AN innovative library project in South Ayrshire has been honoured with a national award.
The Girvan Lend and Mend project won a 2025 Excellence Award from the Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) Awards.
The South Ayrshire Libraries project was recognised for the outstanding delivery of a new permanent community hub for borrowing, repairing and upcycling resources, alongside a major relocation.
Judges said: "The project balanced the challenge of moving premises while maintaining services and community engagement, with staff leading a seamless transition that expanded opportunities for learning, encouraged sustainable practices and increased social connection through free classes, volunteer-led workshops and intergenerational activities.
"Expanding the service, the new Lending Collection also allows users to borrow high-cost DIY resources, such as power tools and wallpaper strippers at no cost, helping households save money, build practical skills and see the library as far more than a place for books.
"Since reopening, Girvan Library has seen significant increases in footfall, the formation of new community groups and a lasting impact on wellbeing and inclusion, positioning it as a model of innovation, sustainability and resilience in library service delivery."
Judge Garrett Baylor Stell praised the project, saying: “Innovative and clear in its initial goal, the project showed the service's ability and willingness to continue to add and expand to what is on offer.
"Keeping a similar approach and philosophy, the lending of tools meets a similar need but greatly expands the service.”
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