THE NATIONAL Library of Scotland has become a partner in a new UK wide network of institutions.

The Living Knowledge Network of 24 national and public libraries across the UK will "combine local expertise and national organising power to share knowledge, services and activities."

The British Library, the National Library of Wales and city libraries in Glasgow, Belfast, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, Sheffield and Newcastle are partners in the project. The network is being funded by the British Library and the Arts Council of England for a two year pilot period.

Dr John Scally, National Librarian at the National Library of Scotland said: “This new network will share knowledge and expertise and help us deliver even better services for all our users. We look forward to working with libraries from across the UK on shared goals, collectively demonstrating the unique role that libraries have to play in improving the lives of individuals and communities.”

nls.uk

YOUNG Northern Irish folk group Connla, pictured, open a Scottish tour in the Byre Theatre, St Andrews tomorrow. The five musicians met as students at Ulster University and quickly gained press and public attention through their first EP release. They’ve since won the Best New Group title in the Live Ireland awards and released their first full-length CD, River Waiting, in July to enthusiastic reviews and endorsements from folk music champions including former Folk on 2 presenter Mike Harding. They follow their St Andrews concert with appearances at Coldingham Village Hall on Sunday; Traverse Theatre Bar, Edinburgh (Monday 3); Performing Arts Centre, Kilbarchan (Tuesday 4); Acoustic Music Club, Kirkcaldy (Thursday 6); Eastgate Theatre, Peebles (Friday 7); and Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine (Sunday 9).

connlamusic.com

FIFE blues venue Watts of Cupar has announced its programme of monthly concerts for the autumn. Perthshire-based singer-guitarist Lins Honeyman brings his band to the club on Friday, October 7 and the internationally regarded one-man blues band Mike Whellans is the guest on November 1. Young Artist of the Year nominee at the British Blues Awards, Reece Hillis and singer-guitarist Lyndon Anderson’s band make up a double bill on December 2. Doors open for all concerts at 8:00pm. www.wattsofcupar.com

AWARD-winning Canadian soul-blues singer-guitarist Matt Andersen returns to Glasgow on Friday, October 14 when he appears at Oran Mor in Great Western Road. Having built a huge following in Canada, where he regularly sells out major theatres, Andersen won the coveted Best Solo Performer title at the Memphis Blues Challenge in 2010 and has gone on to tour the world, adding a European Blues Award and numerous Maple Blues Awards. His latest album, Honest Man, was recorded in New York with Joss Stone and Amy Winehouse producer Commissioner Gordon and has earned glowing reviews on both sides of the Atlantic.

stubbyfingers.ca