This week we celebrate the thirteenth year of Book Week Scotland, a yearly celebration across the country of reading.
This celebration of books demonstrates the importance of books and access to libraries in Scotland. The Scottish Book Trust organises
hundreds of events in recognition of reading and books to reflect Scotland’s love of reading.
WhileScotland’s love for books is apparent, public libraries remain essential for education and improving
literacy, and they play a far more crucial role in the Lothians region, contributing to creativity, social
inclusion, and well-being.
Despite the national importance of reading, libraries are under threat. In Aberdeenshire, its council
has regrettably announced the closure of 13 facilities. This threat to libraries is not new, with public
libraries in Scotland reducing at a closure rate of one in five over the past 15 years. This closure in
Aberdeen is not without opposition, with residents petitioning to save their libraries. Edinburgh, as
UNESCO’s City of Literature, remains fortunate to not have closed any libraries, instead opening new
facilities, like Muirhouse Library, which opened this month at MacMillan Hub.
With Edinburgh as a City of Literature, we continuously celebrate reading and the love of books.
Books are the life and soul of the city, as demonstrated through the global influence of Scottish
authors like Ian Rankin and Conan Doyle. This global impact is furthered through international events
like Edinburgh’s International Book Festival, bringing together authors and community members to
celebrate human connection.
Edinburgh has been and remains a centre for literature, with new
libraries like Muirhouse remaining central to the community, bringing residents together with
authors, like writer Sara Sheridan, who is visiting Muirhouse in December.
Alongside promoting reading and creativity, libraries are the lifeblood of the Lothians region, with
residents brought together through free coffee mornings and youth programming. These community
events are far and wide, with quiz nights and gaming clubs held weekly at Muirhouse Library, free
NHS hearing aid battery replacement available at West Calder Library, and craft groups gathering at
Leith Library, with computer and printing services available throughout the region’s libraries.
Going forward, we need to ensure Scotland’s love of books and reading remains protected, with
libraries built and not closed. Books and libraries are not just for education and literacy, but for social
inclusion and well-being.
