Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

National Library of Scotland

The National Library of Scotland is Scotland's national reference library and one of six libraries in the and , holding over 61 million print and digital items that document the country's knowledge, history, and culture. Established by an in 1925, it traces its origins to the Advocates Library, founded in 1682 by the Faculty of Advocates and opened to the public in 1689 as a comprehensive collection of Scottish and international works. Under the Copyright Act of 1710, the library has received a copy of every published in , enabling its collections to grow by approximately 5,000 items weekly through , purchases, donations, and partnerships. These collections encompass and journals, newspapers and magazines, archives and manuscripts, maps and atlases, music and sound recordings, films and moving images, artwork, , and government publications, spanning from medieval manuscripts to contemporary digital resources. Funded by the and answerable to the since the , the library operates as a free public resource with 150 miles of shelving across four sites, promoting access to its holdings for research, education, and cultural enrichment. Its main building is located at George IV Bridge in 's Old Town, housing reading rooms, exhibitions, events, a café, and a shop, while additional facilities include the Maps Reading Room at Causewayside in for accessing over 400,000 historic maps and the Moving Image at Kelvin Hall in for films and workshops. The library's mission is to preserve Scotland's stories, enriching the present and inspiring the future through digitized galleries, online catalogues, and public programs. In 2025, it marked its centenary with initiatives such as the Love Libraries campaign and the Dear Library exhibition, highlighting its enduring role in national heritage.

History

Origins and founding

The origins of the National Library of Scotland lie in the Library of the Faculty of Advocates, established in 1682 as a private collection for members of Scotland's . Founded by , then , the library was endowed with his extensive personal holdings of books and manuscripts, initially focusing on legal texts but soon expanding to broader scholarly works. Formally opened in 1689, it served as a vital resource for advocates, with early acquisitions including donations from prominent Scots and purchases that laid the groundwork for a national repository. In 1710, the (Copyright Act 1710) granted the Advocates Library privileges, requiring publishers to provide a copy of every new book printed in . This right facilitated key acquisitions, such as comprehensive deposits of Scottish-authored works, including literature, history, and scientific texts from the emerging . Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the library played an essential role in preserving Scotland's national literature and cultural output, functioning as the country's public reference library despite its private origins and amassing approximately 750,000 volumes by 1925. The of Scotland was formally founded through the National Library of Scotland Act 1925, which transferred ownership of the Advocates Library's non-legal collections—approximately 750,000 printed items and manuscripts—to the nation. This legislation designated the institution as Scotland's principal library, ensuring continued receipt of publications while maintaining the Faculty's control over its law books. William Kirk Dickson, who had served as Keeper of the Advocates Library since 1906, became the first (or Keeper) of the National Library, leading its initial operations from 1925 until 1931.

Institutional development

Following the establishment of the National Library of Scotland by the National Library of Scotland Act 1925, which transformed the Advocates' Library into a national institution, the collections were initially housed at Parliament House in . Construction of a dedicated building at began in 1937 to accommodate the growing collections and provide public access, but work was halted during , with valuable items evacuated to secure locations. The building was completed postwar and officially opened to the public by Queen Elizabeth II on 4 July 1956, marking the library's first purpose-built facility and enabling expanded services for researchers and visitors. As one of six legal deposit libraries in the , the National Library received copies of all printed publications under UK copyright from 1925 onward, including , periodicals, maps, and newspapers, which fueled substantial collection growth throughout the 20th century. This privilege, inherited from the Advocates' Library's deposit status since , allowed the institution to systematically build comprehensive holdings of Scottish and printed materials, with maps and periodicals forming key components of the expanding general and specialist collections. During the and , the library intensified acquisition efforts to strengthen its holdings in Scottish history, , and culture, establishing specialized departments to manage diverse formats. A notable development was the founding of the Scottish Film Archive in 1976, which preserved Scotland's moving image heritage dating back to 1895 and supported research into early and visual records. These initiatives reflected a broader organizational shift toward thematic curation and public engagement, with departments for maps, , and manuscripts formalized to handle the influx of items and targeted purchases. Leadership during this era included key appointments among the library's keepers, who oversaw departmental operations and collection strategies. Robert Donaldson, appointed Keeper of Printed Books in 1975, played a pivotal role in managing the British Antiquarian Division until his retirement in 1989, emphasizing preservation of rare printed works and fostering international bibliographic collaborations. In the 1980s, the library advanced its capabilities to protect its expanding collections from deterioration. A three-storey extension to the building, completed in the mid-1980s, provided dedicated spaces for cataloguing, , and reprographics, enhancing long-term preservation efforts. This was supported by the appointment of a full-time in August 1982, who brought expertise from prior roles in university library binding and to address the needs of aging printed and materials.

Modern expansions and centenary

In 2020, the National Library of Scotland launched its "Reaching People: Library 2020-2025," a designed to enhance by creating welcoming physical and online spaces, promote through ethical use of technologies like and sustainable digital infrastructure, and boost public engagement via diverse exhibitions, outreach programs, and partnerships across . The builds on prior successes to position the library as a vital by its 2025 centenary, emphasizing connections with multiple audiences and the enrichment of lives through shared collections and services. To commemorate the centenary of its establishment by in , the library initiated a year-long program on , 2025, beginning with the "Curtain Raiser" event at the site in , where National Librarian hosted authors Damian Barr and in conversation. Key initiatives included the Love Libraries campaign, launched on February 14, 2025, to celebrate libraries' roles in communities and encourage public membership, and the (June 20, 2025–April 18, 2026), a collaborative display inspired by Jackie Kay's poem, exploring libraries' cultural impact but facing over alleged of content following complaints from staff, prompting an internal investigation in August 2025. A centerpiece of the celebrations is the "Outwith: National Library around " touring , which launched on September 13, 2025, at Art Gallery with a display of John Forbes' 1682 'Songs and Fancies,' the first printed book of secular Scottish music; the tour continues to Museum (January 23 to April 26, 2026) featuring ' last letter, and Museum and Archives ( to June 20, 2026) with items related to poet . This collaborative initiative aims to bring the library's treasures to communities nationwide through loans, events, and activities, fostering local resonance and broader public access. Complementing these efforts, the library relaunched its website in July 2025 as part of its centenary brand refresh, featuring a redesigned with improved , responsive , and enhanced discoverability to better engage users with its collections and resources. Recent acquisitions underscore the library's commitment to contemporary documentation, including the papers of Beth Junor (Accession 13660), a Scottish activist and writer who documented the Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp's non-violent resistance against nuclear missiles from 1982 to 2005; this archive, acquired in 2015, preserves photographs, correspondence, and publications highlighting feminist protests and offers insights into decades of peace activism. Ongoing initiatives, aligned with the strategy's priorities, include investments in eco-friendly infrastructure and collaborations, while outreach expands through nationwide partnerships to support diverse communities and combat . In November 2025, the library announced a new strategy extending these focuses, with heightened emphasis on youth engagement and .

