Pictured: Members of our Libraries team with Chief Executive, Kenneth Lawrie who visited Denny Library earlier this year.

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'Libraries for Wellbeing', a ground-breaking initiative created by our Libraries Service, has once again been recognized for its outstanding impact on mental health and community wellbeing.

The project was recently shortlisted for the EDGE2023 awards, earning second place in the ‘Social’ category among entries from across the UK.

Although the project didn’t win, it was awarded runner up which is a fantastic acknowledgment of Libraries' commitment to improving the lives of local people.

Kenny Gillespie, Head of Housing and Communities, said:

"Our libraries have become a vital hub, offering a wide range of resources and activities to support individuals who may be lonely or simply want to seek connection with others in a safe and welcoming environment. This national recognition underscores the project's effectiveness and the library's dedication to making a positive difference."

A love of reading

In addition to the success of ‘Libraries for Wellbeing’, individual library staff members have also been commended for their contributions.

Debbie Scott (pictured above), Senior Library Assistant at Denny Library, was shortlisted for the Bookbug Community Hero award. Although she did not secure the top prize, she received an honourable mention from the Scottish Book Trust for her commitment to nurturing a love for reading and literacy in young children.

Debbie was also invited to visit the HQ of the Scottish Book Trust in Edinburgh and to help pick the picture books for this year’s Bookbug bags for babies and toddlers, which she said was a “wonderful experience and a great opportunity”.

Capturing memories

Naomi Kenny, Equalities Librarian, was also invited to speak at the Memories Scotland Conference in Glasgow. Her presentation was such a success she was asked to feature in a film, which you can watch below, to highlight best practice. 

Naomi's expertise and dedication to promoting inclusivity within library services has earned her recognition as a trailblazer in the field. Because of her work, she has now been asked to deliver training sessions to other library services, further spreading Falkirk Libraries' innovative approaches.

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Inspired by her conference experience, Naomi is now developing Football Memories Scotland sessions. These sessions will primarily be aimed at men, with the objective of reducing social isolation.

Louise Graham, Team Leader Library Services, said:

“Debbie’s honourable mention and Naomi's increasing prominence within library services in Scotland highlight the dedication and expertise of our team. Their contributions have been exceptional. They truly embody the spirit of community engagement and inclusivity that we strive for at Falkirk Libraries."