Workshops for new readers
Before your first visit to the reading rooms, join a workshop for new readers and find out about:
- Getting started at NLS
- Introduction to manuscripts
- Discovering family history at NLS
- Conservation at the Library
- Beyond Google — An introduction to Credo Reference and Oxford Reference Online
- An introduction to online newspaper resources
- Introduction to maps at NLS
- Maps for family and local history
Workshops are held in our George IV Bridge Building unless we state otherwise.
Getting started at NLS
Learn how to get a library card, find your way around the Library and request materials from our collections. The workshops will include a tour of the reading rooms and last around 90 minutes.
If you have specific access or other additonal needs, please let us know in advance when you book your place on the tour.
If you plan to register for a library card when you visit, please bring evidence of identity with you.
9 October
14.30
This event is now fully booked.
20 November
18.00
12 December
10.30
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email enquiries@nls.uk.
Introduction to manuscripts
Learn more about the varied and often surprising range of material held in the manuscripts collections at the National Library of Scotland.
1 October
14.30
This event is now fully booked.
Discovering family history at NLS
Find out how we can help you with your family history research. The workshops include some practical information on how to get a library card and use library resources.
If you plan to register for a library card when you visit, please bring evidence of identity with you.
1 October
10.00
13 November
14.30
9 December
18.00
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email enquiries@nls.uk.
Conservation at the Library
Visit the National Library of Scotland's Conservation department and learn about the importance of caring for our collections. Find out about the different techniques used to repair material, and the training and skills involved in this specialist field.
Access note: The workshop is situated on the 4th floor, and we regret there is no wheelchair access for this workshop.
29 October
14.30
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email enquiries@nls.uk.
Beyond Google — An introduction to Credo Reference and Oxford Reference Online
Learn how to access hundreds of quality reference books online. This workshop provides a basic introduction to the key features of two major online resources, Credo Reference and Oxford Reference Online.
13 November
10.00
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email enquiries@nls.uk.
Read all about it!
An introduction to online newspaper resources available via NLS.
Session includes demonstrations of a selection of resources and tips on how to search and discover the information you need.
22 October
14.00
10 December
10.00
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email enquiries@nls.uk.
Introduction to maps at NLS
NLS is home to one of the largest map collections in the world. Our shelves hold everything from town plans to world atlases, railway maps to star charts. Learn about the range of maps available, and view a selection of highlights from the collection. Includes an introduction to the Maps Reading Room.
Venue: Maps Reading Room, 159 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PH.
1 October
14.00-15.30
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email maps@nls.uk.
Maps for family and local history
Find out how maps can help with your family or local history research. Learn about the range of historical maps held by NLS, and the information they provide. Includes an introduction to the Maps Reading Room.
Venue: Maps Reading Room, 159 Causewayside, Edinburgh EH9 1PH.
7 November
14.00
This event is now fully booked.
Book online or phone 0131 623 3734. For more information about this workshop, email maps@nls.uk.