Buildings and facilities

George IV Bridge site

The George IV Bridge site in serves as the headquarters of the National Library of Scotland, functioning as its primary facility for public access, administration, and exhibitions. Established following the library's founding in 1925 through the transfer of the Advocates Library's collections, the site was selected in to provide a dedicated modern space for Scotland's national collections. Construction of the building at 57 began in to designs by Scottish architect Reginald Fairlie, who envisioned a classical-modern structure blending traditional stonework with contemporary elements. Work was halted by the Second World War, resuming afterward under architect A.R. Conlon, with completion in 1956; officially opened the facility that year, marking it as a landmark for preserving Scotland's literary and historical treasures. The nine-storey edifice rises prominently from the elevated bridge, featuring robust sandstone facades, stylised bas-relief panels, and seven monumental stone figures sculpted by Hew Lorimer symbolising disciplines such as , , and science. Key interior features support both scholarly and public engagement, including the spacious General Reading Room equipped for quiet study and research, adjacent Special Collections Reading Room for handling rare materials, and versatile temporary exhibition galleries that rotate displays on . Public amenities encompass a café offering refreshments and workspaces with , a stocking books and souvenirs, and communal areas like the collaborative Discovery Room. The centrepiece is the Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition, which presents rotating selections of iconic items such as medieval manuscripts and early printed works to illustrate the nation's cultural story. Core administrative offices oversee library operations from this location, ensuring coordination of nationwide services. In 2006, MLA Architects led a of the entrance foyer, opening up enclosed arches to create brighter public spaces, integrate the café more seamlessly, and expand exhibition areas for better visitor flow. Ongoing enhancements prioritise , with features like wide lifts (872mm), Blue Badge parking nearby, unisex accessible toilets, and a flexible Contemplation Space for privacy needs such as or . The site accommodates substantial public use, attracting over 119,000 exhibition visitors in 2023/24 alone alongside tens of thousands of reading room users annually. It plays a central role in the library's 2025 centenary celebrations, hosting displays, audio tours, and events tracing a century of institutional growth.

Additional locations

The National Library of Scotland maintains several satellite facilities beyond its primary site in , enabling specialized access to collections and supporting preservation efforts across . The Causewayside Building, located at 33 Salisbury Place in , serves as a key annexe for -related and activities. Opened in two phases—initially in 1989 and expanded in 1995—it houses the Maps Reading Room, where visitors can access over 2 million by appointment with free library membership, including historic items like the first printed of from around 1560. The facility also includes studios dedicated to preserving rare materials, such as parchments and manuscripts, through specialized workshops and behind-the-scenes operations. This site enhances public engagement by providing focused spaces that complement the main building's broader offerings, with visits supporting in-depth study of cartographic resources. In , the Kelvin Hall partnership site, established in 2016 following a major refurbishment, hosts the Moving and functions as a hub for collections. Located at 1445 Argyle Street, it offers public screenings, workshops, and events centered on over 46,000 film and sound items documenting Scottish , while providing access to archives including maps and . Open Tuesday to Saturday with varying hours, the venue emphasizes community involvement through free entry to exhibitions and interactive sessions, making niche collections more accessible outside Edinburgh. These additional locations play a vital role in decentralizing the Library's services, particularly during the 2025 centenary celebrations marking 100 years since its founding. Initiatives like the "National Library Live" tour feature pop-up events, taster talks, family activities, and loaned exhibitions across —for instance, a September 2025 display at Art Gallery showcasing early editions—extending public access to collections and fostering nationwide participation in the Library's heritage preservation. The Causewayside and Kelvin Hall sites also contribute to offsite storage solutions, accommodating growing collections of books, maps, and media to ensure long-term preservation while supporting distributed research needs.

Governance and staff

Legal status and administration

The National Library of Scotland operates as a (NDPB) sponsored by the , functioning as a registered Scottish charity (No. SC011086) with accountability to the . It was established under the National Library of Scotland Act 1925, which granted it rights to receive copies of all publications, a privilege that was expanded to include non-print works such as digital publications through amendments in the National Library of Scotland Act 2012 and the Legal Deposit Libraries (Non-Print Works) Regulations 2013, effective from March 2013. These legislative frameworks also mandate the library's role in the national preservation of Scotland's intellectual heritage, ensuring long-term access to cultural and historical materials as a key national collection. Governance is provided by a Board of up to 11 members, including a , appointed by the Scottish Ministers in accordance with the 2012 Act to oversee strategic direction, , and compliance with statutory duties. The Board operates under a approved by the Standards Commission for Scotland and reports annually to the for Constitution, External Affairs and , aligning its activities with the 's priorities for culture and . Primary funding comes from the through , totaling approximately £16 million for operational costs in the 2024/25 financial year, supplemented by income from donations, investments, and services. Administratively, the library is led by the National Librarian and Chief Executive, , who serves as the Accountable Officer responsible for day-to-day operations and implementation of the Board's strategy. The organizational structure includes dedicated departments for collections management (encompassing cataloguing, preservation, and ), digital services and transformation, and public engagement (covering access, research support, and outreach programs), ensuring coordinated delivery of preservation, access, and innovation mandates. This framework supports the library's statutory functions as outlined in the 2012 Act, promoting it as a vital resource for study, research, and bibliographic services focused on .

Notable personnel

The inaugural Keeper of the National Library of Scotland was William Kirk Dickson, who held the position from 1925 to 1931 following the institution's establishment by . Previously serving as Keeper of the Advocates Library, Dickson played a pivotal role in transitioning the collection to its national mandate, emphasizing preservation and public access during the library's formative years. In the mid-20th century, figures like James Robert Seaton contributed substantially as Principal Keeper, spending much of his career from the 1940s onward enhancing cataloguing and reader services at the library. Seaton's dedication to scholarly support made him a welcoming presence for researchers, fostering the institution's reputation as a key resource for Scottish studies. During the 1970s and 1980s, Edward Frederick Denis Roberts served as from 1970 to 1990, driving major acquisitions that bolstered the library's holdings in manuscripts and historical documents. Roberts, a scholar of palaeontology and medieval , also advanced administrative reforms to accommodate growing public engagement. The marked the rise of digital initiatives under subsequent leadership, with staff like those in the emerging team pioneering online cataloguing and early efforts to broaden access beyond physical visits. This period laid foundational work for the library's virtual resources, reflecting a shift toward technological integration in operations. In contemporary times, has served as National Librarian and Chief Executive since 2021, the first woman in the role, with a focus on community outreach, inclusivity, and expanding digital accessibility to engage diverse audiences across . Shah's leadership has emphasized and cultural connections, enhancing the library's role in public education and heritage preservation. Archivists such as Dan Sheehy and Colin McIlroy, Curators at the , contribute to curating exhibitions and programs drawing on manuscript collections to support public events and scholarly discourse. also play key roles in administering research fellowships, including the Graham Brown Research Fellowship established in 2018, which supports scholars investigating history through the library's specialized collections; this initiative underscores employee involvement in facilitating academic partnerships and interdisciplinary studies.

