Library services and closures

Request data on library usage, opening hours, staffing, and any closures or reductions.

Public libraries are a statutory service. An FOI request can show whether your council is maintaining library provision or quietly cutting it back.

Dear [AUTHORITY NAME], Please provide the following information for [FINANCIAL YEAR e.g. 2024-25]: 1. The total number of public libraries operated by the council. 2. The total number of active borrowers and the total number of items issued (physical and digital). 3. The total weekly opening hours for each library, and any changes to opening hours compared with the previous year. 4. The number of library staff (FTE) and any change compared with the previous year. I would prefer to receive this as a spreadsheet or CSV if possible. Yours faithfully, [YOUR NAME]
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Who to send it to#

Your local council’s libraries or culture department. Find your council on the Commissioner’s directory of Scottish public authorities. You can also send your request through WhatDoTheyKnow, which publishes responses online.

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Tips#

  • The Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) publishes annual library statistics. Check the latest figures for context.
  • Asking for changes compared with the previous year (items 3 and 4) highlights any reductions that might not be obvious from a single year’s snapshot.
  • If a library has closed or is proposed for closure, you can follow up with a request for the options appraisal or impact assessment that informed the decision.