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.