CONCERNS over replacing school librarians with pupils have been raised at the Scottish Parliament.

Since we broke the story last month that library staff at three secondary schools in the area had been replaced by volunteers and pupils by Scottish Borders Council, there has been strong condemnation from parents, education groups and unions.

The pilot scheme at Galashiels Academy, Peebles High School and Kelso High was voted through by councillors at the start of the year.

And it was planned, if the changes proved successful, to implement the same approach at the region's six other secondary schools.

Last week local MSP Christine Grahame raised the issue in Holyrood.

In a written question, the SNP member for Midlothian South, Tweeddale and Lauderdale, wanted to know what the Scottish Government's 'position is on replacing school librarians with senior pupils or volunteers'?

Ms Grahame was told that a national strategy for school libraries was about to be published along with a £1 million investment over the next three years.

Depute leader John Swinney stated: "This Government is clear that a good quality school library service, supported by highly skilled library staff, can make a strong contribution to our ambition to raise attainment for all our young people.

"There is a role for pupils, parents, and volunteers to play in supporting school library services – indeed, pupils can gain a great deal from getting involved – but they will only add value as part of a managed appropriately staffed service."