‘One card fits all’ plan for libraries

Culture: North and north-east taking part in pilot project

North-east libraries are taking part in a scheme which could revolutionise the way people across Scotland use libraries.

The “one card” initiative, which launches today in Aberdeen, could ultimately mean that a single library card can be used at any library in the country.

The programme is being piloted at venues belonging to Highland Council, Aberdeen City Council and Aberdeenshire Council, as well as Perth and Kinross and Angus councils.

The government believes that removing barriers across the services will spark an upsurge in usage.

Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop will visit Aberdeen Central Library today to kick-start the trial run, and says that the programme will be rolled out nationally if it proves popular.

She added: “We place great importance on public libraries and believe everyone should have access to library services.

“If successful, this pilot will pave the way for a national library card, which will make it easier for people to take advantage of library services wherever they are in Scotland.

“As well as traditional services like book lending, these are also places where people can access free wifi, use a computer and socialise.

“Libraries can empower communities, helping tackle inequality, reduce isolation and boost the local economy.”

The chief executive of High Life Highland, Ian Murray, added: “This is a historic occasion and a significant milestone in bringing library services together to better serve our customers.”

The single library card pilot has been supported by £15,000 from the Public Library Improvement Fund (PLIF), a Scottish Government reserve.

There are 120 libraries taking part in the pilot scheme across the five chosen local authority areas.

Combined they contain 1.6million books and more than 600 computers.

The Scottish Library and Information Council, an independent advisory body to the Scottish Government, last night hailed the scheme.

The group’s chief executive Pamela Tulloch said: “One of the fundamental defining characteristics of public libraries is that they are open to everyone. No one is turned away from a library, there is no joining fee, and anyone can use a library and its services, regardless of age and background.”

“We believe everyone should have access to library services”