Back in February 2025, I wrote an article highlighting something that surprised many people: only one of our local MSPs attended the “Save Local Libraries” bill debate.
That MSP was Paul Sweeney (Labour).
At a time when local libraries — including Cardonald Library — face uncertain futures, you would expect strong attendance and engagement from those elected to represent us. Instead, most were absent.
Now, with the 2026 Scottish Parliament election approaching, I thought it would be useful to take a second look — who is standing again, and who isn’t?
Because if this issue matters to you, it’s worth asking:
If they didn’t attend then — why would they act now?
Who Is Standing Again?
Here’s where things currently stand:
Standing Down
- Humza Yousaf (SNP) — Standing down
- Pam Duncan-Glancy (Labour) — Standing down (also currently suspended from the Labour Party)
These MSPs will not be seeking re-election in 2026.
Running for 2026
These MSPs are standing again in 2026:
- Patrick Harvie (Greens) — Running for 2026
- Anas Sarwar (Labour) — Running for 2026
- Annie Wells (Conservative) — Running for 2026
- Sandesh Gulhane (Conservative) — Running for 2026
- Pauline McNeill (Labour) — Running for 2026
And finally:
- Paul Sweeney (Labour) — The ONLY MSP who attended the Save Local Libraries Bill — Running for 2026
Make an Informed Choice
This post isn’t about telling anyone how to vote.
It’s simply about providing information so you can make an informed decision — especially if the future of local libraries is important to you.
Because ultimately, representation is about showing up.
And in February 2025, only one MSP did.