Hundreds of residents have joined forces in a bid to save Auchterarder Library from closure as they urge Perth and Kinross Council to reconsider proposed shut-downs. The Save our Rural Libraries campaign was launched earlier this month by concerned residents from Auchterarder, Birnam, Comrie, and Scone. An online petition on change.org, aimed at preserving Auchterarder’s “irreplaceable community hub,” has garnered over 600 signatures in less than a week.
Debbie Harley, the initiator of the petition, is calling on PKC to rethink their plans, highlighting the significant role libraries play in communities beyond just book lending. Libraries serve as a vital space for individuals of all ages and backgrounds, providing learning opportunities, shared interests, and a sense of community. The closure of Auchterarder Library would not only deprive the community of valuable resources but also have a detrimental impact on the town and its surrounding areas.
Petition signatories have emphasized the importance of libraries as essential community assets, with Frances Spencer expressing how libraries introduce children to new stories and provide adults with the chance to explore different authors. Dawn Smith highlighted that libraries are not just about reading materials but also offer essential services and serve as a community hub. Fi Mac emphasized that libraries are more than just places for books; they are safe spaces for learning, reading, and social connection.
Culture Perth and Kinross, the organization operating the region’s libraries on behalf of PKC, has stated that the final decision on library closures rests with the Council. In a recent development, Perth and Kinross Council approved a three-year indicative council tax strategy that includes increases over the next few years. Council leader Grant Laing mentioned that this strategy could allow for a reconsideration of previous decisions regarding library funding, encouraging communities to actively engage in the consultation process to explore all options for library provision.
The campaign to save Auchterarder Library reflects a broader movement to preserve vital community assets and spaces that play a crucial role in fostering learning, connection, and wellbeing. It underscores the importance of grassroots activism and community engagement in advocating for the preservation of essential services that enrich the lives of residents. As individuals come together to support their local library, they demonstrate the power of collective action in safeguarding cherished institutions that benefit entire communities.