A NEW permanent artwork was revealed at Musselburgh Library last Tuesday as part of Book Week Scotland 2014.

‘Site of Action’ was created by artist Emma Ewan and takes the form of a concrete lectern surrounded by artificial grass, which will sit outside the library.

It is hoped that the artwork will encourage residents to visit their library and begin or continue their reading journey.

Emma said: “Site of Action is inspired by the everyday sculptural objects that are found at the centre of formal gardens or public spaces – a sundial, a fountain or a classical sculpture.

“I hope it will be a gravitational point, a place for thinking, meeting, learning and communicating.” The artwork was inspired by Dear Library, a poem written by best-selling Scottish author and playwright Jackie Kay as part of Book Week Scotland. Dear Library highlights the role that libraries can play at every stage of an individual’s life.

Emma was given one verse of the poem to inspire her artwork, written from the perspective of someone reminiscing about the time they spent in their local library as a child.

Councillor Tim Day, East Lothian Council’s community wellbeing spokesperson, said: “We were delighted to have been chosen to take part in the Artworks for Libraries project. It’s been fascinating to see how Emma has adapted her ideas to come up with the wonderful concept that is Site of Action.

“The launch event has provided an excellent opportunity to engage all generations in a conversation around libraries and reading. I am looking forward to seeing how the local community embraces the space and the lectern itself.” The Musselburgh artwork is one of five being unveiled around the country for Book Week Scotland.

Marc Lambert, director of Scottish Book Trust, the organisation delivering Book Week Scotland, said: “These artworks were commissioned to raise awareness of the important role that libraries play in local communities, providing an invaluable service that can often change the direction of a library user’s life.”