Will you join us for a Wee Read?
On 7 October 2026, people across Scotland will come together for one shared moment to celebrate the joy of reading and the positive difference it can make to our wellbeing, learning and everyday lives.
Scotland is being invited to celebrate the joy of reading as a new national library campaign launches with one simple ask: make a pledge to read.
Wee Read, taking place on Wednesday 7 October 2026, will bring together people of all ages, interests and abilities for a collective celebration of reading for pleasure – whether that means getting lost in a novel, flicking through a magazine or comic, finding new recipe inspiration in a cookbook or finally getting round to the manual that’s been sitting on your bedside table.
The campaign is a Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) programme funded by the Scottish Government and supported by libraries, culture and literacy partners across Scotland.
Part of the National Year of Reading 2026, Wee Read officially launched at the Edinburgh International Book Festival, with comedian, writer and TV presenter Mel Giedroyc, award-winning children’s author M G Leonard and Scots language poet Len Pennie among the first to make their Wee Read pledge alongside children, families and a curious audience of all ages.
TV and radio presenter Bryan Burnett, award-winning author, playwright, academic and journalist Ali Smith, novelist Hannah Lillith Assadi and journalist and author Alison van Diggelen also showed their support for the campaign, making their pledge to have a Wee Read on 7 October.
The launch formed part of the Festival’s vibrant programme of activities celebrating the power of words, stories and ideas, providing a fitting setting to invite people across Scotland to join in a shared celebration of reading.
The message behind Wee Read is simple: reading doesn’t have to look a certain way to count. From poetry and comics to newspapers, cookbooks, blogs and travel guides, Scotland is being encouraged to discover – or rediscover – the joy of reading whatever they enjoy, for however long they can.
Ahead of the national reading moment, people across Scotland are now being encouraged to visit www.WeeRead.scot and make their own pledge to read on 7 October.
The campaign also shines a spotlight on Scotland’s local libraries which offer a gateway to discovering something new, with free access to a wide variety of reading materials, resources and activities.
Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: “Reading has the power to entertain us, inspire us, help us escape and connect us with other people. But at its heart, Wee Read is about something wonderfully simple: making time to read something you enjoy.
“There is no right way to take part. You can read a novel, a comic, a magazine, a newspaper or a recipe; you can read for five minutes or fifty. Every read counts.
“We hope Wee Read encourages people across Scotland to find something that sparks their interest or rediscover the pleasure of an old favourite. With our brilliant local libraries on hand to help everyone find their next read, there’s never been a better time to get involved – and perhaps even kickstart a new reading habit.”
From families reading together and schools sharing stories, to workplaces taking a reading break and communities coming together around a favourite book, Wee Read aims to create a moment of shared enjoyment across the country with a target of 50,000 pledges.
People are encouraged to make their pledge, visit their local library to find their next read and share their recommendations using #WeeRead26.
Make your Wee Read pledge today at www.WeeRead.scot and join Scotland in celebrating the joy of reading on Wednesday 7 October 2026.
Join us for under 5s story time this Friday at 11:00 am, to listen to lots of stories about ice-cream!
We’ll read some stories, do a simple craft and colouring. 
Come along to have some fun!
See you then!!
FUNDING FOR CORSTORPHINE PRIMARY SCHOOL PROJECT
16 school libraries across Scotland are set to receive a funding boost through the 2026/27 School Library Improvement Fund (SLIF) to help pupils develop the literacy, wellbeing and digital skills needed to thrive in modern life.
Administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) on behalf of the Scottish Government, the fund supports creative initiatives that align with the objectives of Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools – Scotland’s national strategy for school library development.
This year’s SLIF prioritised applications which focused on:
Funding has been awarded to 16 innovative projects spanning 13 local authorities with the successful initiatives aiming to break down barriers to learning, foster a love of reading among children and young people, promote independent thinking and support family learning opportunities.
Many of this year’s successful projects put inclusion front and centre, such as East Ayrshire’s Reading Journeys for All which will strengthen the support that those with Additional Support Needs and who have English as an additional language have access to in their school library with aids, equipment and accessible literature.
