Councils are spending less on culture and leisure services, reviewing the services they offer and increasing or introducing charges. Yet gaps in the data collected at a local and national level means we don’t have a full understanding of the impact of these decisions on health, wellbeing and prevention.
Scotland’s councils play a vital role in supporting communities by delivering a wide range of cultural and leisure services. These services aim to keep communities healthy and connected, improving residents’ quality of life. The level of services offered, and how they are provided, is a decision for individual councils.
Whilst councils are spending more on services overall, spending on culture and leisure services reduced by three per cent in real terms in the five years from 2018/19. At the same time income from charges increased by 27 per cent, whilst overall satisfaction and attendance rates for some services remain below pre-pandemic levels.
Removing these important services risks increasing inequalities and exclusion, with rural and more deprived communities having a greater reliance on these facilities. Failure to adequately consult with communities and assess the equalities impacts of service changes has led to some councils reversing decisions and communities taking legal action.
Jo Armstrong, Chair of the Accounts Commission, said: “Culture and leisure services are vital to our health and wellbeing, supporting national and local priorities and supporting people to be better connected. Gaps in national data need to be addressed to better understand how these reductions in spending on culture and leisure are impacting communities.
“As councils manage continued pressures due to increasing demands and costs, culture and leisure services have experienced a disproportionate share of council savings measures.
“Communities must be fully consulted on decisions to close, centralise facilities or changes to charging. Failing to do this risks deepening inequalities and legal action by communities.”
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.
copyright photo by Paul Chappells 07774730898
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.”
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.
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.
photo by Paul Chappells
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.
Featuring images from Historic Environment Scotland’s archives, the exhibition charts their innovation and growth from the 17th century through their continued evolution in response to the changing needs of society to become the varied public services they are today.
The exhibition marks the 100th anniversary of the 1925 ‘National Library of Scotland Act’, which saw the establishment of the National Library of Scotland, one of the largest libraries in the United Kingdom.
Across the road, The National Library of Scotland has also opened an exhibition to commemorate their centenary. ‘Dear Library’ is described as a love letter to libraries, aiming to give visitors a whole new perspective on how libraries can help you, and how you can help them.
Browse bookshelves in an open reading room filled with recommendations from the public and well-known Scottish figures. See libraries in popular culture, protest banners and badges, vintage film footage, and more.
Claire Whitbread, Exhibitions Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said: “Through this exhibition, we’re shining a light on the vital part libraries play in Scotland’s social history, illuminating the continuing importance of these places in our lives today.
“It’s wonderful to be opening this exhibition at Edinburgh Central Library, a very fitting venue and the first public library building in the city, opening in 1890.
“It’s also just across the road from the National Library of Scotland, so I hope visitors enjoy exploring both of our exhibitions and discovering more about the fascinating world of libraries.”
Martha Burns Findlay, Head of Public Programmes at the National Library of Scotland, said: “We’re delighted that Historic Environment Scotland’s new display at Edinburgh’s Central Library will coincide with our own ‘Dear Library’ exhibition across the road at the National Library of Scotland.
“In our 100th year we’re championing the vital role that libraries play in Scotland, so the twinned exhibitions provide a great opportunity for people to rekindle their love of libraries.”
Partnership with libraries through access to books and cultural experiences
Innovative programme in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council will enhance the role of five local libraries as thriving cultural hubs as literacy crisis deepens across the UK
Paper Trails is a five-year library partnership project and was launched at the official opening of Ratho Library by Her Majesty The Queen today, Tuesday 1 July 2025
Part of the Book Festival’s year-round Communities Programme, Paper Trails is a partnership with City of Edinburgh Council and five libraries: Muirhouse Library, Ratho Hub Library, Liberton High School Library, Streetreads, and the Mobile Library
Paper Trails will tackle social isolation, especially among older adults, by encouraging library use and developing creative skills; highlight libraries as spaces for creativity and community gathering; build partnerships that create cultural ecosystems in under-served areas of the city; support young people’s creative development and career pathways
The Edinburgh International Book Festival has launched its innovative Paper Trails libraries project, part of its year-round Communities Programme, at the official reopening of Ratho Hub Library by Her Majesty the Queen.
As recent statistics reveal that more than 1 in 4 older adults experience loneliness each week, only 1 in 5 young people read daily, and literacy rates across all ages countrywide have been declining since 2005, this five-year initiative is designed to tackle social isolation and literary inequality through creative community programming.
