Current status: Answered by Mairi McAllan on 21 September 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what progress it has made with its review of the definition of an “adequate provision” for libraries in Scotland.
Public libraries are at the heart of communities and make an important contribution to Scotland’s cultural life.
Whilst local authorities have a statutory duty to ensure that there is adequate provision of library services for their residents, in addition to core funding to local authorities, the Scottish Government also provide £1.035 million annually to the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC).
This funding includes £550,000 towards the Public Library Improvement Fund which supports the transformative power of libraries across Scotland to inspire and promote reading and literacy.
The SLIC “Public Libraries: Beyond Adequate” report, published earlier this year by a SLIC Working Group convened on behalf of the Scottish Government, makes ten recommendations across a number of partner organisations. All of the recommendations aim to improve service provision, leadership and strategy in public libraries across all local authorities.
The previous Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture welcomed the report. The recommendations are currently being considered as part of ongoing work. Further details will be set out in due course.