly introduced award celebrates libraries that excel in engaging readers and implementing initiatives that deeply benefit their communities.
The award recognises Mullingar Library for its inclusive space, its opening hours through the My Open Library Service and its Library of Sanctuary status. In particular, it is celebrated for its staff-led ‘All Star Book Club’ for adults with Down Syndrome. “I was never a big reader in school but now I’m making time to read,” said one participant.
The British Book Awards, also known as the Nibbies, have been celebrating outstanding achievements in the book industry for over 30 years. The introduction of the Library of the Year award, sponsored by publisher DK and run in association with The Reading Agency, underscores the pivotal role libraries play in fostering literacy and community engagement.
As a regional winner, staff now have to wait for the overall winner to be revealed at The British Book Awards ceremony on May 12, 2025.
To find out more about Mullingar Library, why not drop in for a visit.
This article was published on: 13th March, 2025
Filed under: Library News
Tags: Mullingar