Stars sing praises of Fife woman named UK’s best arts champion

Pauline, who is service development supervisor at St Andrews Library, was chosen by judges in the National Campaign for the Arts’ Hearts for the Arts Awards 2020 for sharing her love of reading and books in her community, especially among young people and children.

The awards recognise the unsung local heroes of community arts.

The high-profile judging panel was full of praise for Pauline, who is from Cupar.

Suzie Dent, best known as host of Countdown’s Dictionary Corner, said: “It would be hard to find someone more passionate about libraries and literacy, and more enthusiastic about spreading that passion, than Pauline.”

Gary Kemp, actor, musician, songwriter and founder member of Spandau Ballet, said: “Pauline is a powerful promoter of literacy and book culture among the young, promoting libraries as well as giving young parents an inspiring place to take their children to encourage their learning and love of words.”

That Pauline’s standout qualities have been recognised is no surprise to her colleagues and friends – she was named Ladybank’s Citizen of the Year in 2019 after being nominated by local schoolchildren.

With 30 schools and seven libraries in her remit, Pauline is a well-known and much-loved presence within North East Fife and her active promotion of libraries and literacy – from babies through to teenagers – has created a much-valued reading ethos.

“Pauline is an inspiration to all of us,” said June Souter, ONFife Libraries’ Service Development manager. “She modestly says she’s just doing her job but the passion and commitment she brings to her work has built fantastic relationships with her schools, families and generations of children.

“Her success is reflected in the work that the whole team delivers across Fife.”

ONFife was the only Scottish organisation to be nominated in the awards.