Edinburgh Central Library

Edinburgh Central Library is the city’s main public library, occupying a landmark building on George IV Bridge in the Old Town. Opened in 1890, it was Edinburgh’s first purpose-built public library and remains an important centre for reading, research, music, local history, talks, exhibitions, and community events.

The building contains several specialist services alongside the Central Lending Library. These include the Reference Library, Edinburgh and Scottish Collection, Music Library, Art and Design Library, and Central Children’s Library.

What You Can Find Inside

Visitors can browse and borrow books, use study and research facilities, explore historic collections, and attend selected free events. The Edinburgh and Scottish Collection is particularly useful for local and family-history research, while the Music Library regularly supports concerts and performances on the mezzanine.

Some activities need advance booking even when admission is free. Individual departments may also keep different opening hours, so check the relevant library page before making a special journey.

Location and Getting There

Central Library is at 7 George IV Bridge, opposite the National Library of Scotland and close to Victoria Street, the Royal Mile, and Greyfriars Kirkyard. Edinburgh Waverley is around a ten-minute walk away, and numerous buses stop on George IV Bridge and nearby South Bridge.

See the official Central Library page for current opening hours, contact details, accessibility information, and individual department services.