Meanwhile, St Winning’s Primary School in North Ayrshire will develop a whole-school reading culture, promoting reading for pleasure and raising engagement with books and storytelling with a particular focus on those from communities where socioeconomic barriers can significantly impact access to reading opportunities.
Education and Culture Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “School libraries are so much more than a collection of books – they are spaces where young people discover a lifelong love of reading, build confidence and unlock new possibilities.
“I am pleased that this year’s Scottish Government-funded School Library Improvement Fund is supporting 16 innovative projects across Scotland, breaking down barriers and ensuring every child, regardless of background or needs, can access the transformative power of reading.
“I thank SLIC, schools and local authorities for their creativity and commitment. Building on over £2 million invested since the scheme began, I look forward to seeing the lasting difference these projects make to pupils, families and communities.”
Below are the successful 2026/27 SLIF projects:
Alison Nolan, chief executive of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), said: “School libraries play an important role in pupils’ lives, providing a space where they can thrive, broaden their horizons and fulfil their potential.
“The School Library Improvement Fund helps bring this vision to life by encouraging fresh ideas and forward-thinking approaches to what a library can do for young people.
“We were delighted by the remarkably high standard of the applications submitted which reflects the passion, creativity and ambition of school library staff across the country. We look forward to seeing these 16 projects take shape, helping libraries continue to evolve, inspire pupils and make a lasting difference to schools, families and local communities.”
The 2026-27 SLIF brings the total investment from the Scottish Government to over £2 million since the scheme’s inception. Open to all state-run nurseries, primary and secondary schools, the fund allows schools to apply individually or collaboratively, ensuring wide and equal access to this transformative support.
For more information about SLIF and to learn about some of the previous projects, visit: https://scottishlibraries.org/
Next Monday, 24th August we will be starting Mindful Colouring In at Blackhall Library. These are casual sessions for anyone to join, no need to book, just come along.
For more information contact Blackhall.library@edinburgh.gov.uk
John Grisham, Diana Gabaldon, Matt Haig, Maggie O’Farrell, Douglas Stuart, Lyse Doucet and David Olusoga among major names reaching audiences worldwide, as free library screenings bring Book Festival conversations to communities across Scotland.
The Edinburgh International Book Festival is making its 2026 programme more accessible than ever before, with nearly 90 events set to be livestreamed direct from Edinburgh, allowing audiences around the world to experience one of the world’s leading literary festivals wherever they are.
From bestselling novelists to leading thinkers, campaigners, historians, politicians, podcasters and children’s authors, the extensive livestreaming programme opens up the Book Festival to readers, writers and curious minds unable to attend in person – whether due to geography, cost, caring responsibilities, disability or health considerations.
Most streamed events will also remain available to watch on demand after broadcast, creating greater flexibility for audiences across different time zones and making it easier for viewers to enjoy events at a time that suits them.
The expanded programme builds on consistent and increasingly global demand for online access to the Book Festival. In 2025, online audiences joined events from 63 countries worldwide (including Vatican City), generating more than 20,000 online event views, demonstrating the global appetite for Edinburgh’s literary conversations, and the chance to hear from some of the world’s biggest literary stars.
Among the major names appearing as part of the livestreamed programme are legal thriller phenomenon John Grisham, Booker Prize winner Douglas Stuart (longlisted once again for the prize in 2026 for John of John, the topic of his Book Festival event), Outlander creator Diana Gabaldon, alongside global literary stars Ann Patchett, Maggie O’Farrell, Elif Shafak, Colson Whitehead, Colm Tóibín, Matt Haig, Kae Tempest and many more.
The programme also features BBC Chief International Correspondent Lyse Doucet on global affairs, acclaimed political economist Ann Pettifor on the economic forces shaping our future, and bestselling psychotherapist Philippa Perry on relationships, wellbeing and modern life. Audiences can also enjoy conversations with influential public figures and leading commentators including Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia, tech critic Cory Doctorow, New York Times diplomatic correspondent Edward Wong and Lewis Goodall of The News Agents, historian and broadcaster David Olusoga, philosopher A C Grayling, and historian Tom Holland.