The Paper Trails project represents one of the most ambitious community literature initiatives in Scotland, working in partnership with five libraries: Muirhouse Library (housed in the new Macmillan Hub building), Ratho Hub Library, Liberton High School Library (opening in 2026), Streetreads (a charity-run library for people experiencing homelessness), and the Mobile Library service.
Using University of Edinburgh Cultural Mapping research, these libraries were chosen as locations where cultural provision could be enhanced and where little or no other festival activity currently takes place.
The programme will co-create literary experiences with local communities, addressing specific neighbourhood needs while building sustainable capacity that extends beyond the Book Festival’s direct involvement.
Noelle Cobden, Director of Communities and Equality at Edinburgh International Book Festival, said:“Paper Trails represents our commitment to ensuring that literature and creative expression remain accessible to all communities.
“This isn’t just about bringing authors to libraries – it’s about listening to local people to tell their own stories and strengthening the vital role libraries play in community life.”
The initiative has received significant backing from celebrated crime writer Sir Ian Rankin and his wife Miranda Harvey.
Paper Trails is also funded by the Ettrick Charitable Trust, Cruden Foundation, and National Lottery Awards for All.
Jenny Niven, Director of Edinburgh International Book Festival, said:“We couldn’t be more excited to announce this hugely ambitious project that cements existing, and generates new, creative relationships across the sector, and that has the potential to impact the lives of thousands of people from in and around the city.
“We’re delighted to begin the first phase of this a far reaching partnership and look forward to speaking with other organisations who are interested in supporting the work further and as we roll it out across our libraries.”
Councillor Margaret Graham, Culture and Communities Convener, the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “I’m delighted to have been part of the official opening of Ratho Library by Her Majesty the Queen. The development of this library hub had the community at its heart and I’m so pleased that residents can now enjoy all that’s on offer there.
“Paper Trails is a wonderful initiative which harnesses the positive impact our libraries can have.”
Her Majesty The Queen’s official opening of the newly rebuilt Ratho Library today highlights the vital importance of library services to local communities. The Ratho community had been without a permanent library since the COVID-19 pandemic, relying instead on weekly mobile library visits.
Paper Trails will work with diverse groups including young people, older adults, and those facing homelessness, using storytelling and creative writing to build connections and support personal growth.
The programme specifically aims to tackle social isolation by encouraging library use, developing creative skills, and highlighting libraries as essential spaces for creativity and community gathering.
Paper Trails offers a model of how cultural organisations can work in partnership with local authorities to revitalise these essential community resources.
Each participating library will develop programming tailored to their community’s specific needs, from supporting young writers’ career development to creating intergenerational storytelling circles and providing creative outlets for marginalised communities. For example, the project’s Skills Pathways will give young people in Liberton the opportunity to learn about how festivals are produced, widening their understanding and engagement with the literary sector beyond simply access to books.
The Edinburgh International Book Festival’s Communities Programme, of which Paper Trails forms a central part, works year-round with partners including schools, libraries, prisons, and hospitals to foster lifelong love of reading and develop engaged audiences of all backgrounds and ages.
As the charity prepares for its August festival (9-24 August 2025), Paper Trails demonstrates the organisation’s commitment to ensuring the transformative power of literature reaches every corner of Edinburgh’s diverse communities.
Ratho primary and nursery pupils were treated to a special reading from Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated Axel Scheffler at Ratho Library on Wednesday (11 June).
The children were also each gifted a copy of the classic story, which has inspired a special artwork inside the new Ratho Library. This was unveiled when the library opened its doors in March.
A quote from the book was chosen by the local community in 2023, when a public vote was held to select words for the artwork from a range of beloved children’s books. The winning quote is now displayed above the children’s library section, alongside illustrations of Rowena frog and other characters from the book.
Each child who attends the early years centre adjacent to the new library was given a copy of Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book by publishers Macmillan Children’s Books to celebrate its opening.
Culture and Communities Convener Councillor Margaret Graham said: “It’s wonderful to see some of our youngest library-goers enjoying the new space at Ratho, and even better, their very own copies of Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book!
“I recently visited the library and was really impressed with all that’s on offer, including this striking artwork, which clearly has the community at its heart. Their involvement, along with our dedicated team at the library and Macmillan Children’s Books, has helped to create a design which will inspire young minds for years to come.
“Thanks to Julia Donaldson, Axel Scheffler and Macmillan for their support throughout this process, including the gift of these books to our local nursery pupils, which I know will be well-loved.”
