An exhibition celebrating Scotland’s libraries is opening at Edinburgh Central Library this week (Friday 11 July 2025).

‘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 Historic Environment Scotland, 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 – Saturday 20 September 2025. Entry to the exhibition is free and no booking is required.

For more information, visit historicenvironment.scot/whats-on.