Library funding for Balfron High

Balfron High has received a cash boost from a national funding programme to support creative and innovative projects within school libraries.

The School Library Improvement Fund backs activities which meet key education priorities, including literacy development, information and digital learning and health and wellbeing.

The secondary school has secured £3200 from the fund, which is administered by the Scottish Library and Information Council on behalf of the Scottish Government.

Cash from the fund will pay for training and books to encourage young people to discuss mental health issues in a safe space.

Thirty-four school library projects across Scotland have received a total of £272,00 in the latest round of funding. A new funding round is set to open for applications on January 10 with £170,000 available for creative projects to enhance school library provision.

SLIF was launched in 2017 as a three-year £1 million fund to transform school libraries.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “School libraries have a vital part to play in supporting literacy and improving attainment right across the curriculum.

“We want libraries to be the vibrant hub of our schools and (this money) will strengthen their role.

“I am very pleased to see recipients focusing on not only literacy but health and wellbeing, STEM, and digital learning and engagement with their wider community.”

Pamela Tulloch, chief executive at SLIC, said: “School libraries have embraced the opportunity to develop new ways of engaging with pupils and the wider school community, enhancing the learning experience and attainment levels.

“Research shows a well-run school library can impact positively on attainment and attitudes to learning. School libraries have enjoyed increased support since the introduction of the national school library strategy and we hope this continues to deliver long-lasting and sustainable benefits.”