Libraries must remain the ‘beating heart’ of Scottish communities
Public libraries are the ‘beating heart’ of our communities that must be saved from closure, say the Scottish Greens as many of these vital public spaces await a decision on their fate.
The Scottish Green MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Mark Ruskell, has been active in supporting campaigns to save 7 libraries at risk of closing in Perth and Kinross.
Today he will bring this issue into the chamber for a Member’s Debate in which he seeks to gain cross-party support to save the services.
Across Scotland, many councils have sealed the fates of these vital community spaces with many more at risk. There are 13 public libraries in Aberdeenshire and 7 in Moray that are also threatened with closure.
Speaking ahead of today’s member’s debate in Holyrood, Mr Ruskell said:
“Libraries are not only for borrowing books. They are the beating heart of our communities. They are vital, life-enhancing spaces where opportunities for learning, connection and support take place.
“I am glad that we will finally be discussing the future of our libraries at my debate today. I hope other parties will join me in supporting them and all of the incredible work that they do.
“We must come together to give our full support to these crucial public spaces and ensure they remain supported and open for everyone to enjoy for years to come.”
Text of Mark Ruskell’s motion
That the Parliament notes what it sees as the vital role that local libraries play in their communities, acting as central hubs for borrowing, learning, community engagement and sourcing advice and support; believes that the closure of libraries leaves communities without these vital services, and that this is particularly damaging for rural areas where libraries can be heavily relied on; considers that library closures have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable populations, including children, older residents and people with limited access to digital resources; notes the reported concerns raised by communities around the proposed closure of libraries across Scotland, including the threatened closure of those in the Perth and Kinross Council area; understands that local authorities have a legal obligation to provide public library services; believes that mobile libraries are often not suitable alternatives; considers that library services require adequate public funding to remain viable and have a critical role to play in achieving the Scottish Government’s priorities, including eradicating child poverty; believes that a closed library is unlikely to reopen, permanently limiting opportunities for the communities they once served, and notes the calls on the Scottish Government to help protect the future of Scotland’s libraries.