Scotland was once seen as a leader in school library provision, but cuts, inconsistent staffing and ageing facilities now threaten to undermine literacy just as other nations ramp up investment, warns Alison Nolan.

As we enter 2026 — an election year and the National Year of Reading — the spotlight is turning sharply onto literacy, libraries and the future of young people. Across the UK and around the world, governments are taking decisive action to bolster reading, tackle declining literacy and reinvest in school libraries. Yet Scotland, once regarded as a leader in library provision, now risks falling behind.

When Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools – a National Strategy for School Libraries in Scotland 2018-2023 was launched, Scotland was setting the pace. We were viewed as progressive, a nation that recognised libraries as essential components of education, wellbeing and community life. Today, however, the landscape is shifting, and not in our favour.

Recent months have seen significant government attention on education, reading for pleasure and school libraries — but it’s all happening south of the border. While our neighbours are taking decisive steps, Scotland is in danger of leaving its children and communities without the access, resources and support they need to thrive.

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In September, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced that every primary school in England will have a library by 2029, including furniture, books and staff training — a commitment backed by more than £10 million in dormant assets. On top of this, the UK Government has earmarked £5 million to provide every secondary school in England with £1,400 for new library books in 2026/27. Schools with librarians will be able to maximise this investment, curating collections that inspire, engage and develop young minds.

Wales too has pledged dedicated financial support for the National Year of Reading through micro-grants aimed at........

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