Inspire
Inspire at 10 Exhibition Beeston Library
Inspire at 10: Celebrating a Decade of Culture, Learning and Libraries
Published 13th October 2026
Inspire is celebrating its 10th birthday with two showcase events highlighting a decade of achievements and the organisation’s impact on communities across Nottinghamshire.
Wednesday 14 October, Mansfield Central Library - free Inspire member tickets still available! Book your ticket.
Wednesday 4 November, Beeston Library
Created by Nottinghamshire County Council in 2016, Inspire was established to bring together libraries, adult and community learning, music, culture, heritage, and youth arts under one innovative organisation. Ten years on, it has grown into a nationally recognised service, delivering thousands of events, courses and activities each year and supporting residents of all ages to read, learn, create and connect.
Hosted by journalist and broadcaster Geeta Pendse, the events will feature performances by young people from Inspire Music and Inspire Youth Arts. Guests will also discover more about Inspire’s impact on communities, learners and schools across Nottinghamshire. The events will be attended by key stakeholders, staff and Inspire members.
Inspire will premiere a new film celebrating 10 years of achievements, including:
- 19 million library visits
- 133,000 events delivered in libraries
- 24 libraries refurbished
- Library Development Framework accreditation from Arts Council England in 2026.
- 400+ volunteers who have supported communities through Community Makers
- 87,000 adult learners supported – and recognised with two ‘Good’ Ofsted ratings
- 2,700 Inspire College students – with English and maths resit results consistently above the national average
- 128,000 pupils have taken part in singing activity with Inspire Music
- 104,000 archives viewed at Nottinghamshire Archives
Quote from Peter Gaw, Chief Executive of Inspire: “Reaching our 10th birthday is a proud moment for Inspire and for Nottinghamshire. Over the past decade, we have grown into a dynamic, creative and inclusive organisation that delivers real impact in the communities we serve. Our staff, volunteers, partners and members are at the heart of everything we do, and their commitment has made this milestone possible.
From libraries and learning to culture, music and heritage, Inspire has helped people read, learn, create and connect in ways that enrich lives. The next decade brings huge potential. We’re excited to build on this success and reach even more people and places.”
Event host, Geeta Pendse commented: “From baby rhyme classes to picking up a good read, I know first-hand how valuable these services are to our communities. I'm really looking forward to celebrating the impact they have made and all the hard work behind-the-scenes.”
Looking ahead
As Inspire looks to the future, it has an opportunity to build on this successful model and reach even more people and places. Inspire’s Forward Plan 2026–28 sets out how the organisation will continue to develop its sustainable, community-focused and innovative approach to culture and learning.
