Research says 'vital' public libraries are 'endangered'
Based on surveys of 2000 library users and 300 staff from across Scotland, and led by national charity Scottish Book Trust, the extensive independent research was undertaken in partnership with Scotland's major library organisations 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).
The authors have called for more support for the sector, arguing that legal definitions must be strengthened, funding should be increased, and published data should be made much more comprehensive.
The report – The value and impact of Scotland's public libraries – highlights a range of personal, social and economic benefits provided by libraries across the country: survey respondents overwhelming agree that libraries inspire a love of reading, support learning, and save people money.
Key findings from the report will be presented at the Scottish Government Cross Party Group on Culture and Communities event in Parliament on Wednesday 4 June, which will explore the role of libraries and other cultural institutions as community hubs.
One particular area of importance for libraries is digital inclusion. Recent research has found that around fifteen percent of the Scottish population faces some form of digital inequality, and that 19 council areas in Scotland 'have a high likelihood of digital exclusion.' However, almost all libraries offer access to Wi-Fi and computers, and 70 percent also provide access to ebooks.
The report also highlights the contribution of libraries to 'learning opportunities' in communities. It notes that around a quarter of adults in Scotland may face 'challenges and limited opportunities' due to poor literacy levels, and that these individuals tend to earn less than they otherwise would with even basic literacy skills. Nearly 70 percent of respondents said that access to learning is a 'very important' aspect of library provision, with examples including the use of library materials for online learning, and individuals teaching themselves new skills that helped to improve their lives.
Another area of focus for researchers was 'active citizenship', which refers to 'the library's role in supporting communities to be informed about their democratic rights and access, to be empowered to voice their concerns and decisions, and to engage with their local authority, all with the goal of shaping local and national services to their needs.' Survey data shows that libraries are seen as welcoming, inclusive spaces that are able to reach and support a diverse range of people and ensure equal access to information. Disabled, LGBT+ and autistic library users are all quoted supporting the idea of libraries as a 'safe space' for those who need it.
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The report concludes with a number of recommendations. The first two call on the Scottish Government to publish 'clear legal definitions' of what an 'adequate' library services looks like, and to then 'empower local authorities across Scotland with sufficient funding and resource' to meet those standards.
Local authorities are expected to train and support librarians 'to deliver a progressive and accessible library service' and to publish annual reports with clear data on the provision of that service and its use by local communities.
Éadaoin Lynch, Research and Evaluation Manager at Scottish Book Trust, said: 'Nowhere else in modern life, whether urban or rural, is there a public space where anyone can enter and remain without the expectation of payment or labour. Nowhere else is there a public space where people can access information, combat digital poverty, learn new skills, socialise with others, express themselves creatively, and seek to self-improve, entirely for free.
'These institutions are vital for every person in Scotland, and they are endangered.'
Alison Nolan, Chief Executive, SLIC commented: 'This research highlights the essential role of Scotland's public libraries in advancing equity, education, and community wellbeing.
'By elevating the voices of users and staff, it reveals how libraries anchor resilient communities and help individuals navigate critical challenges -from low literacy and misinformation to economic hardship and mental ill health. A timely and urgent reminder that sustained investment in libraries is not optional -it is fundamental to building a fairer, more resilient society."
Sean McNamara, CILIPS Director, commented: 'This report is an essential read for anyone concerned with the impact our public libraries are having and the impact wider challenges are having on them. It presents a detailed picture of the incredible difference our libraries and librarians make to millions of people's lives and in so many ways, all whilst facing a false economy of significant and ongoing budget cuts."
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: 'Library policy is devolved to local authorities, and ministers expect councils to ensure there is adequate provision of library services for their residents.
'We believe libraries are at the heart of Scotland's communities. That is why we provide annual funding to the Scottish Library and Information Council, including £450,000 towards the Public Library Improvement Fund which exemplify the transformative power of libraries, from introducing digital inclusiveness to teaching about economic wellbeing.'
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