THE Scottish Book Trust has released a report on the impact of libraries in Scotland.
The trust looked into the vital and diverse role of libraries across the country, whilst also unveiling the extent of closures in some areas.
Edinburgh is listed as one of the least served populations for libraries, with around one library for every 20,000 people.
In 2023, Edinburgh’s Blackhall Library was forced to close following the discovery of unstable concrete in its roof.
The Scottish Book Trust is a national charity which works to make reading more accessible to the wider population.
It recently undertook an independent research project, delving into the impact of public and school libraries in Scotland.
It conducted surveys and interviews with librarians and library users, as well as collecting data on opening hours and capacity.
After speaking to thousands of Scots, 81% of people in Edinburgh reported that their library inspires their family’s love of reading, and 89% said that the libraries in the city provided them with a safe space.
Despite this, Edinburgh is one of the least served populations for libraries, with just 1.18 libraries for every 20,000 people.
This is compared to areas such as Stirling and the Highlands where there are almost 3.5 libraries per 20,000 people.
The Scottish Book Trust found that between 2015 and 2021 Scotland’s librarian numbers were cut by at least 32%, but Edinburgh was one of three local authorities who did not provide any information for this request.
One topic that was focused on was digital inclusion, which outlines how easy it is for individuals to get online.
An overwhelming majority of librarians considered their local community to be facing digital poverty, with 66% saying that people struggled with accessing the internet.
Edinburgh, however, was found to be one of just three local authorities with a low likelihood of digital exclusion, with its libraries offering access to Wi-Fi, computers, e-books, printers, and scanners.
Blackhall Library on Hillhouse Road was one of eight libraries which closed in Scotland between 2023 and 2024, following the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) in its foundations.
The material is prone to crumbling and collapse, so a mobile library has now been set up in the car park of Davidson Mains Church.
Long-term options for a replacement are currently being considered.
