‘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 also 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.
Claire Whitbread, Exhibitions Manager at Historic Environment Scotland, said:
"Libraries play a vital part of Scotland’s social history, from the Wanlockhead Miner’s Library established in 1756 which aimed to encourage ‘self-improvement’ in the local mining community, to Edinburgh’s Central Library, opening in 1890 and the first public library building in the city.
Through this exhibition, we’re shining a light on these pivotal parts of communities and the fascinating stories within their walls, illuminating the continuing importance of libraries in our lives today.”
National Librarian Amina Shah, at National Library of Scotland, said:
“We’re delighted that Historic Environment Scotland are touring this display during the National Library’s centenary year. We’re using our big birthday to platform all kinds of libraries through our Love Libraries campaign, which we hope will inspire people to support and champion their local libraries. Our own major exhibition opening in Edinburgh in June, called ‘Dear Library’, will give visitors a whole new perspective on libraries. And so we’re thrilled to be involved in this exhibition celebrating how libraries have evolved to be the vital public services that they are today.”
‘Inspiring the Nation: 300 years of Libraries in Scotland’ is on at the Maeshowe Visitor Centre from Friday 7 March to Sunday 25 May 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free and no booking is required.
The exhibition will then move to Edinburgh Central Library where it will open in July.
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, Scran, Canmore, The National Collection of Aerial Photography (NCAP), The Engine Shed, Stirling Castle, and Edinburgh Castle are sub-brands of HES.
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For further information, please contact:
Laura Ely
Historic Environment Scotland Media Office
07721 959 962
communications@hes.scot