US U-turn over Scottish authors

The Library of Congress had been criticised over its decision

One of the world's largest libraries has reversed a controversial decision to reclassify Scots authors as English.

Writers, politicians and academics in Scotland reacted angrily when the Library of Congress in the US first made the proposal.

The move would have seen classic novels like "The Thirty Nine Steps" by the Scottish author John Buchan, listed as an English adventure story.

Culture Minister Linda Fabiani welcomed the U-turn.

"I am delighted that the Library of Congress has listened to our concerns and recognised the distinctive nature of Scottish literature," she said.

'Distinctive nature'

"In fact I recently discussed this with Congressman McIntyre of the Friends of Scotland Caucus to make our position clear.

"I am sure this will help those exploring the wealth and wonders of Scottish literature while properly acknowledging our nation's great contribution over the years and the success of modern day writers."

The British Library also said it supported the decision to return to classifying Scottish literature as a separate category.

Ronald Milne, its director of scholarship and collections, said that the move reflected "Scotland's long literary tradition and the significance of its literary canon".

Glasgow's Poet Laureate Liz Lochhead, had accused the Library of Congress of cultural imperialism, while best-selling crime writer Ian Rankin, from Edinburgh, said the original move failed to recognise the cultural differences that existed between UK countries.