Library Competition

Shape the future of your Library – and win ÂŁ500! 

Got an idea that could make the Library even better? We want to hear about it! Help us improve our services, spaces, and the student experience – for you and for future Surrey students too. 

Text: Next Chapter Challenge: You could win ÂŁ500, with lightbulb logo
Next Chapter Challenge: You could win ÂŁ500!

What’s it all about?

We’re inviting all current University of Surrey students to take part in our inaugural Library Next Chapter Challenge. This is your opportunity to share a bold, creative idea that could make a real difference to how the Library supports students. 

Whether it’s a new service, a space improvement, or a digital innovation – we want to hear from you! 

What's in it for you?

  • ÂŁ500 prize for the winning proposal
  • The chance to “pitch and win” and develop your creative, project management, and presentation skills
  • Collaborate with the Library staff to explore how your idea could be brought to life
  • Present your idea at our Grand Final on campus 

Save the date

Shortlisted finalists will need to be available to pitch their ideas (a 5-minute presentation) to a judging panel on Wednesday 25 March 2026. 

Any questions about the competition, please contact us: library@surrey.ac.uk 

How to enter

Submit your idea using our short application form - applications open at 08:00 on Monday 2 February 2026.

Deadline: 09:00 on Monday 23 February 2026 
Finalists will be notified by email from Monday 9 March 2026.

Top tips for your application:

Be distinctive – we’re looking for original, standout ideas 

Do your research – explore current Library services and how your idea builds on them 

Think practically – though we welcome big ideas, we are working with a limited budget so consider feasibility as well  

Be clear – write your application as if you are explaining it to someone for the first time; provide context and keep it concise 

Show your passion – tell us what inspired your idea, and why it matters 

Suggested themes

Need inspiration? Your idea could relate to: 

  • Space – make Library spaces more inclusive, accessible, or user-friendly
  • Sustainability – embed eco-friendly practices across services and spaces
  • Health & Wellbeing – support the wellbeing of our student community
  • Digital – enhance our digital services and tools
  • Collections – improve access to, or expand, our Library resources 

Ideas outside these themes are also welcome – we’re open to anything that sparks positive change.

Rules & Terms

See the full competition rules and terms & conditions.

Contact us

Got a question? We’re here to help. 
Email: Library@surrey.ac.uk 

 

FAQs

Do I have to submit an idea on a particular topic?

No, we’re looking for any ideas, digital or otherwise. If you think your idea will make a positive difference to the student experience, we want to hear about it!  

How do you choose the shortlisted ideas?

We have a range of criteria by which we shortlist the ideas to go forward to the judging panel. These include: the impact on the student experience, the feasibility of your idea, the originality of your idea and the detail you provide in your submission. You should address as many of these points as possible in your entry form.  

Can I submit images, videos or other media as part of my entry?

We welcome supplementary materials such as images or videos with your submission, although these are not mandatory. You must still complete the main body of the submission form - there will be an opportunity to add files at the end. 

Does my idea have to be completely original? What if it’s based on an idea from elsewhere?

It’s fine if your idea has been inspired by something that you’ve seen somewhere else, but you should acknowledge the source in your submission. Remember to tell us what makes the idea right for Surrey, and how you would adapt it to suit our University.  

What happens if similar ideas are submitted? How will you choose between them?

If the same (or very similar) ideas are submitted, we will select the submission which demonstrates more effectively the impact of the idea and provides a greater level of detail.  

Who will shortlist the submissions?

The submissions will be shortlisted by staff from University of Surrey Library 

Who will be on the judging panel?

The judging panel will comprise of the Chief Student Officer, Emma Rowsell; Director of Library and Learning Services, Paul Johnson and Student Voice Coordinator Victoria Wiltshire. None of the judging panel will have been involved in the shortlisting process. 

What happens if I can’t attend the event for the judging panel and awards ceremony?

Our expectation is that shortlisted candidates will be available to attend the final event, which will comprise pitches to the judging panel and the awards ceremony.  

If the winning entry is submitted by a group, do the members of the group receive ÂŁ500 each?

No, the prize money is shared between the group members.  

I have a question about the competition, who do I ask?

Please email library@surrey.ac.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.  

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