Libraries Rising Leaders Recognised in 2026 New Year Honours

We are delighted to announce that Annabel Gittins, Chair of Libraries Rising, and Anna Simmons, Treasurer, have both been recognised in the New Year Honours List 2026 for their outstanding contribution to libraries and young people.

This recognition celebrates their key role in guiding us through our transformation from the membership organisation Association of Senior Children’s and Education Librarians (ASCEL) into a registered charity, now rebranded as Libraries Rising.

Annabel Gittins, Chair, Libraries Rising said,

I am delighted to have my work as Chair of the Board recognised. Libraries Rising does such important work amplifying the voices of children and young people across library services in England and Wales. This award highlights the positive impact libraries have for children and young people in their communities. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues at Libraries Rising for their support and for putting me forward for this honour.

Anna Simmons , Treasurer, Libraries Rising said,

It’s a real privilege to be recognised alongside Annabel for our work in developing Libraries Rising. Transforming ASCEL from a membership association into a registered charity, now know as Libraires Rising has been an exciting journey. It has helped secure funding from Arts Council England as a Sector Support Organisation and allowed us to move from a volunteer-run group to one with an inaugural board and executive team. As a children’s librarian, I joined ASCEL in 2013 and have maintained my membership as I progressed through roles in Luton Libraries. I’ve always valued this collaborative network and the support it provides in delivering the best possible services for children and young people.

Our Chief Executive, Tabitha Witherick-Macaulay said,

I’m absolutely delighted to see Annabel and Anna recognised in the New Year Honours List 2026. Their leadership and care during a time of significant change for Libraries Rising has been unwavering. Their commitment, alongside the Board of Trustees, has been instrumental in developing Libraries Rising as a new charity, with children and young people at the heart of our work. As Chair and Treasurer, they have supported me with their knowledge, skill and time during my first 18 months as CEO, for which I’ll be forever grateful.

A Well-Deserved Honour

Annabel and Anna’s recognition in the New Years Honours list, is a reflection of their dedication to libraries, children and young people, and the ongoing work of Libraries Rising to ensure that young voices are heard and valued across library services.

This is a proud moment for us as an the organisation and a wonderful way to start the year, celebrating the people who make a real difference in communities across England and Wales.