Gaelic Wikipedia in preparation through National Library of Scotland collaboration

The ancient Gaelic language of Scotland is set to reach new audiences thank to a unique collaboration between Wikipedia and the National Library of Scotland.

A Gaelic speaker is currently being recruited to work with groups all across Scotland to develop Uicipeid, the Gaelic Wikipedia. The search for the Gaelic Wikipedian begins this week as the national Mòd – the annual celebration of Gaelic culture - opens in Stornoway.  The role will be to support Gaels to write and translate content for Uicipeid. It is hoped the initiative will encourage more people to practise and use their language skills and share their knowledge of Gaelic culture, heritage and community. 

The Wikipedian will work with the National Library, Wikimedia UK and Gaelic agencies and organisations to identify groups to engage with. These will include young people between the ages of 16 and 25, community groups and those active in areas such as music, local history, literature etc.

Lucy Crompton-Reid, Chief Executive of Wikimedia UK, said: 'As the national chapter for the global Wikimedia movement we believe that open access to knowledge is a fundamental right, and a driver for social and economic development. We are delighted to be working with the National Library of Scotland on this important project, which will see the Gaelic Wikipedia becoming an increasingly important source of information created by and for Gaelic speakers, with better online coverage of Scottish Gaelic history, culture and heritage." 

The National Library has been working hard in recent years to digitise Gaelic material including books, papers and historic documents and make them available online. These help to demonstrate the key role played by Gaelic in Scottish history and culture. 

Further information on the Wikimedia role and an application form is available online at the NLS website.