Founded by the British Library, the Living Knowledge Network (LKN) is a growing partnership of UK public libraries united by a shared mission: to support libraries as beacons in their communities, spaces of discovery, dialogue and inspiration. Linked to a major BL exhibition in London, Unearthed: The Power of Gardening LKN pop-up exhibition and events programme took place in 80 libraries nationally, including 4 prison libraries, reaching 800,000+ people in 2025. The themes of gardening and connection to the natural world resonated deeply with both audiences and library staff, reinforcing the sense of libraries being positive and welcoming spaces, especially for families.
The Unearthed season changed the way LKN libraries connected to green spaces and expanded existing sustainability work in new and engaging ways. Unearthed also blurred boundaries between inside and outside library spaces by reinvigorating library gardens and building long-lasting partnerships with community gardening groups, nature charities and local parks.
