I was honoured to be asked to chair the Public Library Strategy Advisory Group and to facilitate the conversations that helped shape the vision set out in Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy 2021-2025.

The development of the strategy involved virtual meetings and library visits due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rather than hinder the process it opened the dialogue to a wide audience and highlighted the strength of the global library network and the generous and co-operative nature of the profession.

The Advisory Group brought together a range of people from across the library sectors and stakeholder organisations to examine the emerging trends and issues facing public libraries as well as broader societal issues. The group met over three informative and inspiring sessions, each of which focused in turn on the overarching themes of People, Place and Partnership. A programme of virtual visits provided practical examples of innovation and best practice.

The Advisory Group meetings highlighted common goals for members and provided opportunity for collaboration as part of a broader societal mission to help communities reset and thrive. Library staff across Scotland demonstrated their commitment to stay connected to their communities during lockdown, to really think outside the box and to design new models of delivery.

Forward: Scotland’s Public Library Strategy 2021-2025 is a bold new vision for libraries in Scotland. It builds on strong foundations and demonstrates that public libraries are the cornerstone of communities. The impact which public libraries will make as a result of this strategy will support community cohesion over the coming years, build capacity and promote wellbeing.

I would like to thank the Advisory Group members, the Scottish Government, COSLA and SLIC for their time, commitment, and invaluable input to the development and production of this strategy.