Celebrating libraries
At Creative Arts East, we champion the role of libraries as vibrant community hubs and welcoming spaces where people of all backgrounds can access high-quality, inclusive, and inspiring arts experiences right on their doorstep.
“We believe that England’s network of public libraries provides a vital resource for the development of creativity and the promotion of culture across this country. They are the country’s most widespread and well-used cultural spaces, sitting at the heart of communities and often providing the first point of access to cultural activity. They help to build stronger, happier communities, support social prescribing, develop readers and promote digital literacy. They will be central to our delivery of this Strategy, and over the next 10 years we will increase our investment in them.”
– Let’s Create: Strategy 2020-2030. Arts Council England. 2020 (p22)
Previous Projects & Sector Development
TAIL: Touring Arts in Libraries
Creative Arts East was proud to be a partner in TAIL (Touring Arts in Libraries)—a national project led by the National Rural Touring Forum (NRTF) and funded by Arts Council England.
Completing in 2022, TAIL explored the potential of libraries as vibrant cultural spaces, especially in rural and underserved communities. The project celebrated the creative activities already happening in libraries across the UK and supported new approaches to bringing professional arts to these important community hubs.
Through collaboration with partners like Spot On Lancashire and Libraries Connected, the project:
- Shared best practice, resources, and expertise across the sector
- Helped libraries expand their arts programming and reach new audiences
- Strengthened national networks between libraries and arts organisations
TAIL also provided a wide range of support and opportunities, including training for library staff, artist development initiatives, marketing support, and commissioned performances.
National Online Training for Libraries
In 2020, we developed a Culture & Creativity Online Learning Module for Libraries Connected, giving library staff the tools to embed creativity and connect communities through cultural programming.
Libraries Touring Enquiry (2019)
Commissioned by Arts Council England, we explored the touring arts landscape in libraries across the Southeast. Our research shaped a set of key recommendations and resources to guide future work.
Related reads
Video Resources
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.
