Library strategy crucial to Scotland’s Covid recovery
SCOTLAND is putting public libraries at the heart of economic and social recovery as the world emerges from the Covid pandemic. A new five-year strategy for public librar-
ies in Scotland has been launched and Pamela Tulloch, Chief Executive of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), says that libraries hold the key to recovery. The new strategy, Forward: Scot- land’s Public Library Strategy 2021-25, will set in place a framework to tackle social isolation, improve health and bridge the digital divide. Mirroring and supporting nine of the UN’s 17 Sustainable Develop- ment Goals, the strategy builds on the work previous five-year plan, Ambtion and Opportunity, and recognises the unique position libraries hold in society. Pamela Tulloch, chief executive at SLIC
said: “Communities have expressed a huge desire for library services post-pandemic, demonstrating the essential nature of what libraries do and proving there is a much deeper connection with libraries that goes far beyond book borrowing and reading.
“Libraries are crucial to Scotland’s Covid-19
recovery. They are uniquely placed and capable of promoting meaningful change in communities across the country. They already play a huge part in helping local and central government to meet health, social, education and economic priorities, making a compelling case for increased investment in
libraries.They have demonstrated tremendous resilience and adaptability to meet changing needs. Now, this strategy provides a blueprint for how services will continue to listen, to grow and to move forward with intent.” The strategy will look at how digital and physical services can be brought together to create seamless experience for users – whether they prefer in-person visits or online services. There will be a focus on building digital services and helping more people to be able to use those services – including digital literacy training and pro- viding access to the equipment needed to get online. Libraries will continue to deliver services
that support national and local health and wellbeing priorities.
Scotland’s Culture Minister Jenny Gilruth
said: “It is encouraging to see that the strategy articulates a national vision for libraries, exploring their multifaceted role in ensuring a stronger post-pandemic future, while placing communities at the centre of its focus.”
Pamela Tulloch.
SLIC’s Public Library Strategy launch with Pamela Tulloch and Jeanette Castle at the newly refurbished Port Glasgow library.
September 2021 INFORMATION PROFESSIONAL 9
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