EAST Lothian Council library service’s “impressive and imaginative response” to the coronavirus pandemic has found it in the running for a national award.

The Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC) awards take place next month, with the East Lothian Council team one of only six public library bodies in the running for the national accolade.

The award is designed to celebrate the outstanding efforts of librarians and library staff to improve customers’ service experience.

Sharon Saunders, head of communities and partnerships at the council, was hopeful of success at the awards.

She said: “During lockdown, our staff provided invaluable support helping individuals and families shielding and, as restrictions began to ease, they were able to re-introduce some of the expected library services in a safe and accessible way.

“This is the first year of this award and we are delighted to be in the final six from 19 submitted entries.”

The SLIC judging panel described the library service as “a truly stimulating nomination”.

It said: “East Lothian Council library services has been shortlisted for an impressive and imaginative response to community needs during lockdown.”

The winner will receive a trophy and £5,000 for its library service.