Deadline: 27-Aug-25
The Scottish Library and Information Council is requesting grant applications to support creative and innovative projects in line with the key aims of ‘Vibrant Libraries, Thriving Schools’ – the national strategy for the development of school libraries in Scotland.
SLIC’s work across the Scottish library and information sector covers a wide range of activities including leadership support, training, advocacy, undertaking research, monitoring standards, facilitating partnerships, and supporting innovation. SLIF aims to fund innovative initiatives that support the sector.
Aims
- The aims are as follows:
- School libraries in Scotland are a key resource and are central to the implementation of Curriculum for Excellence, develop pupil skills for the world of work, and encourage learning that will stay with pupils throughout their lives.
- School libraries in Scotland use digital technology to deliver high quality and efficient digital learning experiences for young people, enabling access to information and creative opportunities.
- School libraries in Scotland are central to education for all ages, develop a culture of reading for pleasure, offer literacy numeracy support from ELC settings through to primary and secondary schools, and enable opportunities for family learning.
- School libraries in Scotland contribute to health literacy, social and mental wellbeing, and provide a safe, trusted space for children and young people to be nurtured.
- School libraries in Scotland are essential to closing the attainment gap, support all curriculum area, are well-supported by the school management team and operate under a successful working model.
Priorities
- This year applications must also support one of the following funding priorities:
- Cross Curricular working and developing employability skills
- Delivering Digital literacy; and exploring digital creativity
- Cluster working and Family Learning
Funding Information
- The fund available is £150,000. There is no minimum or maximum amount for applications. Duration: Projects must be completed within 12 months.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants should be aware that funding is only eligible for schools with a library.
- Successful applications are based on innovative projects with school library services.
- Projects for which funding is sought must be of demonstrable value and have an impact on the development of school library and information services in Scotland. SLIC encourages multidisciplinary and collaborative working, but the school or school library services must be the lead applicant.
- Schools and any collaborative partners must also be following the Scottish Government’s Fair Work First scheme.
Ineligibility Criteria
- Funding cannot be awarded to set up a school library or to refurbish a current school library.
- Applications solely for school library stock and resources are also ineligible.
For more information, visit SLIC.