This Oldham 'little gem' could soon be Library of the Year

The “little gem” of a library, located on Chadderton Way, has been named North England regional and country finalist for the Library of the Year 2026.

Announcing the news on Facebook, the Oldham Libraries page wrote: “We can't quite believe that our little gem in Coldhurst, Northmoor Library, has been shortlisted as a North England Regional and Country Finalist for the Library of the Year!”

“A truly inclusive community space, where everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome in lovely surroundings - if you've not popped in yet, come down and see what the fuss is about.

“It's a lovely place to relax, read, spend time with your little ones, or bring your laptop and work.”

The awards are part of the British Book Awards, organised by The Bookseller, and aim to recognise the important role libraries play within our communities.

Oldham’s Northmoor Library was the recipient of a £168,000 Arts Council donation back in 2024, which helped transform the building and improve the facilities on offer, along with an additional £17,000 from the council.

As well as a new roof, doors, windows, and efficiency improvements, the money also provided a new study space and more computers.

Northmoor Library is in the running for the accolade along with eight other northern libraries in Hull, Bradford, Darlington, Waudby, Newcastle, Stockport, Redcar and North Yorkshire.

The winners will be announced on March 12.