The government has introduced “Culture Priority Places” to help target cultural funding and activity towards areas with the greatest need, based on lower levels of cultural engagement and higher deprivation.
This approach will not limit funding only to these areas, but it will influence how investment is prioritised across different programmes. One example is the Libraries Improvement Fund, where applications from priority places receive additional consideration as part of the assessment process.
For community managed libraries, the key implication is that location may now play a more significant role in funding decisions. While CMLs are usually not eligible to apply directly, you can work with local authorities, being in a priority place could strengthen a wider application that includes community libraries as partners or delivery sites.
The list of Culture Priority Places covers a wide range of local authority areas across England and reflects a broader shift towards place‑based funding. This means demonstrating local need, community impact and alignment with local priorities will become increasingly important.
While the current focus is mainly on funding, this approach may shape future policy and support. For CMLs, it highlights the importance of working closely with local authorities, understanding local priorities, and ensuring the role of community libraries is clearly included in wider funding and development plans.