East Lothian Libraries is in the spotlight as the shortlist is announced for the annual Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) Awards.
Celebrating the teams and projects transforming communities across the country, from innovative literacy programmes to inclusive community hubs, this year’s nominees showcase how libraries are evolving to meet local needs, spark creativity and improve wellbeing.
Judged by an independent panel, led by SLIC Chair Alan Clarke, alongside guest judges Garrett Baylor Stell, education journalist, and Scottish author and presenter Helen Cross, renowned for her work promoting libraries and literacy across Scotland, the SLIC Awards 2025 recognise library teams and projects that go beyond traditional services, driving social impact, learning and inclusion across Scotland.
Showcasing their creativity, innovation and community impact, eight services have been shortlisted across two categories – Team of the Year and Project Excellence – including East Lothian Libraries, shortlisted for Team of the Year 2025 due to their community centred services, showcasing how the library service has supported both public and school libraries while addressing local challenges.
Despite budget pressures and reduced staffing, the team maintained high quality provision across 12 libraries and seven secondary schools, integrating school and public library services, delivering tailored community programmes and fostering strong partnerships with health, education and third sector organisations.
Initiatives ranged from dementia-friendly groups and digital inclusion sessions to innovative activities like gardening clubs, mending workshops and family learning cafés.
The team also advanced literacy strategies through Reading Schools accreditation and bespoke school library policies, while ensuring inclusive, flexible services for vulnerable groups.
With increased visits, broad community engagement and strong evidence of impact, East Lothian Libraries has positioned themselves as trusted hubs for learning, wellbeing and resilience.
Guest judge Helen Cross commented: “This is a team that has shown what can be achieved through new initiatives and thinking outside the box, while also making a positive impact on those they reach.”
The others shortlisted for ‘Team of the Year 2025’ are –
- East Dunbartonshire Leisure and Culture Trust – Transforming community engagement in Milngavie and Lennoxtown: Revitalised local libraries through events, crafts and mindfulness sessions, turning quiet spaces into bustling community hubs.
- University of the West of Scotland Library Service – Service review implementation: Modernised services to focus on learning, research and student engagement, creating specialist teams and stronger institutional impact.
- Aberdeenshire Libraries – HMP Grampian Prison Library Team: Developed a ‘Foreign Language Prison Phrase Book’, improving communication, inclusion and safety in the prison environment.
The four projects shortlisted for the ‘Project Excellence 2025’ award are –
- Live Borders Libraries – Mobile libraries summer storytelling: Brought Bookbug and storytelling sessions to over 1,000 children and families across the Borders during summer holidays.
- East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure – Sensory magic: Introduced sensory-friendly spaces and features for neurodivergent visitors, providing a model for inclusive library services.
- Glasgow Women’s Library – Opening the door: Celebrated adult literacy learners through exhibitions, film and creative workshops, boosting confidence and community engagement.
- South Ayrshire Libraries – Girvan Library Lend + Mend Hub: Created a hub for borrowing tools, mending and upcycling, tackling social isolation and promoting sustainability in the community.
SLIC chair, Alan Clarke (above), who is leading the judging panel, said: “The SLIC Awards celebrate the remarkable work of library teams and projects across Scotland, recognising the difference they make in enriching learning, wellbeing and community connection.
“This year’s shortlist highlights services that continue to evolve, delivering inclusive, imaginative and highly impactful initiatives that respond directly to the needs of the people they serve. It’s inspiring to see excellence in action through outstanding service, collaborative teamwork and innovative project delivery that truly makes a lasting difference.
“Congratulations to the eight services shortlisted for the 2025 SLIC Awards. We look forward to inviting the nominees to celebrate their achievements with us when we announce the award winners at our Showcase and AGM next month.”
These shortlists will be whittled down to just one winner and one highly commended for each category at the SLIC AGM and Showcase on 31 October where services will be recognised for their outstanding commitment and strategic approach to ensuring library services continue to add value to the community.
The SLIC Awards are open to all SLIC member libraries, which includes public library services, many further education and higher education libraries, and specialist libraries throughout Scotland, with winners receiving a trophy and cash prize for demonstrating exceptional innovation and service design for activity undertaken between June 2024 and June 2025.