Streetreads – our new film

“I’ve been a long-time fan of Streetreads and have seen first-hand the great work they do. Books can transport us anywhere, to times and worlds that excite and stimulate. That’s hugely important, no matter who you are or what your circumstances are.” 

Ian Rankin, author

Streetreads Library – a film by Ricky Kerr and Ben Glasgow

Watch the film on the Simon Community Scotland YouTube channel.

Streetreads Library, which opened in August 2021, is now open 6-days per week, offering a variety of practical, emotional and creative sessions for people experiencing homelessness. The safe place is providing over 100 supports per week, sometimes closer to 200.

Davie Miller, Streetreads co-ordinator, reflected; “Our biggest takeaway from the past three years is that a library can’t be just a library. Just like in any library in any town across the country. Streetreads has become far more than that—it has grown into an integral part of the community, serving as a hub for learning and connection. We started off by initially opening just one day a week and we have expanded to six days a week, offering a variety of drop-in sessions to support people experiencing homelessness in Edinburgh.”

Davie continued; “Since the inception of Streetreads, we have continually adjusted our strategy for the library. We’ve developed the space in collaboration with the people we support, listening to and adapting to their needs. Through conversations and constant evaluation, we’ve learned that people would benefit more from a multipurpose space that promotes education, community, and inclusiveness, while working within the principles of Harm Reduction and meeting people where they are at. In addition to our three Library drop-in days, we now host an Art Group, a Writing Group, a Book Club, a Mental Health Group, a Choir, a Digital Drop-in, a Women’s Group, and various “We See You” sessions in the space.”

Michelle, a visitor to Streetreads said; “Wellbeing Wednesday was great, I could access so much support, as well as just find a quiet corner to read and relax.” 

Colin, who visits the library regularly, said; “I first got a book from Streetreads when I was begging. Streetreads means a lot to me personally as it’s somewhere you can come when you feel alone. There’s always someone here to speak to.”

At present, Streetreads Library does not receive any external funding. Simon Community Scotland are keen to speak with businesses and individuals who would be interested in supporting the library, to enable them to deliver and develop this vital service.

To arrange a cuppa, chat and tour of the library, to discuss how you could help, please email hello@simonscotland.org

To make a donation, please visit – https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/streetreadslibrary

“Streetreads is a humble, but brilliant project. It’s helped me a lot… to meet new people, that boosted my confidence. Through books I have improved my knowledge of myself and my skills. Books helped me to focus on something positive during dark moments, inspiring me and giving me new ideas and a different vision of life.”

Dan, Streetreads guest

For further information, tours of our library, or interview requests please contact 

Murray Easton on 07729 390 558 or email murray.easton@simonscotland.org