Highlighting the role libraries play in closing the attainment gap, combating social isolation and bridging the digital divide, this second round of 2023/24 PLIF funding will see projects enrich the communities they operate in – with a commitment to creating long-term impact.
North and South Ayrshire Libraries have been awarded funding as part of the 2023/24 Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF).
A grant of £11,100 has been given to North Ayrshire Libraries to help with the rebranding of six of its mainland and island libraries.
The ‘Study Sp@ces’ initiative of North Ayrshire Libraries, in collaboration with Ayrshire College, aims to provide secure study areas at local libraries to assist and motivate youth in achieving academic success. Six mainland and island libraries in North Ayrshire will be renamed and marketed as motivating study areas apart from traditional educational settings as part of this project.
A new initiative on digital inclusion called “Stay Connected: Bridging the Digital Divide for Inclusive Communities” will be supported by a grant of £8,035 to South Ayrshire Libraries.
The project’s goal is to equip people with necessary digital skills. The initiative will adopt a customised strategy to serve South Ayrshire’s communities, focusing on individuals who face socioeconomic disadvantage and collaborating with regional agencies and specialists.
In order to support sustainable development and innovation within Scotland’s public libraries, the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), which disburses funding on behalf of the Scottish Government, has chosen five initiatives nationwide to receive grants from the second round of 2023/24 PLIF. These initiatives include ‘Study Sp@ces’ in North Ayrshire and ‘Stay Connected’ in South Ayrshire.
Other projects that got funding from the £100,000 allocated were ‘Sustainable Communities’ by Culture Perth and Kinross, ‘Library Natter Corner’ by Midlothian Council, and ‘Business Matters @ Elgin Library’ by Moray Council.
“Libraries are at the heart of Scotland’s communities, and it is fantastic to see projects brought to life through PLIF funding, making a positive difference to people across the country,” stated Culture Minister
“These initiatives demonstrate the transformative potential of libraries, as they can enhance people’s lives in the communities they serve by teaching about economic welfare and promoting digital inclusivity.
“We’re investing in the long-term wellbeing of our communities by funding projects with the £100,000 provided for this second round of PLIF, and I look forward to seeing more life-changing programmes like these in the future.”
“Libraries contribute to all spheres of social, cultural, and political life by providing equal access to services, resources, and information. Many libraries are expanding their offerings to further evolve and flourish in response to community needs,” stated Pamela Tulloch, chief executive of SLIC.
“With imaginative, sustainable, and innovative projects, the PLIF enables us to support those setting the standard for laying out a bright and inspiring future for Scotland’s public libraries. initiatives that improve the service and leave a legacy of knowledge, expertise, assets, and alliances that will benefit the community long after the financing has ended.”
Funding from the Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF) for 2023–2024 was announced for the first time.
