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‘Urgent’ development needed to secure future of Scotland’s libraries, says SLIC
In its new vision statement, titled Securing the Future of Scotland’s Libraries, the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) has called for “urgent sustained development” to help safeguard Scotland’s libraries.
According to SLIC, 55 libraries have closed in Scotland since 2013, with seven closed in 2024/25 alone, despite Scottish libraries receiving 14.5 million visitors annually.
SLIC is the advisory body to the Scottish government on library and information related matters. It supports and promotes the social and economic development of the country’s communities and offers leadership support to libraries and information services.
Chief executive of SLIC Alison Nolan said: “Libraries are essential public infrastructure – every £1 invested delivers almost £7 in community benefit. They are engines of opportunity, equity and wellbeing. This vision is a call to action to ensure every person in Scotland, no matter where they live, has access to a thriving library service.”
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The vision calls for “sustainable national funding” to be factored into future growth and investment deals as well as a “national policy framework” to recognise libraries as essential public infrastructure to ensure funding and protection under Scottish law. It also outlines the need for “sustained investment in digital infrastructure”, and “commitment to long-term capital investment” to sustain the future of Scottish libraries.
In addition, SLIC calls for a “minimum universal standard” of library provisions in its vision statement to improve accessibility for library services. This means that “everyone – regardless of postcode – has access to a well-resourced local library”. It also asks for recognition of the cross-sector role of libraries and their place within wider government strategy.
It is asking policymakers, partners and the public to support its vision ahead of the 2026 Holyrood Election.
Noland added: “A Scotland that values learning, creativity and fairness must also value its libraries. Our vision is about ensuring that these vital spaces are not only protected, but empowered to flourish.”
