‘Inspiring the Nation: 300 years of Libraries in Scotland’ explores the history of libraries in Scotland and how they've developed from private book collections to vital spaces at the heart of our communities.
Featuring images from Historic Environment Scotland’s archives, the exhibition charts their innovation and growth from the 17th century through their continued evolution in response to the changing needs of society to become the varied public services they are today.
The exhibition marks the 100th anniversary of the 1925 ‘National Library of Scotland Act’, which saw the establishment of the National Library of Scotland, one of the largest libraries in the United Kingdom.
Across the road, The National Library of Scotland has also opened an exhibition to commemorate their centenary. 'Dear Library' is described as a love letter to libraries, aiming to give visitors a whole new perspective on how libraries can help you, and how you can help them. Browse bookshelves in an open reading room filled with recommendations from the public and well-known Scottish figures. See libraries in popular culture, protest banners and badges, vintage film footage, and more.
Claire Whitbread, Exhibitions Manager at HES, said:
Through this exhibition, we’re shining a light on the vital part libraries play in Scotland’s social history, illuminating the continuing importance of these places in our lives today.
“It’s wonderful to be opening this exhibition at Edinburgh Central Library, a very fitting venue and the first public library building in the city, opening in 1890. It’s also just across the road from the National Library of Scotland, so I hope visitors enjoy exploring both of our exhibitions and discovering more about the fascinating world of libraries.”
Martha Burns Findlay, Head of Public Programmes at the National Library of Scotland, said:
“We're delighted that Historic Environment Scotland's new display at Edinburgh's Central Library will coincide with our own 'Dear Library' exhibition across the road at the National Library of Scotland. In our 100th year we're championing the vital role that libraries play in Scotland, so the twinned exhibitions provide a great opportunity for people to rekindle their love of libraries.”
‘Inspiring the Nation: 300 years of Libraries in Scotland’ is on at the Edinburgh Central Library from Friday 11 July to Saturday 20 September 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free and no booking is required.
About the National Library of Scotland (NLS)
The NLS is the nation’s living memory - preserving the past, enriching the present, and inspiring current and future generations through access to knowledge, culture, and innovation. We chart the DNA of Scottish society by documenting, preserving and sharing precious collections that capture our past and present. We support education, promote inclusivity, empower informed citizenship, and contribute to the economic and social fabric of the nation. We strive to understand Scotland’s place in the world and to explore connections with our neighbours near and far. We reflect Scotland. Rich, diverse, unfiltered.
About Historic Environment Scotland (HES)
- We are the lead body for Scotland’s historic environment, a charity dedicated to the advancement of heritage, culture, education and environmental protection. It is at the forefront of researching and understanding the historic environment and addressing the impacts of climate change on its future, investigating and recording architectural and archaeological sites and landscapes across Scotland and caring for more than 300 properties of national importance. We are also the lead on delivering Scotland's strategy for the historic environment, Our Past, Our Future.
- Historic Scotland, trove.scot, The National Collection of Aerial Photography (NCAP), The Engine Shed, Stirling Castle, Edinburgh Castle and Stòr are sub-brands of HES.
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For further information, please contact:
Laura Ely
Historic Environment Scotland Media Office
07881 512 379
communications@hes.scot