Place

Often referred to as ‘the community living room’, good public libraries foster a sense of belonging. Public libraries across Scotland worked together to produce a people-centred design toolkit examining the physical and digital future of libraries. Public libraries will apply the outcomes of this ground-breaking work to redefine the physical and digital spaces of libraries and ensure communities are included in the process.

The COVID-19 pandemic heightened the need to be flexible in how library services are delivered. Many of the services introduced during this period offered convenience for customers, such as ‘click and collect’, virtual programmes and extended home delivery. Opportunities exist to explore innovative approaches to extend the reach of libraries to meet people where they are and raise the profile of library services to engage new audiences.

The digital offer in public libraries has grown over the last decade. As key institutions tackling digital exclusion and supporting access to digital innovation, a strong digital presence is key to a high-quality blended service. Library services will work collaboratively to ensure physical and digital services are an integrated and immersive experience designed with a broad range of service users.

Public libraries are vibrant local venues which provide varied opportunities to access culture. Partnerships such as those with the British Library’s Living Knowledge Network have shared collections and expertise to bring rich cultural experiences to Scotland’s public libraries. Forward encourages development beyond traditional, programmed culture to make spaces more diverse, representative, and inclusive. Public libraries will create the spark within communities and build capacity to take ideas forward which celebrate local identity and heritage.

The Scottish Coworking Network and Business and Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) Glasgow has enhanced the role Scottish libraries play in supporting economic growth. Libraries will further support economic recovery with access to vital skills and training, entrepreneurial support through access to technology, and collaborative workspaces. Libraries, as institutions at the forefront of the sharing economy, will support the creative industries by offering access to equipment which promotes sustainable practices.