Aberdeen Central Library will become one of the first locations in Scotland to host a “repair and upcycle” hub as part of a major pioneering project.
Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) will open 10 Lend and Mend points across the country next year to help communities lead more sustainable lives.
Funded by the John Lewis Partnership’s £1 million circular future fund, the initiative aims to encourage more people to repair, reuse, rent and upcycle everyday items.
As well as Aberdeen, public libraries in Inverclyde, Midlothian, Perth and South Ayrshire have also been selected to create a wide network of sustainable, circular hubs.
Pamela Tulloch, chief executive of SLIC, hopes this will be the first step to developing a long-term model for expanding and diversifying the scope of such public spaces.
She said: “At a time when all of Scotland’s communities are experiencing economic and environmental challenges, the introduction of this network will build on the important role our public libraries provide, giving people access to resources they might not otherwise have to support responsible consumption and learning, locally and free.
“With the first phase of library partners selected, we can’t wait to see these local library services transform and thrive for the long-term benefit of us all.”
Positive contribution to communities
The projects will follow a co-design approach with local service teams and to tailor each location to the particular community’s needs.
Once completed, each hub will also introduce an education programme to support new skills development, helping to reduce inequality through equitable access to resources.
Martin Greig, Aberdeen City Council culture spokesman, said: “This is a welcome service to offer in the Aberdeen Libraries and a good way to indicate the value that libraries can offer to the community.
“Our local hub will provide an opportunity to contribute in a positive way towards the environmental agenda.”
Conversation