Annual Report 2024–25

We are committed to widening participation and creating inclusive experiences. We create opportunities through internships, outreach and digital innovation. 

Supporting our partner institutions 

700 students from Leeds International Study Centre (LISC) and the Leeds Mathematics School (LMAS) benefitted from library inductions. 

This is a massive logistical operation each time, and impossible without your dedication to the administrative work, and enthusiasm at the inductions. Having the opportunity to study there is very much valued by those who do, and it ‘brings to life’ for all the students our partnership with the University…

Celebrating 10 years of Jumpstart 

This year we celebrate a successful 10-year partnership with Lifelong Learning, where we host 8-week courses for adults who are thinking of university study. Over that time we have: 

• adapted locations so students feel more at home within the library 
• established a fixed time for them to use our teaching rooms 
• extended membership to six months. 

Thank you so much for letting Jumpstart use your room. It's a great setting for our class and makes you feel like a proper student.

Student interns bridge barriers with direct engagement 

10 interns make the cultural collections and galleries more accessible for our students through direct engagement, using the exhibitions or collection items as inspiration. 

Our Galleries Student Intern is mentored to plan, promote, deliver and evaluate an event targeted at students and/or community groups. 

Our first Digital Communications Internship provides digital upskilling and career opportunities for a recent Leeds graduate, extending our reach on social media and bringing collections and stories to digital audiences. 

There are also eight shorter-term internships that delivered events and digital content, building skills and confidence. 

Digitally enhancing access onsite and online 

Our redesigned ‘Visit’ and ‘Access’ webpages now provide clearer, more comprehensive information for visitors with disabilities, making it easier for everyone to plan their visit. 

Our new Bloomberg Connects digital guide enriches the experience for online and onsite visitors. Through a mobile app, users can explore our art and culture with enhanced accessibility features, creating a more inclusive and engaging journey.