Over the last couple of months, my email inbox has been full of submissions from constituents who are concerned about the potential closure of the library in Comrie. SNP-led Perth and Kinross Council cuts to the Culture Perth and Kinross budget has put the futures of libraries across the region at risk. This affects Scone, North Inch, Perth, Dunkeld, Alyth, Auchterarder, and Coupar Angus.
The sheer number of correspondences I have received shows the strength of feeling amongst the local community which wants this library to remain open. This was also reflected at the meeting at the White Church at the end of October which was very well attended. I was unfortunately unable to make this meeting due to parliamentary commitments but sent someone on my behalf to provide me with a full briefing.
The large turnout also added to the considerable frustration amongst local people that a full consultation process had not been carried out by Culture Perth and Kinross. Had that happened, it would have shown the depth of opposition to the proposals.
I would therefore like to thank the excellent work undertaken by the Save Comrie Library group for raising the profile of this issue. Even many frequent library users were unaware of the situation, so without them this could have easily slipped under the radar.
There is substantial evidence which shows that libraries generate significant economic, educational, and social value - all of which outweigh the short-term costs in operating them. They are also critical in tackling inequalities by providing wide-ranging learning resources to those who could otherwise not afford them. But we all know libraries go far beyond simple access to books and intellectual stimulation; they are important social hubs and for local networking, which is even more the case in rural communities where other indoor facilities are so scarce.
Then there is, of course, the general social impact. We are all aware of the considerable increase in crime and anti-social behaviour across Strathearn which, sadly, is being predominately driven by a minority of young people. Just like other local assets, such as sporting facilities, the closure of yet another public facility will do nothing to help alleviate the situation.
My colleague Murdo Fraser MSP and l would like to see a re-allocation of money awarded to local authorities to ensure we can keep these important community assets open.
