Residents in Scone, a village in Perthshire, were alarmed to discover that their local library is also facing the threat of closure. The issue came to light during a meeting held on October 3, where library users gathered to launch a campaign to save the facility. The concern arose after it was revealed that Scone Library was not initially included in the list of Perth and Kinross libraries under review.
In February, Perth and Kinross councillors had allocated £191,000 to Culture Perth and Kinross to explore “local solutions for library services,” but there was no mention of Scone Library being under scrutiny. The news came as a shock to residents, who had previously been informed that only seven other libraries in the area were being reviewed for potential closure or relocation.
The meeting held on October 3 at the Robert Douglas Memorial Institute saw over 135 residents coming together to express their worries about losing their local library. Kevin Gates, a local resident who organised the meeting, highlighted the significance of the library in the community, stating that it plays a crucial role in village life by offering not just book lending services but also contributing to wellness, education, and health benefits.
The residents are adamant about the importance of the library and are determined to ensure that their voices are heard during the review process. An action group will be established to represent the community’s interests and protect the library from closure. Strathmore councillor Hugh Anderson, who attended the meeting, expressed his support for safeguarding the library in Scone and stressed the need to preserve library services in other areas like Alyth and Coupar Angus.
The Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals Scotland (CILIPS) has also raised concerns about the potential closure of libraries in Perth and Kinross, reminding councillors of their legal obligation to provide essential library services based on community needs. Culture Perth and Kinross is currently reviewing feedback from a recent consultation before further engaging with library members.
Residents are hopeful that their efforts to save Scone Library will be successful and that the library will continue to serve as a vital resource for the village. The strength of community support demonstrated at the meeting reflects the deep-rooted attachment residents have to their local library, underscoring its significance beyond just a place for borrowing books.