SLIC Project Excellence Award 2026

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The SLIC Project Excellence Award 2026 recognises the exceptional work of library teams across Scotland in delivering high-impact, innovative projects that support and enrich their communities. An excellent library project is clearly guided by SMART goals, providing a solid foundation for success. It features thorough planning, outlining key tasks, timelines, resources, and risk management strategies. Strong projects actively engage stakeholders, such as library staff, users, and community partners, ensuring the project is relevant and responsive to local needs. These elements along with others , create a project that is impactful, sustainable, and aligned with the values and needs of the library community. The Award is open to all SLIC member libraries, with the winners receiving a trophy and cash prize. All entries must highlight the work of library teams which demonstrate exceptional innovation and service design between June 2025 and June 2026. An independent panel of judges will choose the winning team which will be announced at the SLIC Showcase and AGM on Friday 6th November 2026
Lead Contact
Please confirm this entry relates to activity which took place between 1st June 2025 and 1st June 2026
Approval * Please confirm this submission has the approval of the Head of Service/Library Director
SLIC Showcase * We like to share best practice on the SLIC website. Please let us know if you are happy for this submission to be shared on our website. social media platforms and printed materials.
Can we contact you about additional opportunities to showcase and share your submission? For instance, future face-to-face or online events, creation of case studies etc.

SLIC Project Excellence Award 2026

Please respond to each section clearly and concisely. Use supporting materials where appropriate to strengthen your application. Word limits are stated for each question.
Describe your library project, its main aims and objectives, and what made it unique. Include the project’s duration, structure, and delivery team. Were there any key partnerships? (500 word limit)
Explain how the need for the project was identified. Describe the intended audience and why this group was chosen. Did you use data, consultations, or community engagement to shape the project? (250 word limit)
Explain the short and long-term impact on your target audience, the wider community, and your service. Include any social, educational, cultural, or economic outcomes. Provide quantitative or qualitative examples where possible (500 word limit).
Outline how you evaluated the project. What tools or metrics did you use (e.g. surveys, KPIs, feedback, attendance)? Did the project meet its objectives? (250 word limit)
Reflect on lessons learned, unexpected outcomes, and areas for improvement. How will the project be sustained, replicated, or scaled up? Could other services adopt this approach? (250 word limit)
Drag & Drop Files, Choose Files to Upload You can upload up to 10 files.
You are encouraged to submit evidence that brings your project to life, such as: - Promotional materials - Photographs and visuals * - Testimonials from users, partners or staff - Evaluation reports or press coverage - Social media examples Please clearly reference any materials in your application. Use file sharing services if necessary, sending to applications@scottishlibraries.org *Please provide one photograph that illustrated your project .
Checklist before submitting
Please make sure you have attached all supporting materials and filled in every section of the form. If you have any questions regarding your application, please contact us at info@scottishlibraries.org The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Tuesday September 1st 2026.

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