Whilst sharing stories, inspiring reading and helping people discover the joy of books is a daily part of life at High Life Highland Libraries, it is not often that our customers and staff get to do this collectively – but that is exactly what the 'Wee Read Scotland' initiative is all about.
Organised by SLIC (Scottish Library and Information Council), 'Wee Read Scotland' is a new national reading campaign which is being marked this week (Wednesday 7 October) and aims to bring people together to celebrate the joy of reading. Our libraries are taking part right across the Highlands.
Why a wee read matters
There are many benefits to reading. It has the power to connect people, spark imagination and build stronger communities. More simply than that, studies show that reading for even just six minutes a day can reduce stress levels by up to 68 per cent.
Julie Corcoran, Head of Libraries at High Life Highland, explained: "We are delighted to embrace 'Wee Read' across all our libraries – not just this week – but all the time! We know that for just a few minutes every day, reading can improve our reading skills and help combat stress.
"As part of this national campaign we are encouraging everyone to make a pledge to take some time out of their day, pick up a book, relax and share in a reading moment. Whether it be a novel, poetry, comics, magazines, cookbooks, blogs – it doesn't matter – every kind of reading counts.
"And whatever a person's age – High Life Highland libraries can offer a wealth of reading material to choose from!"
Wee reads across the Highlands
Right across the Highlands there are opportunities to get involved, from Achiltibuie, where nursery and school children are being invited to bring along and talk about their favourite books and comics, to Broadford, where Bookbug is making a special appearance to celebrate the day.
In Dingwall, visitors can pick up a teeny tiny book from a literal display of wee reads, while in Fortrose they can make their own wee read in the form of a zine.
Across the region, there are opportunities aplenty to celebrate reading, whether as a shared experience that brings people together or as a source of much-needed peace and solitude. From school and community libraries to some of our smallest rural branches, readers are encouraged to take part in their own way, united by a shared love of stories and reading.
every kind of reading counts
Head of Libraries
School libraries are getting involved too
At Kingussie High School, every pupil will pause to read for six minutes during registration, while Glenurquhart Library is welcoming primary classes to enjoy books, colouring activities and quizzes.
At Nairn Academy, pupils will take part in One Last Wee Read in their existing school before moving into their new premises after the holidays, creating a special reading moment at an important milestone in the school's history.
Make your Wee Read pledge
Julie continued: "High Life Highland Libraries are proud to offer opportunities for readers of all ages to share and celebrate the stories that matter to them. So please do visit your local library to access free books, audiobooks, eBooks, newspapers, magazines and much more."
