The Community Managed Libraries National Peer Network helps community managed libraries (CMLs) to run effectively and successfully by sharing ideas, learning, experiences and inspiration.

No one understands community managed libraries better than the people and communities who fought to retain their local libraries and related services their communities want and need. The Network is made up of such people! We are from the full spectrum of CMLs including independently funded to those who receive local authority support. Our primary members are trustees or people who work in community managed libraries but can also include those wishing to form a trust or community groups exploring the possibilities of CMLs.

We came into existence with support from the Upper Norwood Library Trust, Libraries Connected, Locality, the Libraries Taskforce and funding from Power to Change: the national network supporting community organisations to be strong and successful.

Our Vision

To help community managed libraries thrive in their communities.

We want community managed libraries to

• be aware of, and able to grasp opportunities such as funding and advice
• provide mutual support and learning
• operate as effectively as possible, to make them sustainable in the long term

What we do

• help community managed libraries to learn from each other, exchange information and good practice
• collaborate to run learning and networking events
• create and share resources of benefit to community managed libraries
• provide a voice to raise issues that matter to community managed libraries,
• draw on learning and good working practices from other peer networks

Please read our Theory of Change here.

Meet the Team