The Rylands

The University of Manchester Library Awards, known as ‘The Rylands’ will be presented as part of the Library’s Annual Conference event in June 2025.

Nominations will be received across eight categories. A short summary of each category can be found below.

Nominate a colleague for a Rylands Award (Microsoft Form)

Award categories

1. Above and Beyond Award

For an individual or group that has shown the most initiative and desire to go above and beyond the duties of their role.

2. Creative Approach Award

For an individual or group that has demonstrated unusual levels of creativity or innovation in their role or on a project.

3. Inspirational Action Award

For an individual or group that has taken a course of action or responded to a situation that has inspired others to think or act differently.

4. Social Responsibility Award

For an individual or group that has made a successful contribution to furthering the University’s social responsibility goals and / or has made a difference to a particular section of the community, the environment etc.

5. Equity, Diversity and Inclusivity Initiative Award

For an individual or group that has made a significant difference in promoting EDI by working with our communities within the Library and / or beyond.

6. Scholarship Award

For an individual or group that has made an outstanding contribution to sector thinking and practice by presenting, publishing or otherwise sharing their work.

7. Outstanding Newcomer Award

For the individual member of staff who has joined the Library since July 2024 and made an outstanding initial contribution either on a particular project or by visibly embracing our University’s core values.

8. Turing AI Partnership Award

For an individual or group, internal or external to the Library that has shown significant innovation through partnerships in the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Recipients for the following award categories have been selected by Library Executive Team.

Enriqueta and John Rylands Staff Member of the Year Award

For the individual member of staff that has made the most significant contribution to the Library this year by visibly embracing our University’s core values.

Enriqueta and John Rylands Team of the Year Award

For the Team that has made the most significant contribution to the Library during the course of the year by visibly embracing the University’s core values.

Enriqueta and John Rylands Outstanding Professional Contribution Award

An external award to be presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the sector / profession either on a particular project or throughout their career to date.