Devon County Council has launched two new grant programmes as part of a wider investment in the future of libraries, creating opportunities for communities to develop local activities, improve library spaces and strengthen libraries as community hubs.
The Re-imagined Library Spaces Fund and the Enhanced Library Offers Grant Fund have a combined budget of £300,000 to help transform libraries into more accessible, welcoming and inclusive community spaces.
Re-imagined Library Spaces Fund
There is a total budget of £200,000 for investment in accessible, flexible and sustainable community assets. You can apply for up to £20,000 to:
- improve access to library buildings and services
- create more welcoming and inclusive spaces
- increase community use of buildings
- support collaboration between organisations
- improve the long-term sustainability of library spaces
- enable new and innovative uses of library spaces and add value
The funding can be used for refurbishment and internal reconfiguration, accessibility improvements, creating flexible spaces, co-locating partner services, energy efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Applications can be made by Friends of Library groups, community and voluntary organisations, registered charities, CICs, social enterprises, Town and Parish Councils, public-sector organisations, partnerships involving libraries and community groups, and businesses delivering projects with clear community benefit.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Grants of up to £20,000 for projects that improve library buildings and related community spaces in Devon
Application deadline:
Round 1: Expressions of Interest by 15 December 2026. Round 2: Opening in January 2027
Fund description:
https://www.devon.gov.uk/communities/re-imagined-library-spaces-fund/