Julia Donaldson said:“I have long campaigned on the valuable role that public libraries play in communities and in developing a love of books, and I am very pleased that there is now this new library in Ratho.
“I want to thank everyone who voted to see ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book’ featured on the walls in the children’s area and I hope this joyful space introduces a new generation of readers to stories they will treasure for life.”
Axel Scheffler said:“It is an honour to know that ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book’ was chosen by the local community in Ratho to feature in their new library.
“I would like to thank them all and also the librarian team who have worked so hard to make this happen. I am so pleased that Rowena frog and Charlie will welcome young readers into the children’s area and I hope they will inspire families to discover great new books together.”
On Wednesday, pupil librarians from Ratho Primary School helped publishers Macmillan Children’s Books to gift a copy of the book to a small group of nursery children to then take back to share with the other children at the nursery.
Ratho Library offers a broad range of services to customers, including access to a wide variety of digital and printed books, free public access to computers, free public Wi-Fi, collection of NHS hearing Aid batteries, support with National Entitlement Cards alongside an exciting programme of events and activities for children and adults.
The library will host Tech Donation Boxes later in the year where everyday tech devices can be upcycled.
Scottish Book Trust has undertaken independent research into the value and impact of public and school libraries in Scotland in partnership with the National Library of Scotland (NLS), the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), and the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals in Scotland (CILIPS).
Scottish Book Trust has undertaken an independent research project, led by our Research and Evaluation Manager Éadaoín Lynch, to report on the value and impact of our public and school libraries – and showcase how they are intrinsic to removing inequity across many intersections of Scottish life.
We work across every local authority, striving to offer an opportunity for all people to tell their stories; as such, we are uniquely positioned to bear witness.
Methods include:
Surveys of public and school librarians
Interviews with public and school librarians
Qualitative feedback from library users
Quantitative data gathering on library opening hours and capacity
The full report, published in June 2025, reveals the vital and diverse role libraries play, while also unveiling the extent of closures and reduced services across Scotland over the past 16 years.
The research explores the profound impact that Scotland’s libraries have on their communities and the ways they bridge gaps for those facing the cost-of-living crisis and increasing poverty, digital inequality and the ongoing consequences of the Covid pandemic.
Our survey of 2,000 library users across the nation found that:
90% reported their library inspires their love of reading ‘a lot’
Over 80% reported their library saves them money ‘a lot’
Six libraries and information centres across Scotland have been awarded a share of £34,000 to support a series of pioneering projects during 2025.
The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) has again opened its annual Innovation and Development Fund to support projects that encourage creativity,following the success of previous funding stream initiatives.
Now in its 13th year, the fund has supported the development of new resources, inspired original research and enhanced staff training – and this year turns its focus to innovative projects including an AI toolkit for staff training, a chill out space for students and a podcast studio for a rural part of Scotland.
Cardonald Campus Library’s chill out space
Glasgow Clyde College will create a quiet, restful place for students to take breaks in the Cardonald Campus Library, complete with a mindful selection of books and air purifying plants for a digital detox away from screens and teaching spaces. The project aims to increase literacy skills, while promoting student wellbeing by encouraging reading for pleasure by fostering a nurturing environment.
GAITLib: Generative AI toolkit for librarians by the University of Strathclyde
The University of Strathclyde’s Department of Computer and Information Sciences will develop an AI toolkit and set of guidelines for Scottish libraries that can be used to educate and empower library staff to make optimum use of the emerging generative AI tools for undertaking information-related tasks or activities.
Mastering META skills through creative practice at Forth Valley College
Forth Valley College aims to enhance the core and essential skills of its students by developing and delivering a series of innovative and creative workshops to aid the growth of META skills (eg leadership, creativity and critical thinking) in a fun and engaging way.
The project will also boost social interaction, promote collaborative working and encourage new learning centre users.
National Library of Scotland school library and engagement plan
The National Library of Scotland will increase engagement with students in Scotland to ensure every child has access to the national collections held by the National Library of Scotland.
This project will focus on developing the relationship with Scotland’s school libraries, piloting new ways of providing support, training and resources and giving students access to the collections and research resources through school libraries.
Opening the door: celebrating literacy, celebrating literature at Glasgow Women’s Library
This project extends the work of Glasgow Women’s Library’s Adult Literacy and Numeracy (ALN) project which supports women to understand, read and write words and numbers.
