Politics: We must act now to protect our local libraries from closure

Libraries are more than just a place to borrow books — they are an essential connecting hub for our communities, writes Banffshire and Buchan Coast MSP Karen Adam.

From tackling loneliness to bridging the digital divide, libraries provide a lifeline to so many people.

Yet, right now, they are under threat. Across Moray and Aberdeenshire, closures are being proposed, and I can’t stress enough how vital it is for us to act now to protect them.

I recently met with the Cullen Save Our Library group, alongside local community council leaders and councillors, to discuss the critical importance of protecting our libraries and the services they provide.

It was a productive meeting, and I’m grateful for the passion and dedication shown by everyone involved.

I’m now working towards organising a public meeting to ensure the wider community can have their say and get involved in shaping the next steps.

Details will be shared soon, so please keep an eye on my Facebook page, Karen Adam MSP, for updates. Please contact me by calling 01779 400 601 or email karen.adam.msp@parliament.scot

When you think about libraries, you might picture shelves of books — and yes, they are a treasure trove for readers of all ages.

But libraries are so much more. They are warm spaces for people who can’t afford to heat their homes all day.

They are hubs where parents with young children come for story time, where older people gather for social events, and where young people access quiet spaces to study.

In an age when almost everything is digital, libraries provide free access to WiFi and computers, which many people don’t have at home.

From applying for jobs to connecting with loved ones, this access is life-changing.

For rural communities, libraries are often the only public space where people can meet, learn, and connect.

They provide the kind of support that can’t be replaced by pop-up services or outreach vans.

Once they’re gone, we’ll realise just how much we relied on them.

Moray Council is consulting on plans to close libraries in Cullen, Dufftown, Keith, Fochabers, Lossiemouth, Burghead, and Tomintoul. The idea is to replace them with an outreach service that brings pop-up libraries and tailored activities to rural areas.

Meanwhile, Aberdeenshire Council has announced the closure of 13 libraries, including Macduff, and Rosehearty, with no consultation at all. This decision feels rushed and deeply unfair.

Communities found out about it through the media, and campaigners have been left scrambling to save these essential spaces.

I understand that councils are under immense financial pressure. Budgets are tight, and tough decisions must be made.

But cutting libraries is a false economy. The savings made from closures don’t compare to the long-term costs of increased social isolation, digital exclusion and reduced access to education.

Libraries are preventative services. They keep people connected, supported, and engaged.

Taking them away will only create more problems for councils to solve down the line.

Libraries have always been about equality. They started as places where only the wealthy could access books and knowledge.

Over time, they became public spaces, offering everyone the chance to learn, grow, and connect. That transformation was a commitment to fairness, and we must honour it now.

Moray Council’s consultation is open until December 1. This is your chance to have your say and make sure your voice is heard.

You can participate in the consultation on the Moray Council website.

Aberdeenshire residents can also find out more information on their council’s website.

I am committed to working with communities across Banffshire and Buchan Coast to fight for our libraries.

Losing our libraries would mean losing spaces where people feel welcome, safe and supported.

It would mean taking away opportunities to learn, to connect and to grow. We can’t let that happen.

I urge you to speak up, get involved and share your stories.

Together, we can ensure our libraries continue to serve as the lifeline they have always been.