Applications are invited to a programme which funds innovative projects in local libraries.

The Carnegie Library Lab is a programme created by the Carnegie UK Trust to support and develop innovation and leadership in the public library sector.

It is looking for applications from individual library staff working in early and mid-management roles across the UK and Ireland.

Successful applicants will work with us as Carnegie Partners for 18 months (May 2016-October 2017).

The Library Lab programme offers participants £5000-£15,000 in funding to help develop and implement innovative projects in public libraries or library services.

An online modular learning programme is available to support skills development.

Facilitated by an experienced a learning guide, topics covered include innovation, leadership, managing change and transition, and power and hierarchy.

Successful applicants will have a personal mentor to assist with project management and personal development.

A network will provide communication and networking opportunities for participants via online platforms and a small number of face-to-face meetings.

The programme aims to foster the development of a cohort of innovators that can share ideas and inspire one another.

An external evaluation of the projects to help participants to identify successes, challenges and how to take their work forward.

Successful projects could be shard or rolled out more widely.

Carnegie said it hoped that its partners would be "onward champions" for libraries and other innovative leadership projects.

The experience of the charity's current partners can be seen here.

The application window closes at 5pm on Friday, 29 January 2016.