General collections

Printed books and official publications

The National Library of Scotland maintains one of the world's largest collections of printed materials, encompassing approximately 15 million printed books acquired through , purchases, donations, and exchanges. As a library under legislation dating from 1710, it receives a copy of every publication produced in the and , ensuring comprehensive coverage of books, journals, magazines, and newspapers from that period onward. This system, briefly rooted in early statutory requirements for depositing works with designated institutions, has enabled the library to build a vast repository that spans centuries and supports scholarly research across disciplines. The library's holdings of official publications form a cornerstone of its printed collections, providing authoritative records of governmental activities. These include full runs of the UK Parliament's from 1803, documenting debates and proceedings, as well as complete records of the from its re-establishment in 1999. Additionally, the collection features extensive US Congressional documents, acquired through international exchanges and reflecting the library's role in preserving global legislative history. Approximately 6,000 new items arrive weekly via , many of which are official serials and reports that offer insights into policy, law, and administration. Among its rare printed books, the library holds significant early Scottish imprints from the , including pioneering works from Scotland's first printing presses established in the early 1500s. These treasures, such as first editions from printers like Walter Chepman and Andrew Myllar, capture the dawn of Scottish and . Complementing these are complete sets of Edinburgh newspapers, which trace the city's journalistic history from the and provide primary sources for social and political events. Preservation efforts have been crucial for safeguarding these deteriorating printed collections, particularly through 20th-century microfilming projects that captured fragile newspapers and other at-risk materials on durable . Stored across 150 miles of shelving in climate-controlled facilities, the printed holdings are organized by size and publication date, with ongoing digitization initiatives making select items accessible online while protecting originals from wear.

Manuscripts and archives

The National Library of Scotland maintains an extensive collection of over seven million items, comprising unpublished personal papers, institutional records, and archival materials that provide unique insights into historical, literary, and administrative developments. These holdings emphasize non-commercial documents, distinguishing them from printed publications, and support research across diverse fields through their depth and specificity. Key collections include the John Murray Archive, which preserves correspondence and papers related to British publishing from 1768 to the 1920s, offering a comprehensive record of literary interactions and business practices over more than 150 years. The India Papers document aspects of colonial administration in British India during the 18th and 19th centuries, including administrative correspondence and records useful for tracing family histories and official activities. Complementing these are the Minto Papers, consisting of correspondence and documents from the family of Minto, which detail diplomatic and political engagements spanning several generations. Additionally, the Archive, acquired in the 2010s following the author's death, houses personal and literary papers, including drafts of writings that capture mid-20th-century experiences. The papers of , Lord Hope of Craighead, form a significant archive on Scottish legal history, encompassing professional documents, opinions, and related materials from his career as a senior judge. The archive of Beth Junor related to the captures feminist protest activities against nuclear armament in the 1980s, including organizational papers, diaries, and protest materials that highlight grassroots activism. The manuscript collections have expanded notably through bequests and donations, particularly in the 20th and 21st centuries, reflecting ongoing efforts to document contemporary social movements. For instance, the archive of Junor related to the captures feminist protest activities against nuclear armament in the , including organizational papers, diaries, and protest materials that highlight grassroots activism. Such additions have enriched the holdings with diverse personal and activist perspectives. Cataloging of these archives adheres to international standards, including ISAD(G) for general archival description, ensuring structured access to finding aids and detailed records via the library's online catalogue. This approach facilitates precise retrieval and scholarly use of the materials, with descriptions covering provenance, content, and contextual notes for each collection.

Specialized collections

Maps and cartography

The National Library of Scotland houses an extensive cartographic collection comprising approximately two million items, including over 1.5 million printed sheet maps, 15,000 atlases, and 100,000 maps on microfilm, alongside growing volumes of digital mapping and reference materials such as gazetteers and periodicals. This collection encompasses maps and charts from the 16th century onward, with a particular emphasis on Scotland and the British Isles, but extending to global coverage. Key holdings include the Bartholomew Archive, which preserves the administrative, artistic, and cartographic records of the Edinburgh-based firm John Bartholomew & Son Ltd, renowned for its commercial map production from the 19th to the late 20th centuries, featuring detailed atlases, road maps, and topographic surveys. Other significant resources are the Board of Ordnance collection, documenting 18th-century military surveys of Scotland, such as the Roy Military Survey (1747-1755), which provided essential strategic mapping for government troops, including town plans, road networks, and fortifications. Complementing these is the Stevenson collection, comprising over 600 items from the civil engineering firm founded by Robert Stevenson, featuring lighthouse engineering maps, site surveys, and technical plans from the 19th and early 20th centuries that illustrate coastal infrastructure development. The library's maps offer comprehensive coverage of Scotland's , spanning from medieval depictions to modern editions, enabling researchers to trace landscape evolution, urban expansion, and environmental changes over centuries. Particular strengths lie in regional county maps, estate plans, and series like the Ordnance Survey's six-inch and 25-inch scales (1840s-1950s), which detail fields, buildings, roads, and waterways with high precision. More than 200,000 items have been digitally scanned and made accessible through the library's Maps portal, a free online resource providing high-resolution, georeferenced images that support overlay comparisons with contemporary mapping for . Stored partly at the Causewayside facility, these digitized holdings facilitate remote access while preserving originals for on-site consultation. In research applications, the collection is invaluable for house and building history studies, offering chronological guides to track property development through sequential cartographic evidence. For instance, the Great Reform Act plans of provide early detailed urban mappings of 75 Scottish towns, illustrating boundaries, streets, and structures to support electoral reforms, while subsequent town plans from the (1840s-1940s) and Goad fire insurance maps (1880s onward) reveal granular changes in and . These resources aid interdisciplinary inquiries into , , and by correlating visual data with textual records. The library actively promotes its cartographic holdings through public engagement, such as a November 2025 talk by curator Paula Williams titled "Putting on the map," providing an illustrated overview of more than 400 years of maps depicting and beyond.

