A community nature sanctuary is taking shape at Bishopbriggs Library in partnership with BetterBriggs Community Group thanks to the Europe Challenge.
The East Dunbartonshire library received funding in 2025 from the annual programme which brings together libraries and communities to address Europe’s key transitions – social, digital and green – by implementing creative solutions.
The library’s Inside Out project aims to transform the neglected space outside Bishopbriggs Library into a green and accessible sanctuary. Consultation events with the local community, including Youth Ambassadors, have already taken place generating valuable feedback and ideas.
Local group Bishopbriggs in Bloom have offered their time, plants and tools to work on the project while a series of nature talks and guided walks with a Conservation Volunteer is now planned for later in the year.
With preparations now all falling into place, the library is on course to creating a year-round, accessible garden that invites residents to pause, connect, and engage with the library in new ways.
Brenda Gardiner from Bishopbriggs Library said: “We are pleased to share progress on our project, which we are keeping community led by engaging with as many groups as possible to co-create an inclusive green space connecting Bishopbriggs Library with its surrounding neighbourhood.
“Our partnership work continues to strengthen, and we are delighted to be working with BetterBriggs. We have also actively canvassed for volunteers both in branch and through social media, with increasing interest as we move into the spring and summer months.”
When finished the multifunctional garden will be used for storytelling, nature watching, performances and quiet reflection. Filled with plants, herbs and native species to attract wildlife, the area will be open to all residents – encouraging new experiences and cultural connections.
Brenda said: “This project will further strengthen the library’s role at the heart of the community. For instance, we’re pleased to confirm that a local artist and crafter Jo Craig has been booked to deliver a series of three workshops with local children. These sessions will focus on creating individual pieces of wooden artwork themed in nature. Jo’s practice places a strong emphasis on sustainability, using recycled materials wherever possible, which aligns closely with the environmental values of the project.
“Our Library knitting and crochet group have also contributed to the project by creating a handmade flower garland, which will be displayed within the library to promote and celebrate the garden initiative. We will also be lending camping chairs and binoculars, encouraging the community to go out and explore nature or just read quietly in the library garden.”
There are now plans to organise an RSPB puppet show and introduce a Famer’s Market in the library forecourt – increasing footfall and providing opportunities for local producers and residents to connect within a welcoming accessible space.
The Europe Challenge
The Europe Challenge brings together teams from libraries and communities across Europe every year to address today’s most pressing social, digital and climate challenges. The teams develop, share and implement creative solutions with support from the European Cultural Foundation and its partners.
So far 156 libraries throughout Europe have participated in the Europe Challenge. The Scottish Library and Information Council is a funding partner of the programme which was first launched in 2020.
Find out more about the Europe Challenge and previous projects here