Families and young readers can also enjoy a rich programme online, with events featuring beloved creators including Julia Donaldson, Jacqueline Wilson, Katherine Rundell, Liz Pichon, Harriet Muncaster, Catherine Rayner and Paul Linnet.
Alongside online access for audiences at home and overseas, 22 libraries across Scotland will host free screenings of selected events, helping bring Book Festival conversations to communities far beyond Edinburgh. Library streaming is emerging as one of the Book Festival’s strongest tools for democratising access, opening up opportunities for audiences across Scotland to take part collectively, locally and free of charge. The screenings build on the Book Festival’s wider work with libraries through initiatives including Paper Trails, and follow strong audience interest in shared viewing experiences, with more than 700 people attending library watch parties during previous Book Festival programmes.
The initiative reflects the Book Festival’s ongoing commitment to ensuring as many people as possible can take part in the conversations, ideas and stories that define each year’s programme.
Jenny Niven, Director of Edinburgh International Book Festival, said: “One of the wonderful things about the Book Festival is that our audiences have always extended far beyond Edinburgh. Every year we hear from readers around the UK and across the world who would love to be part of the Book Festival but aren’t able to travel here in person.
“Last year audiences joined us online from 63 countries around the world, demonstrating the global appetite for the conversations that take place here in Edinburgh. This year’s expanded livestreaming programme means even more people will be able to experience the Book Festival as it happens, wherever they are.”
“We’re also delighted that audiences will be able to access events through 22 partner libraries across Scotland. Combined with on-demand viewing for most events, we’re creating more ways than ever before for people to engage with the Book Festival, regardless of where they live or what their circumstances may be.”
Many of the livestreamed events connect with the Book Festival’s 2026 theme, Changing Your Mind, bringing together writers, thinkers and public figures from across continents and disciplines to explore how stories, ideas and conversation can challenge assumptions and broaden perspectives.
Online tickets are available now. The majority of livestreamed events will also be available on demand following the live broadcast, enabling audiences across the world to enjoy the Book Festival regardless of time zone.
A small number of events, including the John Grisham event, are livestream only. Additional events will be added to the on-demand offering throughout the autumn, extending access to Festival conversations beyond August.
To watch livestreamed events, visit: https://www.edbookfest.co.uk/events?eibf_main_production%5Btoggle%5D%5BonlineEvent%5D=true
Drumbrae Library and Leith Library in Edinburgh have launched a new initiative which will deliver free, impartial advocacy to members of the public through a new partnership between the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) and national charity Advice Direct Scotland.
The Edinburgh libraries will be included in the first phase of the programme, which will see trained advocates from Advocacy.scot – run by Advice Direct Scotland – offer in-person support in select public libraries throughout the country to help people access and deal with Social Security Scotland benefits, ensuring their voice is heard.
The new in‑library service will offer an accessible, face‑to‑face option for those who prefer a more personal interaction or who may face barriers to accessing online services.
The first phase of the programme will also launch in the following libraries:
By embedding these services within trusted, familiar community spaces, the partnership aims to make it easier for people to access the help they need, while also strengthening engagement with local library services.
Visitors will be encouraged to become library members, connecting more people with books, digital resources, learning opportunities and community activities.
Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: “Libraries are trusted public spaces that sit at the heart of communities, offering connection, learning and support to people of all ages. By partnering with Advice Direct Scotland, we can extend that support even further, ensuring that anyone who needs advice can access it easily, locally and without barriers.
“This collaboration strengthens the role of libraries as essential community anchors and helps build a more inclusive and resilient Scotland. Through their participation in the partnership, Edinburgh locals will have easier access to trusted advice, advocacy and guidance whenever they need it.”
Marjorie Gibson, operation director at Advice Direct Scotland, which runs Advocacy.scot, added: “Our mission is to ensure everyone in Scotland can access free, impartial advocacy when they need it most.
“Libraries are welcoming, familiar environments and bringing our advocates into these spaces will help us reach even more people in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.
“We’re proud to work with SLIC to expand our support and connect communities with the right guidance at the right time.”
