Simpson Library (Bathgate)

Customer Notice: All libraries will be closed on Monday 5th of May for the public holiday. We apologise for any inconvenience caused. 

The Simpson Library is located inside The Jim Walker Partnership Centre and offers a wide range of library and information services to people of all ages living or working in West Lothian.

New memberships: Details on how to become West Lothian library member can be found on our library membership webpage

Services Available in The Simpson Library 

• Books for children, young people and adults
• Talking books
• Large Print books
• Quick reads - quick read books are designed for fast, engaging reading, typically featuring shorter chapters, simpler language, and concise plots.
• High Low books - high interest books for children, with simpler, easier-to-understand language and accessible sentence structures.
• Book Group
• Storytimes
• Bookbug sessions
• Boardmaker software - Boardmaker is a versatile software program primarily designed for creating visual supports, including symbols, communication boards, and learning materials, specifically for people with Additional Support Needs, Autism or Speech and Language difficulties. These can be created and then printed within the library. Prices are displayed on the following document: Library printing charges (PDF, 137 KB)(opens new window)  Please note Colour and Black and White printing is available at The Simpson Library and we are unable to accept card payments.
• High Visibility keyboard - a large key keyboard is designed with oversized, easily distinguishable keys to enhance accessibility and improve typing comfort
• Free replacement hearing aid batteries - please bring along your hearing aid booklet so your batteries can be recorded.
• Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service
• 11 PCs providing free computer access - PC access should be booked in advance by telephoning the library online using the following link: My PC Booking System (opens new window)
• Photocopying and printing services are available in the library. Prices are displayed on the following document: Library printing charges (PDF, 137 KB)(opens new window)  Please note Colour and Black and White printing is available at The Simpson Library and we are unable to accept card payments.

Accessibility

• Three disabled parking bays in centre car park
• Local bus stop directly outside centre
• Automatic doors to access the centre

Inclusivity for Everyone

At West Lothian Libraries, we are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone, regardless of background, ability, or identity, feels welcome and valued. We strive to provide accessible services, diverse resources, and supportive spaces that empower all individuals to engage with our library services. To ensure our customers know what our libraries look like, how they can get support and how our libraries are laid out, we have developed our very own Social Stories and Colour Coded Layout Plans and are currently in the process of implementing Boardmaker Signage which will be displayed in each library.  

What is a Social Story?

A social story is a simple, structured narrative designed to help individuals, particularly those with autism or other additional support needs, understand and navigate social situations. It uses clear language and visual cues to explain expectations, behaviours, and appropriate responses in a way that makes social interactions easier to understand and more predictable. Social stories help build confidence and improve social skills by providing a visual and written guide to handling various scenarios. To find The Simpson Library's Social Story, click here The Simpson Library Social Story (PDF, 1 MB)(opens new window)

What is a Colour Coded Layout Plan?

A colour-coded layout plan is a visual map that uses different colours to represent and organize various areas, features, or functions within a space. This helps to make the layout easily understandable, guiding individuals to their desired area or understanding the purpose of different sections within the library. The use of colour enhances accessibility by providing a clear, intuitive way to navigate the environment, especially for people with additional support needs or those who may benefit from visual cues. To find The Simpson Library's Colour Coded Layout Plan, click here The Simpson Library Colour Coded Layout Plan (PDF, 135 KB)(opens new window)