Public Libraries across Scotland can now apply for a share of £550,000 to support creative, sustainable and innovative projects that strengthen their role as trusted community hubs. The fund also supports delivery of “Fast Forward” The public Library strategy 2026, development of the Public Library Data Framework and national programmes such as Every Child A Library Memeber.
The 2026/27 Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF), which is administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) on behalf of the Scottish Government, supports Scotland’s library sector to achieve the sustainable vision set out in Fast Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy Refresh 2026.
The forward-looking strategy has been designed to address today’s most pressing social challenges, from the national reading crisis to digital exclusion and misinformation, aligning national ambition with local action to ensure libraries continue to meet the needs of the communities they serve.
PLIF applications are welcomed for a range of activities in line with these aims, covering service development and innovation, research, evaluation and impact analysis, training, facilitation and partnership working, and the development of new services, resources and good practice.
This year’s annual fund will prioritise projects that support:
- Reader development and promotion of reading for pleasure
- Diversification of collections (voices and items)
- Reducing inequalities (cost of living/digital divide)
- Sustainable living/reducing waste
In alignment with the Scottish Government’s new Scots Refugee Integration Strategy and national community cohesion goals, PLIF will also award projects that focus on key priorities including:
- Expanding ESOL-linked library programmes (English for Speakers of Other Languages)
- Support reading and digital inclusion for refugees and asylum seekers
- Developing culturally responsive collections and community partnership
- Providing safe, trusted integration spaces within libraries
Libraries at the heart of communities
Scotland’s Cabinet Secretary for Education, Culture and Gaelic Màiri McAllan said: “Scotland’s public libraries are at the heart of our communities – trusted spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to read, learn, connect and thrive.
“This £550,000 fund will help libraries build on that vital role, supporting innovative projects that promote reading for pleasure, tackle digital exclusion, reduce inequalities and welcome those who are new to Scotland, including refugees and asylum seekers.
“I am pleased to open applications for the 2026/27 Public Library Improvement Fund and look forward to seeing ambitious proposals from library services across Scotland. Our libraries have always adapted to meet the needs of the communities they serve, and this investment will help ensure they continue to do so for generations to come.”
Every public library can apply, with SLIC accepting up to two applications per library service to ensure each authority has an equal opportunity.
12 public libraries benefited from the 2025/26 PLIF with funding supporting a wide range of pioneering projects designed to address local priorities and strengthen community impact. Initiatives ranged from a gaming and e-sports hub in Elgin, to a series of AI workshops tackling topics from misinformation to digital wellbeing and online safety in Aberdeenshire, South Lanarkshire and North Ayrshire.
Other funded work spanned climate action, inclusion and skills development to increase engagement with library services and supporting lifelong learning.
Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, added: “Public libraries are uniquely placed to help address some of Scotland’s most pressing challenges, from supporting reading for pleasure and literacy development to tackling digital exclusion, reducing inequalities and helping communities live more sustainably.
“This year’s Public Library Improvement Fund is focused on projects that will make a tangible difference in these priority areas, while also ensuring libraries continue to reflect and serve the diverse communities around them through inclusive collections, partnerships and services.
“We are particularly keen to support innovative approaches that encourage a lifelong love of reading, widen access to digital opportunities, promote sustainable living and create welcoming spaces for everyone, including refugees and people seeking asylum. We look forward to seeing ambitious proposals from library services across Scotland that demonstrate the lasting impact libraries can have on individuals and communities.”
The PLIF 2026/27 is now open to applications and will close at 12pm on Wednesday 22 July 2026.
