The area's libraries have been shortlisted for a national award thanks to a creative project aimed at young people.

The New Pathways project, led by West Dunbartonshire Council’s libraries team, has been nominated for a Scottish Library & Information Council (SLIC) Project Excellence Award.

As part of the scheme, pupils from Clydebank High and Our Lady and St Patrick’s High were involved in workshops led by professionals delivering creative and fun activities in literacy, technology and creative arts.

These were directed at young learners who were unable to fully engage during the pandemic lockdowns and faced individual challenges with the return to physical schooling.

Councillor Daniel Lennie, Convener of Corporate Services couldn't hide his joy at the library nod.

He said: “This is fantastic news and great recognition for the project and the team behind it.

"The New Pathways project shows how valuable libraries can be to our communities and how they can play an important role in helping to change young lives.”

The attendance of more than half the young people who took part in the project increased significantly to 100% and many of the pupils attended all the workshops.

The project expanded to include school leavers with young people attending sessions which had a stronger focus on alternative career paths and choices.

Councillor Michelle McGinty added: “Well done to our libraries team for developing such a worthy project and delivering engaging and creative learning for our young people.

"The courses also helped to reduce the attainment gap by offering creative and fun learning which helped pupils reengage with their learning and promoted positive mental health and wellbeing.