Commenting Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“Scotland was one of the first countries to truly embrace universal literacy and the reforms of John Knox brought reading to the masses. Reading has something to offer everyone regardless of age or social status.
“Within Mid-Scotland and Fife, Perth and Kinross council took the revolutionary step earlier this year to offer an e-book lending service. Innovations like this will encourage younger readers to read more and make use of local libraries.
“Through this programme literature has the potential to reach and influence an even wider audience, subsequently making our libraries more relevant than ever.
“Hopefully, the inaugural Scottish Book Week can raise awareness of the benefits of reading in terms of education, personal enrichment, social mobility and pleasure. I believe the written word is one of mankind’s greatest achievements and hopefully this week can encourage more to take part in this simple activity.”