The National Library of Scotland maintains significant collections related to the , encompassing materials and moving images that document Scotland's cultural and artistic heritage. These holdings include scripts, production artifacts, playbills, and audiovisual records, emphasizing both historical and contemporary contributions to Scottish , , and performance. The library's theatre collections feature a range of materials from the 18th and 19th centuries, such as playbills and prompt books that provide insights into early Scottish stage practices. For instance, the Scottish Theatre Programmes Database includes digitized playbills and posters from Edinburgh theatres dating to the late 19th century, part of the Weir Collection, which captures performances at venues like the Royal Lyceum Theatre. In the 20th and 21st centuries, the collections extend to modern production elements, including the original stage set for John McGrath's 1973 play The Cheviot, the Stag, and the Black, Black Oil, designed by John Byrne as a giant pop-up book with five backdrops. This artifact, preserved as part of the library's manuscripts, highlights innovative scenic design in Scottish political theatre. Complementing these are extensive prompt books and scripts from notable Scottish venues, such as 83 plays performed at the Gateway Theatre in during the mid-20th century, and additional scripts from the Citizens' and Close Theatres in . These documents detail actor cues, stage directions, and production notes, serving as primary sources for studying Scottish dramatic history. The Moving Image Archive forms a cornerstone of the collections, housing over 46,000 and videos that span more than a century of Scottish , documentaries, and performance recordings. Relocated to Kelvin Hall in in , the archive focuses on materials reflecting Scotland's social, cultural, and artistic life, including amateur , professional documentaries, and ephemeral performance footage. Acquisitions from the enrich these holdings with scripts, posters, and occasional costumes, capturing the vibrancy of this annual event since its inception in 1947. The library actively collects and digitizes such , including programs and recordings from early Fringe productions, to preserve transient performances. For example, papers and audio from specific Fringe shows, like All Back to Bowie's, are archived to document grassroots theatre. Through these collections, the National Library of Scotland plays a vital role in safeguarding as , supporting research into Scottish history via access to original materials and digital surrogates. Exhibitions and outreach initiatives occasionally highlight these resources, such as displays featuring artifacts alongside moving images to illustrate evolving traditions.

Exploration and sciences

The National Library of Scotland houses significant collections dedicated to and , encompassing diaries, photographs, surveys, and expedition records that document human endeavors in extreme environments. These materials provide primary sources for understanding the of adventure and scientific discovery in and polar regions, with interdisciplinary connections to the library's collections for contextualizing routes and terrains. A cornerstone of the mountaineering holdings is the Graham Brown Collection, bequeathed by physiologist and alpinist Thomas Graham Brown in 1965, comprising over 20,000 items including diaries, expedition photographs, and personal notebooks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This archive captures detailed accounts of ascents in the and , supported by the associated Graham Brown Research Fellowship, which funds three-month projects on history. Complementing it is the Lloyd Collection, donated by Robert Wylie Lloyd in 1958, featuring books and journals on Himalayan surveys and tours, emphasizing early 20th-century topographical explorations. In the realm of polar exploration, the Wordie Collection, formed by geologist Sir James Mann Wordie and acquired in the mid-20th century, includes printed works and manuscripts from Antarctic expeditions of the 1910s and 1920s, such as those linked to Ernest Shackleton's voyage, with geological observations and expedition logs. These holdings extend to broader scientific pursuits, notably Aleister Crowley's self-published manuscripts from his time at near (1899–1913), which explore occult sciences through ritual texts and philosophical treatises produced under the Society for the Propagation of Religious Truth. Encompassing maritime engineering feats like the documents, which detail Robert Stevenson's 1807–1810 construction of the world's oldest surviving sea-washed lighthouse; these are highlighted in a dedicated talk held on November 13, 2025. Research support through fellowships fosters analysis of these collections, linking narrative accounts with cartographic evidence to advance studies in environmental sciences and .

Public services and digital initiatives

Access and reading facilities

The National Library of Scotland provides free membership to adults via an online registration form, requiring proof of identity and address to obtain a physical collected at the site in . This card grants access to physical collections in the reading rooms at and Causewayside in , as well as media facilities at Kelvin Hall in . Entry to the reading rooms necessitates presentation of and storage of bags, coats, and other belongings in provided lockers, with small clear plastic bags allowed inside for essentials like notebooks and laptops. Facilities include free across study spaces, key-operated lockers at no cost in some areas, and collaborative group study options such as the Discovery Room at . At Kelvin Hall, dedicated viewing rooms support consultation of analogue films, , and related archives. Policies permit self-service photography in the General, Special Collections, and Maps Reading Rooms for non-commercial research, subject to no-flash rules, staff permission via a visible card, and restrictions on fragile or in-copyright items. Reproduction services for users include scanning or printing at £0.30 per black-and-white page. Accessibility features encompass multiple lifts with audio floor announcements and buttons, flashing fire alarms, height-adjustable desks, magnifiers, screen-reading software, and assistance animal provisions, alongside accessible toilets and parking options. Annual visitor numbers to sites like exceeded pre-2020 levels by 30 percent during summer periods as of 2024, reflecting a shift to hybrid in-person access models post-pandemic.

Exhibitions, events, and outreach

The National Library of Scotland maintains a permanent titled Treasures of the National Library of Scotland at its building in , showcasing significant items from its collections to highlight Scotland's . Opened in 2022, the display features early printed Scottish books, manuscripts such as the Glenriddell Manuscripts by , historical maps, and documents like the Order for the Massacre of Glencoe, with rotating selections to preserve the materials. Free to visit and accessible to all ages, the includes multilingual text in English, , and Scots, along with an audio tour via the Smartify app for enhanced visitor engagement. The Library organizes a variety of public events, including talks and tours, to engage audiences with its collections and history. In November 2025, as part of its centenary celebrations, it hosted the talk Libraries that shaped me on 12 November, exploring libraries' influence in pop culture through discussions by authors like Louise Welsh. The following day, on 13 November, the event Lighting the way: The story of the Bell Rock lighthouse examined the engineering and historical significance of this iconic Scottish structure using Library materials. A Library social: Maps session on 14 November provided interactive insights into cartographic treasures, fostering public appreciation of the Library's map collections. Complementing these, the centenary Outwith tour brings select treasures to communities across Scotland, starting with an exhibition of the 1682 music book Songs and Fancies at Aberdeen Art Gallery from 13 September 2025 to 4 January 2026, followed by displays in Perth and Shetland in 2026, accompanied by local events like the National Library Live fair in Aberdeen on 8 November 2025. In 2025, the library faced criticism for initially excluding the gender-critical anthology The Women Who Wouldn't Wheesht from the Dear Library centenary exhibition following concerns raised by its + staff network. After public outcry and consultations, the decision was reversed, and the book was added to the display by 5 September. An independent investigation in October 2025 upheld complaints regarding the flawed selection process and inadequate equality impact assessment. Outreach efforts extend the Library's resources to educational and community groups through targeted programs. School workshops and self-led visits at sites in and support curriculum-based learning, with sessions on topics like Scottish history and , accommodating groups of up to 12 pupils and offering for teachers and librarians. Family history workshops, such as those at the annual Family History Fair, provide hands-on guidance from experts on using archives, newspapers, and databases to trace ancestry, with events like map-based sessions scheduled for 21 2025. In partnership with , the Library contributed to the Inspiring the Nation: 300 Years of Libraries in exhibition, launched on 7 March 2025 at Visitor Centre, which traces the evolution of Scottish libraries from private collections to public institutions, coinciding with the NLS centenary. Community involvement is encouraged through volunteer roles and donation campaigns that sustain the Library's work. Volunteer opportunities include placements in the Moving Image and Sound Collections, where participants assist with cataloging and preservation over 10-20 days in a 12-week period, as offered starting August 2025. Support campaigns, such as the Centenary Appeal, invite one-off or regular donations to fund exhibitions like Outwith and projects, alongside options for patrons to receive event access and legacy giving through wills. These initiatives foster in preserving Scotland's .

