Bloomsbury Publishing announced as SLYA Sponsor

We are so excited to announce that Bloomsbury Publishing, one of the world's leading independent publishers, has come on board as sponsor of the Secondary School Librarian of the Year Award (SLYA) for the next three years, beginning with the Award's milestone 21st anniversary year.   

The School Librarian of the Year Award now sponsored by Bloomsbury Publishing is a cornerstone of recognition for secondary school library staff who dedicate themselves to promoting reading enjoyment, critical thinking and independent learning. Bloomsbury's sponsorship marks an exciting moment of celebration, as the Award enters its third decade. 

Victoria Dilly, CEO of the School Library Association said: “I am so pleased to welcome Bloomsbury as the new sponsor of the Secondary School Librarian of the Year Award. Through both their Bloomsbury Children’s and Bloomsbury Education imprints, they create titles that inspire, entertain and educate children and young people. School libraries are at the heart of nurturing the next generation of readers using titles just like this, and through our partnership we can celebrate both the exceptional staff, and the marvellous books that keep young people coming back to the library every day.”   

Nigel Newton, Founder and Chief Executive of Bloomsbury Publishing, said: “School librarians are essential guides in unlocking the potential of every child. At Bloomsbury, we not only publish books for children and teenagers but also educational and professional resources for librarians. We’re delighted to honour their dedication through our sponsorship of the School Librarian of the Year Award.” 

The judging panel for the School Librarian of the Year Award includes SLA member librarians, Gareth Conyard, Chair of the SLA Board of Trustees, and author, illustrator and SLA Patron, Steve Antony. A representative from Bloomsbury will also join the judges before they make their final decision.   

As a part of the sponsorship activity, a Bloomsbury Publishing author will guest host the Award ceremony, which will take place at The Story Museum in Oxford in November 2026. 

The ceremony will also celebrate the Peter Usborne Primary School Library of the Year Award and the SLA’s new Barrington Stoke Reader of the Year Award – the only national award celebrating young people who have overcome challenge to discover a love of reading. 

Read an interview with 2025 Secondary School Librarian of the Year, Julie Broadbent or find out more about Bloomsbury Publishing and see their latest new releases!