Deadline: 08-Jun-2026
The School Library Improvement Fund supports innovative projects in school libraries across Scotland, aligned with the national strategy Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools. It funds initiatives that improve reading culture, digital literacy, equity of access to books, and learner wellbeing.
The programme has a total budget of £150,000, with flexible grant amounts and a 12-month delivery period.
About the Fund
This funding programme strengthens school library services by supporting creative and impactful projects that enhance learning, literacy, and student engagement.
Projects must align with at least one priority from:
- Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools: A National Strategy for School Libraries in Scotland 2018–2023
Key Funding Priorities
All funded projects must support at least one of the following:
Reading & Literacy
- Promoting reading for pleasure
- Building whole-school reading cultures
- Improving literacy skills
Access & Equity
- Increasing access to books and library resources
- Reducing barriers to reading engagement
- Enhancing inclusive library services
Digital & Information Skills
- Strengthening digital literacy
- Supporting information literacy and research skills
- Promoting safe and effective use of digital tools
Wellbeing & Engagement
- Supporting pupil wellbeing through reading
- Encouraging creativity and learning
- Strengthening partnerships to widen engagement
Eligible Project Types
The fund supports innovative library-based initiatives such as:
- Shared reading programmes
- Mental health and wellbeing reading projects
- Digital creativity and storytelling initiatives
- Literacy and learning support activities
- Skills development for students and staff
- Partnership projects with external organisations
All projects must demonstrate measurable impact on school library services.
Funding Details
- Total fund: £150,000
- Grant size: No minimum or maximum limit
- Project duration: Up to 12 months
- Location: Scotland only
Eligible Applicants
The programme is open to:
- State nurseries in Scotland
- Primary schools in Scotland
- Secondary schools in Scotland
- Schools with an established library
Application Types
1. Individual Applications
- Submitted by a single school library
- Within one local authority
2. Collaborative Applications
- Involving two or more schools
- May span multiple local authorities
- Can include external partners
- Must be led by school library services
Requirements for Funding
All applicants must:
- Align with national school library strategy
- Demonstrate innovation and measurable outcomes
- Show clear impact on literacy and engagement
- Comply with Scottish Government Fair Work First principles
- Complete the project within 12 months
Key Objectives
The fund aims to:
- Improve school library services
- Enhance reading engagement and literacy
- Promote equitable access to learning resources
- Strengthen digital and information literacy
- Support student wellbeing and creativity
- Encourage cross-school collaboration
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Identify a school library need or opportunity
- Design an innovative reading or literacy project
- Align with national strategy priorities
- Build measurable outcomes and evaluation methods
- Submit either an individual or collaborative application
Strong proposals typically include:
- Clear literacy or engagement outcomes
- Strong school or community partnerships
- Innovative use of digital or creative methods
- Evidence of impact measurement
Tips for Applicants
To strengthen applications:
- Focus on improving reading culture across the whole school
- Include student voice and participation
- Demonstrate clear impact on literacy or wellbeing
- Highlight collaboration between schools or partners
- Ensure measurable evaluation methods are included
Avoid projects that lack clear educational or library-focused outcomes.
FAQ
Who can apply?
State nurseries, primary schools, and secondary schools in Scotland with an established library.
How much funding is available?
A total of £150,000 is available, with no fixed minimum or maximum grant size.
How long do projects last?
All projects must be completed within 12 months.
Can schools collaborate?
Yes, collaborative applications across schools and local authorities are encouraged.
What is the main focus?
Reading culture, literacy, digital skills, and student wellbeing.
Are external partners allowed?
Yes, especially in collaborative projects led by school library services.
Conclusion
The School Library Improvement Fund strengthens school library services across Scotland by supporting innovative, inclusive, and impactful projects. By promoting reading, digital literacy, and wellbeing, it enhances educational outcomes and fosters a stronger culture of learning in schools.
For more information, visit SLIC.