Digital resources and preservation

The National Library of Scotland maintains a robust accessible via its website at nls.uk, offering free public to digitized collections that include over 400,000 historic maps, scanned books, photographs, and other images through the Digital Gallery. These resources encompass materials from the Library's vast holdings, enabling users worldwide to explore Scottish heritage without physical visitation. For registered members, particularly those with a Scottish , eResources provide subscription-based to premium such as , alongside journals, newspapers, and academic publications to support advanced research. This dual structure—freely available open content alongside member-exclusive tools—facilitates broad engagement while prioritizing scholarly depth. Key digitization projects form the core of the Library's efforts to transition physical collections into accessible digital formats. The Moving Image Archive, housed at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, preserves over 46,000 items spanning a century of Scottish film, television, and amateur footage, with ongoing digitization to safeguard fragile media like film reels and VHS tapes. As part of the "Reaching People: Library Strategy 2020-2025," the institution digitized over one third of its diverse collections by 2025, surpassing the goal, while emphasizing ethical use of technologies like artificial intelligence to enhance preservation and discoverability. This strategy integrates digital initiatives with sustainable infrastructure, aiming to connect users through online platforms and partnerships that amplify access to national heritage. Digital preservation strategies at the Library ensure the long-term integrity and availability of both and digitized content. Since the implementation of the 2013 legal deposit regulations, the Library has contributed to the UK Web Archive by selectively harvesting and storing UK-domain websites, focusing on Scottish cultural and historical sites using tools like for annual crawls. Complementing this, the Digital Preservation Policy outlines managed activities to maintain , including redundant cloud-based storage solutions such as Scality RING, which handles thousands of newly digitized assets weekly. Physical storage for employs climate-controlled environments to mitigate risks from environmental factors. In July 2025, the Library relaunched its website with a new , enhancing navigation, compliance, and integration of digital collections to better serve diverse users. Open access policies further promote reuse, applying licenses like CC0 ( Dedication) to digitizations of out-of-copyright works and CC BY for and original content, allowing free sharing with attribution where required. These policies align with the Library's centenary celebrations in 2025, which include online exhibits and digital resources exploring its history and collections alongside physical displays. In November 2025, the library launched its new strategy for 2025-2030, which includes continued development of its digital resources and preservation efforts.

