A project to support the visually impaired and people with additional needs access reading in Orkney and Shetland has received £5,500 through the Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF).
Eight library projects designed to enrich communities across Scotland are sharing in funding of £106,868 through the Scottish Government’s PLIF.
The Scottish Government’s Culture Minister Christina McKelvie said:
“The Scottish Government places great importance on public libraries. We believe that everyone should have access to library services. So I’m pleased to announce this first round of projects for the 2023-24 year – eight new programmes that will make a positive difference to local communities across Scotland.
“I understand first-hand the valuable service libraries provide across Scotland – during my childhood, my local library was a real sanctuary for enjoyable learning and it played an important role in my development.”
The Orkney and Shetland Project ‘Making a Noise in the North’ “concentrates on improving the reading experience for users with additional needs, such as visually impaired and dyslexic customers. Also key to the project is promotion of library services and staff development.”
Pamela Tulloch, Chief Executive of the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), said:
“Public libraries, through their diverse offerings and inclusive nature, contribute to all areas of social, cultural and daily life. They allow people equal access to services, resources and information, and many are continually building on their offering to further transform and thrive in line with the changing demands and requirements of their users.
“Investing in our public libraries is not just about enhancing physical spaces; it’s about empowering minds, fostering a love for learning and bridging gaps to ensure equal access for all. The Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF), from the Scottish Government, allows services across Scotland to enhance their offering to provide further support which benefits the communities in which they operate.
“With people, place and partnership at the heart, we can’t wait to see how the eight projects awarded funding flourish over the next 12 months and would encourage public libraries across Scotland to consider how they can help lead the way in developing our services and apply for the second round of funding today.”
