We collect Scotland's stories - preserving the past, enriching the present and inspiring the future!
Explore our collectionsAnnual appeal
Help us preserve and restore Scotland's film archive to its full glory, for the people of Scotland.
Visit our new exhibition
Rain
Dive into Scotland's relationship with rain, from weather forecasting, fashion, and film, to rain-soaked love stories.
Rewriting the Rules of the Library
Artist Peter Liversidge’s new library installation invites visitors to rethink libraries as spaces of trust, curiosity and community.
Nine ways of looking at rain
From weather forecasting to rain-soaked love stories, dive into Scotland's relationship with rain in nine objects from our collection.
Mapping memory: Britain's Second Land Utilisation Survey
Two volunteers revisit their 1960s maps from the Second Land Utilisation Survey, revealing the human stories behind Britain’s land use mapping.
Discover endless stories and resources.
Join the Library to get access to our reading rooms, visit us to get a Library card, order books online and access our digital resources wherever you are and at anytime you need them.
Join today
Visit the Library
Whether you're a student, researcher, or curious visitor, the Library offers a space to learn and be inspired. Uncover the treasures waiting for you at the heart of Scotland's literary heritage.
George IV Bridge, Edinburgh
Join the Library, view collections in our reading rooms, access eResources, and enjoy our exhibitions, events, café and shop.
Maps at Causewayside, Edinburgh
Visit the Maps Reading Room in our Causewayside building in Edinburgh to access our extensive maps collection.
Kelvin Hall, Glasgow
View films from our Moving Image Archive, attend workshops and events, and access online Library resources.
Our work and community
Learn about the National Library of Scotland, who we are, opportunities to join us, and how you can support our mission.
Find out more about the Library
