Elgin Library has earned a place among the very best in Britain, taking the top spot in Scotland and finishing second across the UK in a new study of public library reviews.

The much loved library in Cooper Park achieved an impressive average rating of 4.84 stars from 75 Google reviews, placing it ahead of hundreds of libraries across the country.

Only Macclesfield Library in Cheshire finished higher, with a rating of 4.85 stars, making Elgin the highest rated Scottish library included in the research.

The study examined 640 public libraries across the UK, using reviews left by the people who actually visit and use them.

Conducted in September 2026 on behalf of singlemothersgrants.org, the research considered each library’s full breakdown of Google star ratings.

Libraries with fewer than 50 reviews were excluded, along with university, school and private membership libraries.

For Elgin, the recognition reflects the value placed on a service that offers considerably more than shelves of books.

Public libraries provide opportunities to learn, access technology, discover new interests and enjoy welcoming spaces without the pressure of spending money.

For families, older residents, students and anyone looking for somewhere to read or study, that accessibility remains particularly important.

Moray Council’s Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee chair, Councillor Kathleen Robertson, welcomed the result.

She said:

“This is a fantastic achievement for Elgin Library and a real credit to the staff who work hard to make it such a welcoming and valued place for the community.

“Our libraries offer so much more than books.

“They provide access to information, technology, activities and support, as well as safe and welcoming spaces for people of all ages.

“To see Elgin Library rated so highly by the people who use it is particularly rewarding.

“I’d like to congratulate the whole team and thank everyone who continues to support and make use of our library services.”

Dawn Yates, an education assistance expert at singlemothersgrants.org, highlighted the particular importance of libraries for families watching their budgets.

She said:

“Libraries are one of the few places left where a family can spend a whole afternoon without spending a penny, and reviews like these show how much people value the ones that get it right.”

She also encouraged families to explore the free services and activities available at their local libraries, including computers, internet access and children’s activities.

Other libraries appearing in the top ten included Lordshill in Southampton, Acomb Explore in York, St Neots in Cambridgeshire and Lincoln Central Library.

The rankings are based on online customer reviews rather than an official inspection of library services, but they offer a valuable reflection of how visitors rate their experiences.

For the staff at Elgin Library, the recognition is a welcome acknowledgement of the everyday work that helps make their library such an important part of community life.

And for Moray, it is another reason to be proud of a local service that continues to make a difference.