Around 20,000 pupils will benefit from anti-racism and equality projects based in school libraries across Scotland. Over 20 schools will be awarded a share of £200,000 from the School Library Improvement Fund.
The project includes a variety of different initiatives, including providing books to support children who have recently arrived from countries like Ukraine and teaching pupils BAME history as part of learning on historical links to slavery in Inverclyde.
A holistic Inclusion Hub to support parents and pupils from diverse backgrounds to feel more included in the school community in Edinburgh will also be provided.
Education secretary Jenny Gilruth said that school libraries “play a key role in our efforts to further boost literacy and continue improving attainment but they are also places where positive values can be developed and celebrated.”
She added the project aims to help young people understand the consequences of racism and ensure they feel empowered to challenge discrimination. The School Libraries Improvement Fund has provided £1.7 million to school library improvement projects since its creation in 2017.
Chief executive of Scottish Library and Information Council Pamela Tulloch said school libraries play a key part in ensuring every young person has the chance to fulfil their full potential.
She added: “We’re particularly proud to award support to those advocating for anti-racism and anti-discrimination through this year’s fund, with many projects aiming to increase those with Additional Support Needs and pupils with English as an Additional Language.”
