​Libraries which offer projects which engage the public in health matters offered £150,000 funding pot

One of the UK’s largest trusts has joined forces with one of the biggest medical research charities in the world to offer Scottish libraries the chance to compete for cash in a £150,000 funding programme.

The Carnegie UK Trust and Wellcome have teamed up to launch Engaging Libraries which wants to help public libraries which have projects promoting health and wellbeing and creative public engagement.

They are looking to support 10 UK libraries for one year with projects that seek to engage people on issues like understanding how the brain works, exploring how to cope with a long term illness, or sharing experiences of IVF treatment through engaging.

Activities might include exhibitions, film screenings, performances or the development of digital tools.

Carnegie UK Trust has been a long-time supporter of libraries.

Its founder, Andrew Carnegie, built over 600 across the UK and Republic of Ireland and the trust continues to deliver a wide range of programmes to support public libraries.

Martyn Evans, chief executive of Carnegie UK Trust, said: “Public libraries provide a safe, trusted space at the hearts of communities. They are well placed for engaging the public in health and wellbeing and already make a significant positive contribution to the cultural and physical health of communities.

“We are excited to be working with Wellcome to develop and deliver a new programme that builds on the existing assets of public libraries.”

Simon Chaplin, director of culture and society at Wellcome, said: “We are delighted to be working with Carnegie UK Trust to support libraries to try new ways of engaging the public with health and wellbeing topics.

“Libraries are a much loved and important part of every community, providing a unique space for people to learn, explore and discuss the world around them. We’re excited to see what creative ideas emerge.”

Applications will be open from 2 May until 23 August 2017. Library staff interested in applying are invited to a workshop where they can receive further information and support to develop ideas. In Scotland the workshop will be held in Dunfermline on 18 May 2017. More information can be found on the Carnegie UK Trust website.