Glasgow Live has reported that three of the libraries that will not reopen are Govanhill, Langside and Pollokshields. It has been announced that as a result of a loss of income due to Covid-19, libraries around Glasgow will indefinitely remain closed.

Libraries are fundamental to the areas that they serve. They provide free access to the internet, a space to socialise outside of the home and, access to free books. For many children, and adults, libraries exist as a safe space outside of their homes. They are also in support of the Scottish Government's policy to 'close the attainment gap' as they provide a place for children to study and engage with learning*.

South West Govanhill is one of the most densely populated areas in Scotland, with a high proportion of low income residents. In a 2018/2019 study, it was found that Govanhill has the highest proportion of children from low income families with the percentage sitting at 70%, Pollokshields is second highest at 49% - the Glasgow average is 27.8%**. According to a 2016 Scottish Government survey, "Households in Scotland’s 20 per cent most deprived areas continue to be less likely than those in the rest of Scotland to have home internet access." ***

The aim of this petition is to ask Glasgow Life and Glasgow City Council to reconsider their decision regarding the closure of these essential services.

References:

* https://www.gov.scot/policies/schools/pupil-attainment/

** https://www.understandingglasgow.com/indicators/children/poverty/children_in_poverty/comparison/comparisons_within_glasgow/neighbourhood

*** https://www.gov.scot/publications/scotlands-people-annual-report-results-2016-scottish-household-survey/pages/7/