Libraries are the heart of our rural communities

Our North East Community Engagement Officer Chelle Marshall explains why she has been part of the campaign to save libraries across the region

Growing up, I was a military brat moving between Scotland and the USA every couple of years. As you can imagine, it makes it pretty difficult to make friends when you are constantly changing schools. And yeah, it could be lonely but I never felt alone. The reason? Books.

Reading releases this magical imagination in a child, whether you are chasing dragons and sailing with pirates, or travelling space and going back in time, it is a perfect escape with every word. You’re probably wondering where I’m going with this, trust me there is a point.

Across Scotland, local councils are closing rural libraries at an alarming rate. In Aberdeenshire alone, there are thirteen currently at risk. One of those libraries resides in the coastal village of Boddam, the place I’ve called home for a decade.

Yes, I took out books but there was so much more. I made friends at coffee mornings, took my daughters to BookBug sessions, as my daughters grew they were able to safely improve their computing skills and access the world through the internet, they were able to socialize and solidify amazing friendships, the list goes on.

Now the downside of living in this quaint coastal village is the weather. Over the course of the last decade I have seen this weather become vastly more extreme. Huge storms with battering wind gusts over 100mph, thunder snow and blizzards, extreme flooding that blocks all access and exit to and from the village, severe damage to homes and the harbour, and major power cuts lasting up to a week (which is crazy when you live in direct view of a gas guzzling power station). And we know this is due to climate change, and to big oil and gas companies stalling their commitment to a just transition for Scotland, and the rest of the world.

During these episodes of volatile weather, our little library becomes more than just a place to take out books. It is a warm space for those without heating. It is internet access so family and friends know you are safe. Even in the rare opportunity that the big ball of fire in the sky appears, a library has so much more than books.

Our elderly have a space to socialize, to feel a little less lonely. Our children have somewhere safe to grow independence and knowledge. Those who maybe need a little help can access a computer to find out what they could be entitled to or find a food bank. Even a smile from a kind librarian on a hard day.

I guess long story short, a library is more than just a building. It’s the heart of our rural communities, and we must ensure that they continue beating for the future generations.

Learn more about the campaign: Save Aberdeenshire Libraries on Facebook and the national campaign Save Our Rural Libraries! | Facebook Group.