Libraries across Scotland are set to expand their role in local communities by offering free advocacy services to help people access and understand Social Security Scotland benefits.
The new initiative has been launched through a partnership between the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) and national charity Advice Direct Scotland.
As part of the scheme, trained advocates from Advocacy.scot, operated by Advice Direct Scotland, will provide face-to-face support in selected libraries across the country.
The first phase of the rollout will include libraries in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Fife and Aberdeenshire.
Participating locations include Coldside, Lochee and Wellgate libraries in Dundee, Drumbrae and Leith libraries in Edinburgh, and Bridgeton, Dennistoun and Elder Park libraries in Glasgow.
The service is designed to provide in-person support for people who need help understanding or accessing Social Security Scotland benefits, offering an alternative to online services.
Organisers hope the partnership will make advocacy more accessible while strengthening the role of libraries as community hubs.
Visitors using the service will also be encouraged to explore the wider range of learning opportunities, resources and activities available through their local library.
The Scottish Library and Information Council is the Scottish Government's independent adviser on library and information services, supporting innovation and development across libraries nationwide.
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Alison Nolan, chief executive of SLIC, said: "Libraries are trusted public spaces that sit at the heart of communities, offering connection, learning, and support to people of all ages.
"By partnering with Advice Direct Scotland, we can extend that support even further, ensuring that anyone who needs advice can access it easily, locally, and without barriers.
"This collaboration strengthens the role of libraries as essential community anchors and helps build a more inclusive and resilient Scotland."
Marjorie Gibson, operation director at Advice Direct Scotland, said: "Our mission is to ensure everyone in Scotland can access free, impartial advocacy when they need it most.
"Libraries are welcoming, familiar environments and bringing our advocates into these spaces will help us reach even more people in a way that feels comfortable and accessible.
"We’re proud to work with SLIC to expand our support and connect communities with the right guidance at the right time."
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