Wigtown celebrates 25 years as Scotland's Book Town
The title is believed to have transformed the community
Wigtown is celebrating 25 years as Scotland’s National Book Town. Individuals involved in the town's book culture gathered to celebrate the milestone, reflecting on the initial bid to have the town awarded the status.
The small Galloway community, with a population of less than 1000, has seen a major regeneration across the town since it was first recognised as the Scottish Book Town in 1998. Wigtown's initial bid prevailed over six other contending locations fighting for Book Town status.
The towns plan for an annual book festival was integral in securing the title. The Wigtown Book Festival is now a flagship event for the community, attracting around 13,000 visitors and providing full-time jobs as well as volunteering opportunities.
Sandra McDowall, secretary of the Community Council which made the bid for Book Town status, said: “We spent months putting the bid together and it meant so much to win. The town was so far down at the time and winning gave us back our hope and our confidence. And over the years it’s all just kept on growing. It’s been an amazing journey.”
The town is home to 17 book-related businesses, including Scotland’s largest second hand book shop, as well as the countries only feminist book shop amongst other literature related ventures.
Scottish Book Town status has had a widespread positive impact
Wigtown’s Scottish Book Town status is credited with transforming the community, following economic trouble which saw several large businesses closed and jobs lost.
Anne Barclay, who was a Wigtown schoolgirl back in 1998 and is now the festival’s Operations Director, added: “When I was growing up I remember how many empty buildings there were. The loss of the creamery and distillery were an enormous blow.
“But despite the desolation of the early 90s, there has always been an incredible community spirit in Wigtown and it is that commitment and determination that has helped to raise the town from its knees over the past quarter century.
“We owe so much to those who had the foresight to campaign for Book Town status, and to those who have supported, developed and maintained it, helping to create a beautiful and vibrant place to live, work and visit. It is a privilege to be part of Wigtown’s story.”
This year's Wigtown Book Festival will begin on the 22nd September, and will offer a packed schedule of events for families, children, and young people.