Edinburgh Libraries Named Scotland Winner at British Book Awards

Libraries across Edinburgh are celebrating after being recognised at the prestigious Library of the Year Award at The British Book Awards 2026.

The collaborative work of Oxgangs Library, Saughton Library at HMP Edinburgh and the Mobile Library Service have been named Scotland Regional and Country Winner for Library of the Year.

Their Secret Santa Project saw individuals in custody receive specially selected library books, gift-wrapping them so recipients would have something meaningful to open on Christmas Day.

The partnership will now go forward for the overall Library of the Year Award, with the final winner to be announced at The British Book Awards 2026.

Alongside the regional win, other Edinburgh libraries were also recognised as finalists in the Scotland category.

Kirkliston and South Queensferry Library were recognised for their role supporting children and young people through transition between primary school and high school by working with local schools to promote literacy, encourage reading for pleasure and expand educational opportunities for children and young people in the local areas.

Meanwhile, Craigmillar Librarywas shortlisted for their work with young people to create a teenage book group, where the young people have not only developed a love of reading, they have also learned new skills in areas such as creative writing and research. 

Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said:

I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve been recognised as a Regional and Country winner for Library of the Year. This achievement is testament to the dedication and creativity of the teams at Oxgangs, Saughton Library at HMP Edinburgh and our Mobile Libraries service, whose hard work has made this possible.

They delivered a thoughtful Secret Santa initiative that provided gift-wrapped books for people in custody at what can be a particularly lonely time of year. The project not only helped boost participation with the library but brought comfort to so many.

My congratulations also go to the teams at Craigmillar and Kirkliston and South Queensferry Libraries who were recognised as finalists. I’m so proud that we have such a fantastic library service across the whole city.

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