References

  1. [1]
    Introduction to our collections | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 27, 2025 · The library holds over 61 million items, including books, journals, newspapers, archives, maps, music, film, artwork, and government ...
  2. [2]
    Our history | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 15, 2025 · A timeline of the National Library of Scotland, from its early beginnings in 1689 to the 2025 centenary, highlighting key milestones and collections.
  3. [3]
    Visit the Library | National Library of Scotland
    Find everything you need to plan your visit to the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh or Glasgow, from opening hours to accessibility.Kelvin Hall, Glasgow · George IV Bridge, Edinburgh · Maps at Causewayside...
  4. [4]
    National Library of Scotland | Home
    We collect Scotland's stories - preserving the past, enriching the present and inspiring the future! Explore our collections. Stories. Explore our collections ...Collections · Family history · Dear Library · JoinMissing: facts | Show results with:facts
  5. [5]
    The Advocates Library: a vital resource with an illustrious history
    May 3, 2021 · Indeed, it has played a central role in the life of the nation since it was founded in 1682 by the then Lord Advocate Sir George Mackenzie of ...
  6. [6]
    Legal deposit explained - Edinburgh - National Library of Scotland
    Aug 20, 2025 · Legal deposit is the foundation of the National Library of Scotland's collections, starting back in 1710 and continuing to grow, with ...On This Page · What Is Legal Deposit? · What Is Available?Missing: Advocates 1682
  7. [7]
    The Advocates Library, Edinburgh | Legal Information Management
    Feb 18, 2022 · This article details some of the history attached to the Advocates Library ... The library was formally instituted in 1689 by Sir George Mackenzie ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  8. [8]
    National Library of Scotland Act 1925 (repealed) - Legislation.gov.uk
    An Act to establish a National Library in Scotland on the foundation of the Library gifted for that purpose by the Faculty of Advocates, and for purposes ...
  9. [9]
    The National Library of Scotland: A timeline
    Aug 15, 2025 · The National Library of Scotland became official through an Act of Parliament, transforming it from a private institution to a public resource.
  10. [10]
    Obituary: Robert Donaldson, National Library of Scotland legend
    Feb 13, 2021 · He devoted the next 27 years of his professional life to the National Library, first as Assistant Keeper and then as Deputy Keeper to J H Loudon ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  11. [11]
    National Library of Scotland, 57 George IV Bridge, Edinburgh ...
    Dec 14, 1970 · The most significant period of library construction in Scotland was 1883-1914, when over 70 public libraries were built. In contrast after the ...
  12. [12]
    News--ANL Oct 1982 - American Institute for Conservation
    Oct 29, 1982 · ... Conservation Officer of the National Library of Scotland in August. He was previously Supervisor of Binding and Conservation at St. Andrews ...
  13. [13]
    Reaching People: Library Strategy 2020-2025
    Aug 20, 2025 · 'Reaching People: Library Strategy, 2020-2025' will emphasise connecting with multiple audiences and enriching lives with our content and ...
  14. [14]
    National Library boosts growth in reaching people
    Sep 29, 2020 · Reaching People: Library Strategy 2020-2025, builds upon the Library's successes over the past five years, and looks towards its centenary ...
  15. [15]
    National Library of Scotland Unveils Landmark Centenary Programme
    Jan 30, 2025 · National Librarian Amina Shah today (30 January 2025) announced plans to mark the National Library of Scotland's 100th birthday with a year-long ...
  16. [16]
    National Library of Scotland Launches Centenary Celebrations
    The National Library will be hosting celebrations at its home on George IV Bridge in Edinburgh, beginning on 28 March 2025 with a Curtain Raiser event. This ...
  17. [17]
    OUTWITH – National Library around Scotland
    OUTWITH – National Library around Scotland ; Dates and times. 13 September 2025 to 20 June 2026 ; Type. Display ; Location. Scotland ; Price. Free.
  18. [18]
    National Library programme goes on tour
    Sep 11, 2025 · 'OUTWITH: National Library around Scotland' is a collaborative programme of feature loans, events and activities to be delivered as part of the ...
  19. [19]
    Accessible design and discoverability underpins approach to ...
    Jul 29, 2025 · Accessible design and discoverability underpins approach to engaging audiences on new National Library of Scotland website.Missing: Umbraco | Show results with:Umbraco
  20. [20]
    Transformation revitalises National Library website - Silicon Scotland
    Jul 31, 2025 · We were asked to design and deliver a new platform that aligned with the Library's wider strategic objectives around improving access, engaging ...Related Stories From Silicon... · Vpn Questions Surge After... · Users Encouraged To 'find...
  21. [21]
    Papers of Beth Junor - Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue
    This primarily includes material of 'Greenham Common Women's Peace Camp: A History of Non-Violent Resistance 1984-1995' edited by Beth Junor (1995, Working ...
  22. [22]
    [PDF] Sustainability and climate action of National Libraries in the UK and ...
    Oct 14, 2025 · • Strategy 2022-2026 (National Library of Ireland, 2022). • Reaching People: Library Strategy 2020-2025 (National Library of Scotland, 2020).
  23. [23]
    https://siliconscotland.news/transformation-revitalises-national-library-website/
  24. [24]
    National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh Old Town building
    Jan 24, 2024 · National Library of Scotland building, Edinburgh design by Reginald Fairle and A.R.Conlon architect, George IV Bridge architecture photos.
  25. [25]
    National Library of Scotland George IV Bridge - Edinburgh Tourist
    The National Library of Scotland's main building is located on George IV Bridge in the Old Town of Edinburgh. Its holds over 15 million books and printed items.
  26. [26]
    Visit George IV Bridge, Edinburgh - National Library of Scotland
    Visit George IV Bridge in Edinburgh to join the Library (it's free!) and access our extensive collections in the reading rooms.Consult collections in person · Join · Festive opening hours<|control11|><|separator|>
  27. [27]
    Treasures of the National Library of Scotland
    From March 2025 to March 2026 a new Treasures exhibit will tell the story of how the National Library of Scotland was established, featuring the 1925 Act of ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  28. [28]
    national library of scotland – entrance redevelopment
    The existing National Library building on George IV Bridge started on site in 1938, interrupted by the Second World War, and completed in 1956. The original ...
  29. [29]
    Accessibility at George IV Bridge | National Library of Scotland
    Sep 25, 2025 · There are two accessible unisex toilets in the George IV bridge building. ... © 2025 National Library of Scotland.Missing: architecture construction
  30. [30]
    [PDF] 2023/24 Annual Audit Report National Library of Scotland
    Sep 25, 2024 · Exhibition visitors. 119,123. 110,000. 120,152. Website usage. 5.2 million ... on the website in a number of formats. For information on our.
  31. [31]
    Centenary time machine trail - National Library of Scotland
    Mar 22, 2025 · 2025 marks the centenary of the National Library of Scotland. Visit new displays and listen to an audio tour to discover the history of the Library over the ...
  32. [32]
    Visit Maps at Causewayside, Edinburgh - National Library of Scotland
    Visits to the Maps Reading Room are by appointment only, requiring free library membership. The address is 33 Salisbury Place, Edinburgh, EH9 1SL.
  33. [33]
    National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh Causewayside Building
    Feb 26, 2014 · The National Library of Scotland has appointed Graham Construction to undertake a £10m reclad and redevelopment of its Causewayside Building.Missing: studios | Show results with:studios
  34. [34]
    National Library of Scotland - Edinburgh - The Cockburn Association
    You will be able to explore and discover hidden nooks in the Library's Causewayside and George IV Bridge buildings through videos and virtual tours (see the ...
  35. [35]
    'Parchment: History and Conservation' workshop
    Jan 25, 2019 · ... Conservation' workshop was hosted by the National Library of Scotland at their Causewayside building in Edinburgh in November 2018. I was ...
  36. [36]
    Visit Kelvin Hall, Glasgow | National Library of Scotland
    Immerse yourself in films, videos and photographs from our moving image and sound archive at Kelvin Hall in Glasgow.
  37. [37]
    Glasgow's historic Kelvin Hall opens after £35m revamp - BBC News
    Nov 11, 2016 · Glasgow's Kelvin Hall has been officially reopened as one of the UK's biggest museums and research centres following a £35m refurbishment.
