IFLA Public Library of the Year Award 2026 logoIt is with great pride we announce that James Bennett has stepped into the role of sponsor of the IFLA Public Library of the Year Award (PLOTY), a globally recognised celebration of the world’s most inspiring new public libraries, where design excellence meets genuine community impact. Each year, the PLOTY award shines a spotlight on libraries that set new international benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability, flexibility and user experience.

With more than 60 years’ experience partnering with public, academic, state and national libraries across Australia, New Zealand and internationally, James Bennett is Australia’s leading library supplier. Guided by the belief that great libraries change lives, James Bennett delivers end-to-end collection support, spanning print and digital content, value-added services, workflow expertise and innovative library solutions, helping libraries drive engagement, maximise return on investment and deliver trusted, community-focused outcomes.

The commitment of James Bennett to sponsor PLOTY for the next five years is a great step forward for the three IFLA sections that manage the award. This ensures ongoing celebration of excellence in library design and function. We are eager to work with our new sponsor with a shared passion to enhance the award.

—Jane Cowell, Tommi Laitio, and Philip Kent
Chairs of IFLA’s Public Libraries, Metropolitan Libraries, and Library Design Sections

Each year, this award shines a spotlight on libraries, that set new international benchmarks for accessibility, sustainability, flexibility, and user experience. It is with great pride that James Bennett steps into the role of main sponsor of the IFLA Public Library of the Year Award, a globally recognized celebration of the world’s most inspiring new public libraries, where design excellence meets genuine community impact.

—Kim Jardine
General Manager, James Bennett Pty Limited

Through its sponsorship of PLOTY and ongoing engagement with IFLA, James Bennett recognises the critical importance of supporting international dialogue on the opportunities and challenges shaping public libraries, from sustainability and digital transformation to equity of access and long-term relevance.

This shared focus on the future of libraries underpins James Bennett’s approach to sustainability, extending beyond environmental responsibility to a deep commitment to strengthening the entire library ecosystem so it remains resilient, relevant and impactful for generations to come. By aligning values, purpose and action, this sponsorship ensures that the Public Library of the Year Award continues to recognise not just exceptional buildings, but the ideas, leadership and communities that will shape the next generation of libraries worldwide.

IFLA is delighted to have James Bennett as sponsor and partner for this prestigious IFLA award and looks forward to developing our relationship over the coming years.

A call for applications begins on 18 February 2026, so watch this space!

Sharon Memis
IFLA Secretary General