Monday 27 July 2026
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Arts /

Library to bring Edinburgh festival to literature lovers through live-streams

BOOK lovers in Shetland will get the chance to join in the Edinburgh International Book Festival celebrations next month – without leaving the isles.

Shetland Library will be live-streaming events throughout the festival for free, with audiences at the Lerwick library having the opportunity to hear from some of the biggest names in literature.

Photo: SIC

The programme includes internationally acclaimed novelist Elif Shafak, award-winning Irish author Colm Tóibín, broadcaster Lorraine Kelly, bestselling crime writer Chris Brookmyre, and many more.

Shetland Library said it was 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.

Reader services team leader Catherine Jeromson said that living in Shetland “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 Scottish Library and Information Council 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 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 31 July. Check the library’s social media channels for more information.

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