  38. [38]
    About Us - The National Library of Scotland at Kelvin Hall - Glasgow ...
    The National Library of Scotland at Kelvin Hall offers digital resources, including films and videos of Scottish history, and is a venue for events. The ...
  39. [39]
    National Library of Scotland unveils landmark Centenary programme
    Mar 21, 2025 · 'Outwith: National Library around Scotland' will begin in Aberdeen Art Gallery in September 2025 with a loan of an early edition of Scottish ...Missing: pop- | Show results with:pop-
  40. [40]
    About NLS - National Library of Scotland - Aspen People
    Founded in the early 1680s, the Advocates Library in Edinburgh was formally opened in 1689. Under the 1710 Copyright Act it was given the legal right to claim ...Missing: 1682 | Show results with:1682
  41. [41]
    Classes of Information | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 21, 2025 · The Library was established in 1925 by the National Library of Scotland Act 1925 (PDF) (103 KB; 8 pages). The governance of the Library was ...
  42. [42]
    [PDF] National Library of Scotland Annual Report and Financial ...
    Sep 29, 2023 · Its principal address is George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1EW. The Library is one of six Legal. Deposit Libraries in the British Isles. As a ...
  43. [43]
    About the Board | National Library of Scotland
    Oct 28, 2025 · Find out about the governance, membership and meetings of the Library's Board. There are 10 Board members plus a Board Chair.Missing: Trustees | Show results with:Trustees
  44. [44]
    [XLS] Scottish Budget 2024-25 - Level 4 Tables
    Dec 19, 2023 · NHS Territorial Boards will receive allocation increases of 4.3% for 2024-25 compared to the 2023-24 Scottish Budget. This includes funding for ...
  45. [45]
    Library Leadership Team
    Aug 15, 2025 · National Librarian and Chief Executive. Amina (she/her) has over 25 years of experience across the library and cultural sector in Scotland.Missing: Keeper | Show results with:Keeper
  46. [46]
    William Kirk Dickson: Scotland's first National Librarian
    William Kirk Dickson (1860 to 1949) was Keeper of the Advocates Library until 1925, when he became the first Librarian of the National Library of Scotland.Missing: notable curators
  47. [47]
    Obituary, James Seaton OBE, principal keeper of the National ...
    Aug 31, 2012 · James (Hamish) Robert Seaton spent most of his professional career in the National Library of Scotland, where he was a constant and welcoming ...
  48. [48]
    [PDF] Inventory Acc.11997 Professor Edward Frederick Denis Roberts ...
    Working papers relating to the doctoral thesis of Professor Edward Frederick Denis. Roberts (1927-1990), Librarian, National Library of Scotland, 1970-90.
  49. [49]
    Certificates and awards of Edward Frederick Denis Roberts from the ...
    Letters of congratulations to Edward Frederick Denis Roberts, 1969, upon his appointment as Librarian of the National Library of Scotland, with related material ...
  50. [50]
    A life in libraries | National Library of Scotland
    Amina Shah is the National Librarian and Chief Executive of the National Library of Scotland. She lives in Fife with her partner, four children and their dog.Missing: keepers curators<|control11|><|separator|>
  51. [51]
    National Library of Scotland - The List
    Kay will be joined by National Library of Scotland manuscripts curators Dan Sheehy and Colin McIlroy to discuss the joys and challenges of curation, how it ...
  52. [52]
    The making of a national collection | National Library of Scotland
    Oct 25, 2025 · Begin your journey with curators at the National Library, exploring unique materials which document the creation of the new Library and the ...
  53. [53]
    Annual Review 2019 to 2020 | National Library of Scotland
    The National Library of Scotland's Annual Review 2019 to 2020. Read about digitised collections, research, engagement activities, and acquisitions.
  54. [54]
    Legal deposit for publishers | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 20, 2025 · A guide for publishers on their obligations with legal deposit and how to submit material to the National Library of Scotland.How To Deposit · Notice And Take Down Policy · Cataloguing And MetadataMissing: origins Faculty Advocates 1682
  55. [55]
    National Library of Scotland, Edinburgh - CERL
    May 30, 2024 · In 1925, the National Library of Scotland was founded when the Advocates' Library gave its non-legal collections of manuscripts and printed ...Historical Note · Name And Coverage Of File · Recommendations For...Missing: development | Show results with:development<|control11|><|separator|>
  56. [56]
    Newspapers for family history | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 15, 2025 · We collect a copy of every newspaper published in Scotland and all the main UK national papers. Newspapers are useful for your family history ...Missing: sets | Show results with:sets
  57. [57]
    The John Murray Archive: Pioneering British publishing
    Following this, the National Library of Scotland acquired the John Murray business archive, spanning 1768 to 1921.Missing: 1960s 1980s
  58. [58]
    India Papers and family history | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 14, 2025 · Find out how the India Papers collection could be useful for your family history research ... © 2025 National Library of Scotland.
  59. [59]
    Correspondence and papers of the Elliot family of Minto.
    The Minto Papers richly document the activities of the leading members of ... National Library of Scotland Archives and Manuscripts Division ...
  60. [60]
    Personal and literary papers and correspondence of Sir Patrick ...
    Papers of Patrick and Joan Leigh Fermor. Finding Aid & Administrative Information. Author: National Library of Scotland; Date: 13 05 2014; Description rules ...
  61. [61]
    https://www.nls.uk/collections/stories/printing-and-publishing/the-john-murray-archive/
  62. [62]
    Beth Junor's Greenham Common archive
    Read about Beth Junor's powerful archive of feminist protest at Greenham Common, an inspiring story of courage, resistance and hope.
  63. [63]
    Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue - National Library of Scotland
    Through this site you can search and browse the catalogue records and finding aids which describe the archival collections. They can be consulted in our Special ...Browse Resources · Subjects · NamesMissing: microfilming projects printed 20th century<|control11|><|separator|>
  64. [64]
    Map Collections - Map images - National Library of Scotland
    Over 1.5 million sheet maps; 15,000 atlases; 100,000 maps on microfilm; Growing volumes of digital mapping; Gazetteers, cartographic reference books and ...
  65. [65]
    Maps and Map History Using the Bartholomew Archive, National ...
    Nov 9, 2010 · The recently acquired and newly accessible Bartholomew Archive in the National Library of Scotland incorporates the administrative, ...
  66. [66]
    Military Maps of Scotland (18th-19th centuries)
    The Board of Ordnance made numerous maps and plans for the use of government troops. They provide valuable information about 18th century Scotland.
  67. [67]
    Stevenson Maps and Plans of Scotland, 1660-1940
    Lighthouse material in the collection includes surveys of potential lighthouse sites, designs for towers, barracks and ... National Library of Scotland.
  68. [68]
    Maps of Scotland, 1560s-1950s - Map Images
    Maps covering the whole of Scotland. For more detailed maps of parts of Scotland, view county maps, town plans, or Ordnance Survey maps.
  69. [69]
    https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/03085690903319408
  70. [70]
    Maps for researching House and Building History
    This page will take you through the most relevant maps for researching building and house history, arranged roughly chronologically.
  71. [71]
    OUTWITH: National Library of Scotland at Aberdeen City Libraries
    Saturday, 8 November 2025. Home ... Speaker Bio: Paula Williams is curator of Maps, Mountaineering & Polar Collections at the National Library of Scotland.
  72. [72]
    Collections | National Library of Scotland
    Over 400,000 historic maps of the UK and Ireland and beyond, in zoomable high resolution, with tools to find, compare and annotate. Close-up photo of a map.Archives and Manuscripts · Stories · Printing and publishing · Scottish BroadsidesMissing: facts | Show results with:facts<|control11|><|separator|>
  73. [73]
    Introduction to our catalogues | National Library of Scotland
    Sep 19, 2025 · Rare books important acquisitions directory. This gives details about rare books that we have collected since 2000 and why they are important ...Specialist Catalogues · Scots Abroad Databases · Digitised CollectionsMissing: 1976 | Show results with:1976
  74. [74]
    Theatre Posters 1870-1900 - Data Foundry
    A digitised collection of the Weir Collection of playbills, programmes and photographs mainly of Edinburgh theatres in the late 19th century.Missing: holdings 18th
  75. [75]
