Streetreads
Streetreads
Far more than a library: a community, a shared sense of belonging, a safe space.
Streetreads Library
The idea for Streetreads came about when a woman called Rachel Cowan began handing out books to people experiencing homelessness in Edinburgh. As the demand for this service grew, Rachel approached Simon Community Scotland to ask if we could help establish a Streetreads Library.
The library opened in August 2021 and we’re delighted with the continuing evolution of Streetreads, developing Rachel’s work into the Streetreads Library in the basement of the City of Edinburgh Methodist Church, in Nicolson Square. This space has provided many with an opportunity to escape from the often challenging realities they face.
Community and partnership
Thanks to the incredible support from the community and partnerships with several Edinburgh bookshops, Streetreads boasts a wonderful and up-to-date selection of books. People within the homeless community in Edinburgh can visit the library and take out books without needing to show ID or return the books. If we don’t have what someone is looking for, we can order specific books for them, and our volunteers are always available to make recommendations or share their perspectives. We’re delighted that people can access this safe, welcoming space to read, relax, and benefit from a wide range of support.
So much more than a library
Our biggest takeaway from the past three years is that a library can’t be just a library. 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. Initially open just one day a week, the library has now expanded to six days a week, offering a variety of drop-in sessions to support this vulnerable community.
“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
A growing, evolving space
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.
“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
We need your help
At present, Streetreads Library does not receive any external funding. We want to continue delivering and expanding this service, but we need your help. If you’re able to support us, please visit our JustGiving page.
