Scotland’s Libraries at Risk

Category: Campaigning for Libraries, News

CILIPS have written to the Scottish Government to ask for urgent financial support for our public and school libraries following a series of severe cuts proposed by local authorities.

These proposals include the closure of over 60% of branches in some areas. In addition to this, our school libraries have seen continued loss of staffing and resources as well as significant deprofessionalisation.

We believe this is unsustainable.

Our letter points out that our extensive evidence bank shows the many reasons to support libraries. They are popular and impactful and often the only remaining non-clinical, non-commercial space left where a community can have equitable access to books, IT and other resources as well as learn new skills and access vital support. They offer a long-term economic return as well as supporting environmental sustainability, tackling misinformation and preventing social isolation.

We have also highlighted that school librarians provide essential support to curriculum delivery and research indicates that children who are able to use a school library have higher attainment and confidence. Librarians are informed by a set of ethical principles and are experts in matters of information literacy, ethics, and censorship.

We believe that if Scotland is serious about eradicating child poverty, growing the economy, tackling the climate emergency, and ensuring high quality and sustainable public services then decimation of our profession cannot go on.

We are calling on the Scottish Government to:

• Provide the funding required so local authorities can avert this crisis in library services and avoid mass closures.
• Hold councils to account when they are not meeting their statutory obligations to provide library services and be clear on what is expected of them to do this.
• Build on the foundations of the recent national strategies for public and school libraries and ensure these vital sectors can have a long term vision.

If you are able to assist us then please consider the following actions:

• Campaign – Use our guide to campaigning and write to your Council and MSPs and make the case for libraries, we have a template letter you can use.
• Amplify  – Share the evidence and support your school and public libraries. Share stories of how the library supports you and your communities.
• Network – Look for local campaign groups to join or start your own. You can find advice via the network of campaign groups at ‘Friends of Scotland’s Libraries’ or let us know if you need some contact details.