School Libraries

CILIP in Scotland (CILIPS) is the Scottish arm of the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals. CILIP is the leading professional body for librarians, information specialists and knowledge managers. Many of our members work in school libraries. We therefore note with concern any proposals to reduce the number of school librarians within a service or any cuts which will result in a part time service. CILIPS recognises that many are facing difficult budget choices as a result of significant financial pressures. However, we maintain that the availability of access to full time professional school librarian expertise contributes to successful delivery of curriculum outcomes, promotion of literacy and reading, and should be retained. School librarians support pupil preparation for the challenges of life in the 21st century in areas such as internet safety, information and digital literacy and the encouragement of reading for pleasure.

We support the Government’s ambition for Scotland to be the best place to grow up and learn and contend that professional school librarians are integral to its realisation. High quality learning opportunities should include access for all school pupils to a professionally trained librarian and information expert with a knowledge of learning styles who is: