Scotland launches strategy for school libraries

The Scottish Government has launched a national strategy for school libraries, which includes 20 action points to support the improvement of literacy and numeracy, boost attainment across the curriculum, and enable opportunities for family learning.    

The strategy will ensure school library services are delivered to all pupils from Early Learning and Childcare to secondary school. They will foster strong links among schools, families and carers; and offer creative approaches to learning across the curriculum, including STEM related and digital activities.

The views of pupils from across all of Scotland were heard as Advisory Group members visited schools from Shetland to the Scottish Borders.

A specialist group will now be formed from key stakeholders to oversee the implementation of the strategy’s aims and report on progress.

Deputy First Minister, John Swinney, said: “School libraries have a vital part to play, throughout the learner journey from 3-18. They support literacy, numeracy, and health and wellbeing, improving attainment across the Curriculum.

“This strategy seeks to make libraries the vibrant hub and epicentre of our schools, promoting an appreciation of literature, an understanding of information literacy and a place of contact, friendship, dialogue and reassurance.

“I am pleased to endorse this strategy and look forward to working with stakeholders, headteachers and library staff to implement it over the next five years.”