The Library Innovation Competition is officially open
Calling all students: submit your ideas to improve the Library!
Following the success of the first Library Innovation Competition, we’re launching the competition again to ask you for more ideas to enhance our service or buildings!
The initiative gives you, as individuals or teams of up to three, the opportunity to submit proposals to improve our Libraries. The winning idea will receive a grand prize of £1,000 as well as the prestigious title of ‘Library Innovation Champion(s)’.
Last year, the shortlisted submissions included ideas for apps that made student access to digital information more accessible and offered peer-to-peer tutoring, improvements to library spaces to alleviate visual fatigue and an initiative to showcase student’s creative achievements.
The first competition winner suggested an idea to improve student engagement through library tours and a book and movie club. The Libraries is currently working to implement the book club element of the suggestion.
Your proposal could cover topics including, but not limited to, digital solutions, wellbeing initiatives or ideas to make the Libraries more inclusive, accessible or inspiring. Whatever idea you may have, we want to hear it and give you the chance to have an influence on the Libraries and our services!
This is a brilliant opportunity to have a positive impact on the Libraries, as well as to gain career-building skills; such as writing, presenting and public speaking. Even by just entering, you will gain experience in writing applications and communicating your ideas.
We will shortlist up to five entries from the submissions. As a shortlisted finalist, you’ll get mentoring support to develop your idea and create a pitch to present at a live event in March 2027. A judging panel of University and Libraries staff will choose a winner to be awarded the title of Library Innovation Champion and £1,000 (runners-up will receive £500 and £250).
If you have even the beginnings of an idea – start your entry today! Submissions are open until Monday 23 November. Read the Library Innovation Competition FAQs and enter now.
