The innovative and collaborative service provided by The City of Edinburgh Council Mobile Library Services, Oxgangs Library and Saughton Library (HMP Edinburgh) have been recognised in the Library of the Year Award presented by The British Book Awards.
The libraries got together to introduce a Secret Santa programme at HMP Edinburgh. Libraries provided gift-wrapped books for prisoners which were delivered by the Library Elf. This simple idea is aimed at improving mental health and supporting the rehabilitation goals on which the prison system works. This was a first for the UK and built on Edinburgh Library Service’s existing Empathy Lab’s Read for Empathy promotion and the National Library of Scotland’s Blind Date with a Book scheme.
Fifteen per cent of the prisoners in Saughton took part in the Secret Santa programme – with many being first time users of the mobile library service. The books came from existing book stock in the Oxgangs Library and Mobile Library. The cost of the whole project was £20 for wrapping materials.
Two other libraries were also finalists in the programme – Kirkliston and South Queensferry libraries were awarded for their work in helping young people make the move from primary school to secondary school with literacy promotions. And Craigmillar Library was shortlisted for its work with young people.
Philip Jones, editor of The Bookseller and chair of the judges for The British Book Awards, said: “This was a brave, bold and effective initiative built on partnership that delivered at a very human level, and showed – once again – the value of placing books at the very heart of our institutions.”
Karen Napier MBE, CEO, The Reading Agency said: “As vital community hubs, libraries offer unique experiences and opportunities that change the lives of all users, and I would like to recognise and celebrate every library service that entered this year’s award. The inspiring innovation and creativity happening in libraries, big and small across the country, made it a very tough job for the 2026 judging panel in choosing an overall winner! Many, many congratulations to City of Edinburgh Council Oxgangs Library, Saughton Library (HMP Edinburgh) & Mobile Library Services for winning the award for their Secret Santa project.
“This inspiring project engaged prisoners with the library, many for the first time, successfully and importantly supporting mental health through the proven power of reading. Really brilliant and impactful work, making a massive difference to the community they serve! I am also thrilled that the award this year comes with an additional £5,000 investment, with thanks to the support of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport with the English regional winners each receiving £1,000 in support of their work.”
Paul Kelly, CEO, DK said: ‘Congratulations to City of Edinburgh Council. This is a powerful example of libraries working in partnership to meet real human needs, reaching people in some of the most challenging circumstances. The collaboration between Oxgangs Library, Saughton Library at HMP Edinburgh and the Mobile Library Service shows the incredible impact libraries can have when they are embedded in their communities and responsive to them.
“The Secret Santa initiative is particularly moving, using books to help combat loneliness and support mental wellbeing at a time of year that can be especially difficult. It’s a reminder that libraries are not only gateways to reading, but essential spaces of care, dignity and connection. DK is proud to support an award that continues to highlight the vital and evolving role libraries play in our communities.”
The British Book Awards aka ‘the Nibbies’ has been the leading awards for the book trade since 1990.
The awards affirm, connect and energise all who have a hand in creating books and all who read them, by showcasing the authors and illustrators who have stirred our hearts and imaginations, and the industry behind the scenes who have brought them to readers. Judged by leading industry experts, authors, journalists and celebrities it is regarded as ‘the BAFTAs of the book trade’.or more information, visit: www.thebookseller.com/the-british-book-awards/the-british-book-awards-2026