To learn more, visit www.advocacy.scot or call 0808 196 8901.
Children and teens now have their own Libby site!
Find out how to borrow ebooks, audiobooks and magazines today.
Existing loans and holds
Please email informationdigital@edinburgh.gov.uk if you have any questions regarding this service.
Access 1000s of brilliant ebooks, audiobooks, magazines and comics for children and teens!
Borrow ebooks and audiobooks with Libby
• Borrow ten titles at a time for up to 21 days
• Borrow unlimited magazines
• Books return automatically so no fines
• Borrower card categories restrict loans to age-appropriate material
Use Libby Kids & Teens on:
• the Apple or Android Libby app on your smartphone or tablet
• the Kindle Fire OverDrive app
• a PC or Mac
• a Nook, Kobo or Sony eReader for ebooks (incompatible with Kindles except the Kindle Fire)
Get started:
• Join the library and sign in with your card number and PIN
• See our app or computer “How to use” guides and find out how to get started
• Problems? See our help pages
• Use our Digital Stock Suggestion form to suggest new ebooks and audiobooks
School holidays start on Friday and we have a full program of events for the summer break!
Here is a list of next week’s events.
Everything is free with no need to book
*children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult
Scotland’s recent election tells us something important about the national mood (writes ALISON NOLAN).
The return of an SNP-led administration under John Swinney, the rise of the Greens, the fragmentation of traditional party loyalties, the emergence of Reform UK at Holyrood, and low voter turnout together point to a political landscape that is more divided, volatile and uncertain than at any point since devolution began.
At the same time, COSLA’s recent white paper on strengthening local democracy argues that Scotland must rebuild democratic participation and place power closer to communities. These are not separate conversations. The central question facing Scotland’s new administration is not simply how to govern, but how to rebuild trust, participation and civic confidence in an age of fragmentation.
That is where libraries matter.
For too long, libraries have been framed narrowly: as cultural amenities, repositories of books, or discretionary local services under financial pressure. Those roles remain important, but they no longer capture the full significance of libraries in modern Scotland. Libraries are democratic infrastructure.
In communities across Scotland, libraries remain among the very few public spaces that are free, trusted, accessible and open to everyone. You do not need money to enter. You do not need an appointment, a referral or permission. At a time when many civic spaces have disappeared from public life, libraries remain embedded in communities across the country.
The election exposed a growing sense of democratic disconnection. Turnout fell in many parts of the country. Political loyalties are becoming more fluid and polarised, while public debate is increasingly shaped by social media algorithms, misinformation and distrust. At the same time, Scotland’s new government faces enormous pressures, from public service reform and child poverty to digital exclusion and growing demands for more local decision-making.
Libraries can help Scotland respond to all of these challenges. Democracy is strongest when decisions are made closest to communities but local democracy requires more than changes to governance structures. It also requires trusted local spaces where people can access information, build confidence, participate in discussions and connect with one another. Libraries already provide that infrastructure.
Every day, libraries help people access digital public services, apply for jobs, develop literacy skills, connect with their communities and navigate increasingly complex information environments. They host community groups, youth activities and public events, while increasingly helping people understand online information, artificial intelligence and the digital systems shaping modern life.
In practice, libraries already do the work of democratic participation. We simply do not always describe it that way.
Imagine if libraries were recognised formally as civic participation hubs in every community: places where citizens’ assemblies, local consultations and participatory budgeting discussions could happen; where young people could develop media literacy and critical digital skills; and where communities could engage with regeneration, climate transition and public service reform.
Much of this is already happening quietly across Scotland’s library network. The challenge now is whether national policy catches up with that reality.
If Scotland is serious about prevention, community empowerment and democratic renewal, libraries cannot continue to sit at the margins of policy discussions. They should be recognised as part of Scotland’s democratic and social infrastructure, alongside schools, health services and community organisations.
Democracy depends on more than elections and institutions. It depends on trust, participation, shared spaces and equal access to information. Libraries provide all four. In the Scotland emerging from this election, that may make them more important than ever.
Alison Nolan
Chief executive, Scottish Library & Information Council (SLIC)
