Get Creative in Libraries!
We’re proud to be leading Rekindle Libraries, a nationally significant, Arts Council England-funded programme that’s been helping transform libraries into vibrant cultural spaces since 2023.
Running through to 2026, Rekindle puts libraries at the heart of creative and cultural experiences for rural and underserved communities across England.
National Collaboration
In partnership with libraries and arts organisations in Norfolk, Sandwell, Blackburn with Darwen, Medway, and Buckinghamshire, Rekindle is empowering libraries to connect more deeply with their communities by delivering high-quality, locally relevant arts experiences.
Creative Arts East and our arts partners Applause Rural Touring, Black Country Touring, Farnham Maltings, and Spot On Lancashire are working closely with local library services to embed creativity in everyday library life.
With strategic support from Libraries Connected, Suffolk Libraries, and the National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF), Rekindle is also commissioning new artistic work and building networks that will benefit the library and arts sectors well beyond the project’s lifespan.
“Creativity and culture are what defines a community. How it sees itself and the stories it tells and puts on the shelf. If a library is to be at the heart of a community, as it should be, then it is a paramount concern for all involved in running it.”
– Library staff member
Strengthening Skills, Sparking Innovation
Since its launch, Rekindle has been:
- Upskilling library staff to confidently programme and deliver cultural events
- Testing innovative models of audience engagement inside and beyond library walls
- Building lasting partnerships between libraries and their local arts ecosystems
This collaborative work is creating a sustainable foundation for the future of arts in libraries, ensuring they remain inclusive spaces for creative exploration and community connection.
From April 2023 to March 2026 Rekindle saw:
- 356 events supported
- 53,475 audiences interactions
- 54 libraries hosting events
- 20+ different artforms and approaches tested
- 150+ workforce arts and library professionals engaged in on-the-job training
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Upcoming events
What’s On in your local library?
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Our journey
Read more about our work bringing professional arts to library spaces
Explore more from Creative Arts East
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Our Impact
Our Impact
See what a difference the arts can make.
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Our Activities
Our Activities
Community touring and creative activities for people in all stages of their life.
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Our Purpose
Our Purpose
Improving quality of life through creativity.
