Readers in Shetland are invited to experience the excitement of the Edinburgh International Book Festival this August.
Shetland Library has been invited to be part of their Libraries Streaming - a programme of free live-streamed events featuring some of the biggest names in contemporary literature.
The programme, supported by the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), includes internationally acclaimed novelist Elif Shafak, award-winning Irish author Colm Tóibín, broadcaster Lorraine Kelly, bestselling crime writer Chris Brookmyre, and many more. Through live streaming from the festival, audiences in Shetland can enjoy inspiring conversations with celebrated writers, journalists and thinkers from the comfort of the library.
It is a unique opportunity to be part of one of the world's most celebrated literary festivals—without the cost or distance of travelling to Edinburgh.
For many people in Shetland, attending the Edinburgh International Book Festival simply isn't practical. By having the opportunity to stream events live, Shetland Library is ensuring that geography is no barrier. It is another example of the vital role libraries play in making culture, learning and inspiration accessible to everyone.
The programme is especially significant during the National Year of Reading, which celebrates reading for pleasure and encourages people of all ages to discover books that inspire, entertain and inform. The events are free of charge, removing financial barriers and ensuring more people can enjoy this unique literary experience. Whether you're a lifelong reader, keen to hear from a favourite author or simply looking to discover something new, there's an event to spark everyone's curiosity.
Catherine Jeromson, Team Leader for Reader Services at Shetland Library, says: "Living in an island community shouldn't mean missing out on opportunities to hear from some of the biggest names in literature. Libraries have always championed equal access to knowledge, culture and ideas, and we are very thankful to our colleagues at SLIC and the Edinburgh International Book Festival to be able to continue that equity of access. During the National Year of Reading, these events are a wonderful reminder that books have the power to broaden our horizons, inspire conversation and bring communities together."
The programme also features events with writer and GP Gavin Francis, journalist Stephen McGinty, broadcaster and author Sally Magnusson, alongside many other distinguished guests from this year's Festival. All events are free to attend, but registration is required as places are limited.
For details of the full programme and to book your place, visit the Shetland Library website from Friday 31st July. Follow the Library's social media channels for more information.