    Stage set for "The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil ...
    Stage set for "The Cheviot, the Stag and the Black, Black Oil", designed and painted as a giant pop-up book to form five individual backdrops to the play.
  76. [76]
    Prompt scripts of 83 plays performed at The Gateway Theatre ...
    Prompt scripts of 83 plays performed at The Gateway Theatre, Edinburgh. Collection Overview; Collection Organization; Inventory.Missing: playbills | Show results with:playbills
  77. [77]
    https://www.nls.uk/tools-for-research/introduction-to-our-catalogues/
  78. [78]
    Escape to the mountains (on film) - National Library of Scotland Blog
    Apr 29, 2020 · The Library's Moving Image Archive holds 46,000 items including film cans, videotapes and digital files – over 120 years of Scotland's ...
  79. [79]
    Fringe ephemera - National Library of Scotland Blog
    Aug 16, 2022 · We have embarked on a project to list what we have in the collection relating to the early years of the Fringe.Missing: scripts posters
  80. [80]
    Papers and audio recordings produced as part of the Edinburgh ...
    Papers and audio recordings produced as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe show "All Back to Bowie's". Collection Overview; Collection Organization.Missing: posters | Show results with:posters
  81. [81]
    [PDF] Theatre Archives
    It includes manuscripts, prompt books, scripts, programmes, posters, photographs, and personal papers of Scottish playwrights, actors, directors, and theatre ...
  82. [82]
    Past exhibitions | National Library of Scotland
    An overview of some of the exhibitions and displays held at the National Library of Scotland since 2003.Missing: acquisitions 1960s
  83. [83]
    The Graham Brown Collection. | Archives and Manuscripts Catalogue
    Scope and Contents. Comprising correspondence and papers of T Graham Brown, concerning mountaineering. Dates. Creation: 1877-1962.Missing: Research Fellowship
  84. [84]
    Mountaineering. Catalogue of the Graham Brown and Lloyd ...
    14-day returnsThe two benefactors to whom the Library owes these outstanding collections are Professor Thomas Graham Brown, who bequeathed his collection of some 20,000 items ...
  85. [85]
    SHELF-CATALOGUE OF THE LLOYD COLLECTION OF ALPINE ...
    LLOYD COLLECTION: The collection of books on mountaineering, mainly relating to the Alps, bequeathed by Robert Wylie Lloyd (1886-1958), ...
  86. [86]
    From Loch Ness to legal deposit: Aleister Crowley's Scottish chapter
    While living at Boleskine, Crowley wrote and published under the auspices of the "Society for the Propagation of Religious Truth". Its place of publication was ...
  87. [87]
    Lighting the way: The story of the Bell Rock lighthouse
    The Bell Rock lighthouse, built by Scottish Engineer Robert Stevenson, is the world's oldest working sea-washed lighthouse. It has been guiding mariners ...
  88. [88]
    How to join | National Library of Scotland
    ### Summary of Joining the National Library of Scotland
  89. [89]
    Join the National Library of Scotland
    We have over 61 million print and digital items in our collections. Explore rare books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, music, moving images and official ...
  90. [90]
    Consult collections in person - National Library of Scotland
    Oct 9, 2025 · Lockers at our George IV building in Edinburgh (General and Special Collections Reading Rooms) take a £1 coin. Staff at the café till will give ...
  91. [91]
    Terms and Conditions | National Library of Scotland
    Sep 26, 2025 · In the reading rooms, clear plastic bags must be stored on the floor and not on the desks. Changes to terms and conditions. We may revise ...
  92. [92]
    [DOC] self-service photography terms of use and guidance (Word document)
    We permit self-service photography in our three reading rooms – the General Reading Room, the Special Collections Reading Room, and the Maps Reading Room.
  93. [93]
    Copying services guide | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 14, 2025 · Ask a librarian. Explore printed, moving image, digital, and archive and manuscript collections, plus eResources and databases. Search ...
  94. [94]
    Accessibility at Causewayside | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 15, 2025 · The Library at Causewayside is fully accessible for wheelchair users and can cater for other access requirements. We also have a foldable ...
  95. [95]
    National Library visitor numbers outstrip pre-pandemic levels
    Jan 12, 2025 · The National Library of Scotland experienced its busiest summer since 2017 with visits to George IV Bridge up 30 per cent on pre-Covid levels.Missing: annual capacity
  96. [96]
    New Treasures exhibition opens a window on the fascinating world ...
    Mar 24, 2022 · Treasures of the National Library of Scotland is a new permanent ... Treasures of the National Library of Scotland exhibition. Download.
  97. [97]
    Libraries that shaped me
    100 years in a day. Screening. 26 November 2025, 6:30PM to 7:30PM ; Dear Library. Exhibition. 20 June 2025 to 18 April 2026 ; Creative writing: ...
  98. [98]
    https://www.nls.uk/visit/accessibility-at-causewayside/
  99. [99]
    Schools and teachers | National Library of Scotland
    ### School Programs and Outreach Activities at National Library of Scotland
  100. [100]
    Family History Fair - Edinburgh - National Library of Scotland
    Maps for family and local history. Workshop. 21 November 2025, 10:00AM to 11:30AM. A map of Newington in Edinburgh from 1891. ; Celebrate Scotland's festive ...
  101. [101]
    History of Scotland's Libraries Explored in New Exhibition
    Mar 7, 2025 · Maeshowe Visitor Centre is today (Friday 7 March 2025) welcoming a brand-new exhibition celebrating Scotland's libraries.
  102. [102]
    Inspiring the Nation: 300 years of Libraries in Scotland | HES
    On 100th anniversary of the National Library of Scotland Act, we explore the ... Friday 7 November 2025. Stirling Castle 9.30am - 5pm. Last entry at 4pm.Missing: events | Show results with:events
  103. [103]
    We're looking for Moving Image & Sound Collection Volunteers! Join ...
    Jul 11, 2025 · The volunteer placement includes 10-20 days of commitment over a 12 week period, beginning in August 2025. Applications close Monday 21 July.Missing: donations | Show results with:donations
  104. [104]
    Ways to give | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 21, 2025 · Support the Library's work with a one-off or regular gift. Help digitise collections, fund exhibitions, and preserve Scottish heritage.
  105. [105]
    Support us | National Library of Scotland
    Make a donation. Support the Library's work with a one-off or regular gift. Help digitise collections, fund exhibitions, and preserve Scottish heritage.
  106. [106]
    Tools for research | National Library of Scotland
    Find out more about the different costs associated with reuse. Get copies or reproductions. How to order copies of collection items and the associated fees for ...
  107. [107]
    National Library of Scotland eResources - Electronic Resources
    Oct 22, 2025 · The National Library of Scotland provides access electronic resources collections that cover a variety of subject areas.
  108. [108]
    National Library of Scotland | Moving Image Archive HQ - Letterboxd
    The National Library of Scotland's Moving Image Archive, located in the Kelvin Hall in Glasgow, holds over 46,000 items including film cans, VHS tapes, and ...<|separator|>
  109. [109]
    Catalyst - Digital Cultural Heritage - Alison Stevenson NLS
    NLS aims to digitize one third of its diverse collections by 2025, facing challenges in preservation, security, and ensuring access to digital cultural ...
  110. [110]
    Web archiving | National Library of Scotland
    Aug 20, 2025 · A guide on web archive. It covers what and how the National Library of Scotland crawls and archives websites, and what publishers can do in ...
  111. [111]
    [DOC] Digital Preservation Policy - National Library of Scotland
    Sep 18, 2023 · Most posts have a strong digital component, and the equivalent of 9 full-time members of staff contribute directly to digital preservation.
  112. [112]
    National Library of Scotland - Scality
    Thousands of assets are digitized and stored on Scality RING per week, preserving precious collections and making them accessible to the public.
  113. [113]
    NRS Digital Preservation Policy - National Records of Scotland
    Jun 25, 2025 · Digital preservation is the ongoing, managed activity necessary to ensure continued access to information contained in digital records of enduring value.Missing: resources | Show results with:resources
  114. [114]
    Copyright guide | National Library of Scotland
    Sep 29, 2025 · Many items in our collections are protected by copyright. This guide explains exceptions, re-use, and permission regarding items in our ...
  115. [115]
    In our centenary year, we're celebrating everything about libraries
    Jul 16, 2025 · In our centenary year, we're celebrating everything about libraries; in person and online! Today, we are excited to launch a new main ...<|separator|>