Hot on the heels of the award for Library of Sanctuary, Newham Libraries picked up another prestigious title, named as winners in the ‘Information and Digital’ award at the Libraries Connected Awards.
The award recognises the work of Natasha Nelson, Shibu Raj and Muireann Mcmenamy in the digital inclusion team – which has been working to break-down barriers that stop residents accessing online and digital services.
Councillor Charlene McLean, Cabinet member for Resident Engagement and Resident Experience said: “Wow two awards in two weeks – the Libraries team are really knocking it out of the park!
“Those of us that use the libraries here in Newham know what a great service they provide – reaching out into the community to engage residents and really improve lives. Now they are being recognised on the national stage which is brilliant and richly deserved.”
Libraries Connected said: “The Newham team have developed a range of services for residents experiencing Digital exclusion by listening to and responding to their needs.
“Over the last year, this has gone from strength to strength and has included establishing a digital champions network with frontline team members; creating volunteering opportunities; upskilling frontline colleagues in digital skills training.”
The team has also established a device refurbishment scheme; and working with the Voluntary and Community sector (VCS) to increase reach.
The winners were chosen by an expert panel including Luke Burton, Director, Libraries at Arts Council England, Debbie Hicks, Creative Director at The Reading Agency and Lucy Banks, Programme Manager at the Association of Senior Children’s and Education Librarians. They were joined by several Heads of Library Services as well as representatives from OverDrive, the headline sponsor of the Awards for the fourth year in succession.
Isobel Hunter MBE, Libraries Connected Chief Executive, said: “At our Awards ceremony, I am delighted anew by the determination and creativity of public library staff. This year’s winners and runners-up stand out for their unwavering commitment to providing a service to their local communities that goes far above and beyond the requirements of their job specifications. Library staff continue to work in difficult, straitened financial circumstances, making their achievements all the more remarkable.”
