Edinburgh Library for the Homeless Faces Closure After Sudden Eviction
The Streetreads library in Edinburgh is set to close following an unexpected eviction, leaving many vulnerable individuals without vital support.
Edinburgh, Scotland, Homelessness, Library, Simon Community
Edinburgh: The Streetreads library, which serves the homeless, is facing closure after a sudden eviction. This library, run by Simon Community Scotland, has been a lifeline for many.
It relies on donations and fundraising, costing about £75,000 a year to operate. Now, the charity is scrambling to find a new location to keep this essential service running.
Fiona Williamson, the Head of Service, expressed her deep concern about the impact of this closure. She mentioned that Streetreads has grown significantly since it opened in 2021, and losing it would create a huge gap in support for those in need.
Regular visitors like Michelle see it as more than just a library; it’s a sanctuary where they feel valued. Lorraine McGrath, the CEO, highlighted the urgent need for safe spaces, especially as homelessness continues to rise in Edinburgh.
With the eviction, the charity faces increased costs for a new location, which could add an extra £20,000 a year to their budget. Supporters, including well-known authors like Ian Rankin, have voiced their concerns and hopes for finding a new home for Streetreads.
Rankin shared his long-standing support for the library, emphasizing its importance to the community. Michael Pedersen, Edinburgh’s Makar, also praised the library as a vital resource, calling for more support to ensure it continues to thrive.
As the search for a new space begins, the community is rallying to keep this beacon of hope alive for those who rely on it.