It aims to increase the knowledge of potential learners, partner organisations and the general public, as well as making the wider ALN project more accessible to women who struggle with their literacy, or whose first language isn’t English.
UHI Moray podcast studio: building digital skills and strengthening community ties
UHI Moray will set up a fully equipped podcast recording studio at the library, giving students, staff and the local community the chance to develop digital skills, express themselves creatively and engage with modern media.
Administered and financed by SLIC, the Innovation and Development Fund is aimed at those who do not benefit from other annual funding programmes – including the Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) and the School Library Improvement Fund (SLIF) – such as further education, higher education and specialist libraries and information centres.
Ground Floor, Study Pods. Edinburgh University Library.
Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: “Scotland’s libraries and information centres continue to evolve, creating vibrant, future-facing spaces that meet the needs of the communities they serve – and the Innovation and Development Fund is a vital catalyst for that continued progression.
By backing bold, creative projects, we’re not just supporting innovation but helping services redefine their offering in a rapidly changing world. These six initiatives demonstrate the power of libraries to lead on digital skills, wellbeing and inclusive learning in both urban and rural communities.”
Since 2013, the SLIC Innovation and Development Fund has awarded over £400,000 to over 40 projects, with previous projects including the NHS Ayrshire and Arran Health Board Library’s TED Talk style ‘health conversations’ webinar series, the climate change and sustainable development measurement framework for libraries by the University of Strathclyde and the National Library of Scotland’s ‘Andrew Watson’s Legacies’ series, representing stories from Black and ethnic minority sportspeople.
The new Ratho Library has officially opened its doors to the public as it moves into its permanent location after closing its doors in 2020 and serving as a mobile service since 2021.
The opening celebration includes the unveiling of a special artwork inside the library, showcasing a quote chosen by the local community.
In the summer of 2023, the library hosted a community vote to select a quote from a selection of beloved children’s books. The winning quote, now proudly displayed above the children’s library section, is from Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler. The quote celebrates the joy of reading and literature, making it a perfect fit for the new library’s vibrant atmosphere.
In addition to the winning quote, illustrations of Rowena frog and other characters from the book accompany the quote, further enhancing the library’s welcoming environment for young readers.
Each child who attends the early years centre adjacent to the new library will receive a copy of Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler to mark the official opening of the new library.
Winning quote
‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book’ (2005) written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Macmillan Children’s Books (Pan Macmillan).
‘About Rowena Reddalot, a very well-read frog, Who jumped upon a lily pad and jumped upon a log, Then jumped into the library which stood beside the brook, And went, “Reddit! Reddit! Reddit!” as she jumped upon a book…’
Julia Donaldson said: “I have long campaigned on the valuable role that public libraries play in communities and in developing a love of books.
“I am very pleased that this library is opening in Ratho; it isn’t news that you hear every day!
“I want to thank everyone who voted to see ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book‘ featured on the walls in the children’s area and I hope this joyful space introduces a new generation of readers to stories they will treasure for life.”
Axel Scheffler said:“It is an honour to know that ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book‘ was chosen by the local community in Ratho to feature in their new library.
“I would like to thank them all and also the librarian team who have worked so hard to make this happen. I am so pleased that Rowena frog and Charlie will welcome young readers into the children’s area and I hope they will inspire families to discover great new books together.”
Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said:“We are thrilled to open the doors of our new Ratho Library and celebrate the community’s involvement in selecting the quote that now graces our children’s library.
“This collaboration highlights our shared love of reading and the importance of literature in inspiring young minds.
“The winning quote from ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book‘ perfectly reflects the joy of storytelling, and we are excited to create a space where every visitor, especially our young readers, can feel the magic of books.
“Our dedicated team at Ratho has worked closely with Macmillan Children’s Books to develop the graphic design for our new library and it looks fantastic.
“I would like to extend our sincere thanks to Julia Donaldson, Axel Scheffler and Macmillan Children’s Books for their permission to use ‘Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book’ and their ongoing support in the process. I hope visitors enjoy the design for years to come.”
Ratho Library offers a broad range of services to customers, including access to a wide variety of digital and printed books, free public access to computers, free public Wi-Fi, collection of NHS hearing Aid batteries, support with National Entitlement Cards alongside an exciting programme of events and activities for children and adults.
The library will also host Tech Donation Boxes later in the year where everyday tech devices can be upcycled.
An official opening event for the library will be held at a later date.
