Islands Literacy Symposium

Western Isles Libraries

Gathering key voices together for a conversation about literacy in Outer Hebrides.

Town Hall

Literacy has the power to shape futures, and is fundamental to all areas of learning. Reading ability is one of the biggest indicators of quality of life in adulthood, but recent studies show that young people’s reading for enjoyment is at crisis point (National Literacy Trust, 2024). Across the Western Isles we see many innovative approaches to improving literacy. Coordinating our efforts can strengthen our impact and lead to more effective, lasting change.To gather key voices together, Western Isles Libraries are hosting a networking breakfast with the Scottish Book Trust and Scotland’s Makar, Peter Mackay.Let’s step outside our silos for the morning and join fellow literacy champions to explore the future of literacy in our island communities. From strengthening Gaelic reading culture to forging new partnerships amid funding challenges: how can we work together to find innovative solutions?Whether you're an educator, librarian, writer, decision-maker, parent, or community advocate, your voice matters.Our 2025 theme is building a reading culture. Be part of this important conversation.***Free after-school PDAs part of the Islands Literacy Symposium, we are offering FREE Reading Schools CPD for teachers and school staff with the Scottish Book Trust: Tuesday 18th March, 3.30-4.30pm. Book <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/reading-schools-roadshow-tickets-1216617689259?aff=oddtdtcreator" title="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/reading-schools-roadshow-tickets-1216617689259?aff=oddtdtcreator">HERE.</a> Both events will be live-streamed.

<h3>Programme</h3>8.30 Early birds - doors open for networking &amp; coffee9.00 Welcome and open with Peter Mackay, Scotland's Makar9.15 Literacy Showcase [Lightning Talks]The Scottish Book Trust will set the scene on literacy in Scotland and facilitate a series of 'lightning talks' from local practitioners. From bilingual storytime, silent reading for grown-ups and Stornoway's new, dedicated Children’s Library, discover the innovative ways they are engaging and nurturing readers of all ages:<ul><li>Elaine Poke, Early Years Curriculum Teacher &amp; Hannah Gillies, Adult Literacy &amp; Numeracy Support Worker</li><li>Catherine Macleod, Principal Teacher &amp; Peigi Nicolson, Head of School, Stornoway Primary</li><li>Angela Macaskill, STEM Ambassador, UHI Stornoway</li><li>Renee Mason, Libraries Manager, Western Isles Libraries</li></ul>9.45 Building a Gaelic reading culture in the Western Isles [Panel]Chaired by Agnes Rennie, this panel will look ahead to the future of Gaelic literacy and reading, explore the possibilities that exist within the room, and discuss how we can work together to build a Gaelic reading culture across our islands. Panel includes Peter Mackay, Scotland's Makar, and Finlay Maclennan, Gaelic &amp; Outreach Librarian, Western Isles Libraries.10.15 Where to from here? [Table Discussion]Facilitated reflection with the Scottish Book TrustClosing Remarks from Peter Mackay, Scotland's Makar

This event is supported by the Scottish Government Public Library Improvement Fund, the Scottish Library &amp; Information Council and the Scottish Book Trust.It is hosted by Leabharlainn nan Eilean Siar/Western Isles Libraries. For queries, please contact Renee Mason, Libraries Manager: renee.mason@cne-siar.gov.uk or call 01851 822 744.

Our {communityGuidelinesLink} describe the sort of content we prohibit on Eventbrite. If you suspect an event may be in violation, you can report it to us so we can investigate.

To report other categories of prohibited or illegal content, submit {link}

Islands Literacy Symposium

More upcoming events from Western Isles Libraries

Discover more upcoming events from Western Isles Libraries, from Family & Education to other experiences you might love.

Islands Literacy Symposium

More upcoming events from Western Isles Libraries

Discover more upcoming events from Western Isles Libraries, from Family & Education to other experiences you might love.

More Family & Education events

Browse more Family & Education events with different dates, prices, and formats to find your next great experience.