The Scottish Coworking Network (SCN) is the first national network of its kind. It aims to create a network of business hubs in underused spaces in Scotland’s public libraries - allowing entrepreneurs and small businesses to work, meet and collaborate in a shared space.
Members of the SCN can access desk space, online resources, events and professional development workshops. They can also use any of the hubs within the network. The Scottish Coworking Network is funded by the Scottish Government and delivered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC). Libraries involved with the Scottish Coworking Network receive an annual grant from SLIC which is based on the number of hub users.
The aims of the Network are:
• Creating accessible spaces in communities where entrepreneurs and businesses are supported to work, meet and collaborate
• Offering a programme of events and activities which support business development and encourage networking
• Developing a framework that can be used by other library services to expand the network in the future
By offering support with a focus on those who are new to business or face barriers to enterprise, the Scottish Coworking Network demonstrates the changing role of public libraries.
Scotland’s public libraries offer the perfect environment for coworking hubs. They are located in the heart of communities and offer a wealth of information and resources. Importantly, they are also open and accessible to everyone.
Through the coworking project, underused spaces in libraries have been refurbished with investment from SLIC to provide modern, well-equipped working areas. As well as accessing the hubs, SCN members can use other services within the libraries they use (as long as they are library members) which includes online resources and access to printing facilities.
The Library Coworking Hubs project was made possible through funding from the Connectivity, Economy and Participation division of the Scottish Government. We are supported by:
- Scottish Enterprise
- Scottish Towns Partnership
- Creative Scotland
- Carnegie UK Trust
- Young Enterprise Scotland
- Business Gateway
- Federation of Small Businesses Scotland
If you wish to be involved in the project as a partner, or want to know more about the project, please don't hesitate to get in touch.