The following paper is based on my master's degree thesis written as a graduate student at the University of Glasgow from 2014-2015 titled, "Preserving the Social Cohesiveness and Lifelong Educational Mission of Public Libraries in Times of Austerity: Assessing the Potential of the Scottish National Library Strategy through the Capabilities Approach." The purpose of my research is to understand how austerity policies have weakened and compromised the public library service in Scotland. In June 2015, the first Scottish national library strategy for public libraries was issued. Entitled, Ambition & Opportunity: A Strategy for Public Libraries in Scotland 2015-2020, was released as a policy response to ongoing austerity cuts in public services from the UK government. My research is a literature-based analysis of the new strategy using Martha Nussbaum's interpretation of the Capabilities Approach as a theoretical framework in which to examine and evaluate the policy's strategic aims and recommendations. In carrying out my research, I identified those central capabilities which I thought best corresponded to each of the strategic aims outlined in the Scottish national library strategy. Also, I used various examples of public library programs and initiatives (in Scotland and elsewhere) to help illustrate the links between the strategic aims and central capabilities. Throughout my analysis, I define public libraries as a vital community and social service that provides lifelong learning opportunities, social and community cohesion, adult and family literacy, and other innumerable benefits to the communities they serve. [For the full proceedings, see ED581791.]