LAST year, public libraries in Scotland attracted more than 40 million visits. The figure includes 13.5 million virtual visits through online library services and 27 million visits through the doors: a footfall many commercial organisations would envy.

The figure also reveals the changing nature of public library use. People are still borrowing books but increasing numbers are using their library to access digital information, as a space to learn and to take part in creative and community-based activities and events.

The information age and digital technology are moving at such a fast pace it can at times seem an overwhelming task to keep up. Indeed, the pace of information technology has led to the existence and value of public libraries being questioned. Why do we need libraries when we have all of the information we need at our fingertips at the click of a button?

However, public libraries have demonstrated tremendous resilience. In fact, the internet and the rise of digital technology have positively influenced the value of libraries. Last year, more than 3.2 million hours of internet access were recorded in public libraries in Scotland. They are carving out a role that remains true to their traditional ethos but that also embraces change and innovation.

It is just over a year since Scotland’s first national public library strategy was launched to provide a blueprint for how libraries can create a service fit for the 21st century. In that time, more than £2.3 million has been invested in libraries to fund initiatives that meet the aims of the strategy.

The nature of the projects funded reflects the changing habits of library users. One project has funded the delivery of free wifi to every public library across the country, allowing people to use their own mobiles, tablets and other devices.

Scanners and 3D printers have been delivered to every library service, offering free access for hobbyists and budding entrepreneurs to explore their creativity. Coding clubs and science, technology, engineering and maths activities for children are taking place in libraries. These digital projects demonstrate that, far from making libraries redundant, the digital information age has presented an opportunity for transformation and strengthened the role they play in providing information, and supporting skills and learning.

Libraries are trusted spaces at the heart of digital participation and they are ideally placed to break down barriers to digital access.

Libraries also deliver key services as part of multi-agency models of support for local communities, with hubs offering advice on welfare, employment and health issues.

A small, but growing, number of libraries provide a mutual work space for entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises. The Macmillan @ Glasgow Libraries initiative, which offers information and support for those affected by cancer, is a successful, award-winning example of how libraries can be a lifeline for sections of the community.

We expect this trend to continue as more national and local partners work with library services to reach communities. The days of silence are behind us as singing, movies and musical and theatrical performances are commonplace in libraries, turning them into buzzing hives of activity. Libraries are about more than books.

They help to deliver wider government aims to make the nation stronger, more successful and healthier. They represent exceptional value for money for the public purse; for every £1 of public money invested in libraries, £8 worth of benefit to the community is delivered.

Libraries empower and inspire people and tackle inequalities through access to information. They are vital to the prosperity of our economic and skills development, education, culture and heritage.

Libraries have continued to innovate and change to reflect the changing needs of their users. They are as relevant today as when they were first established.

The national strategy has provided library services with a focus to move in the same direction together, using combined strength to build the service.

Coupled with intrinsic community links and a resilient and determined workforce, libraries will be a key part of our culture and heritage for many decades to come.

Pamela Tulloch is chief executive at the Scottish Library and Information Council.