Chamber
Meeting of the Parliament 18 February 2026 [Draft]
18 Feb 2026 · S6 · Meeting of the Parliament
Item of business
Portfolio Question Time
Libraries
Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, but since the Scottish National Party came to power, 16 per cent—that is, 97—of them have closed. Funding has fallen by 30 per cent, but footfall has increased by 40 per cent. In my region, just in the city of Aberdeen, six libraries have closed, with further proposals to cut the number of school librarians, leaving many communities without access to these vital services.
I heard what the cabinet secretary said, and that is welcome, but what specific action—beyond having meetings and discussions—will he take now to stop further library closures? Why are communities, including pupils, paying the price for the SNP’s failure to protect local services?
In the same item of business
1. Tess White (North East Scotland) (Con)
Con
To ask the Scottish Government what assessment it has made of the current state of libraries in Scotland as part of any action it is taking to protect and st...
The Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture (Angus Robertson)
SNP
As of 1 February 2026, 450 of 461 public libraries across Scotland were open, with a further eight libraries scheduled to reopen. Some remain closed due to r...
Tess White
Con
Libraries are the beating heart of our communities, but since the Scottish National Party came to power, 16 per cent—that is, 97—of them have closed. Funding...
Angus Robertson
SNP
First, decisions about local provision are, in the first instance, for local authorities.I reprise my point that we are being well advised by the Scottish Li...
Patrick Harvie (Glasgow) (Green)
Green
The cabinet secretary may have seen a recent report by The Ferret about the growth of book-ban campaigns across Scotland, many of which are motivated by homo...
Angus Robertson
SNP
I listened closely to what has just been raised, which is a matter of concern. Our proceedings are watched outside the chamber, including by the likes of the...
Bill Kidd (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP)
SNP
Cabinet secretary, libraries and community centres often provide a valuable space for events, connection and digital inclusion. Do you agree that they are vi...
The Deputy Presiding Officer (Annabelle Ewing)
SNP
Always speak through the chair.
Angus Robertson
SNP
I recognise the important role that libraries and community centres play in providing access to information technology, improving attainment, supporting chil...
Foysol Choudhury (Lothian) (Ind)
Ind
Following recent reports of violence against Edinburgh library staff, what discussions is the Scottish Government having with Police Scotland and local autho...
Angus Robertson
SNP
I have not had such discussions, but Mr Choudhury’s question raises concerns that I would share with him. If he can forward any information about specific in...