Exhibitions
Visit the free exhibitions in our George IV Bridge Building. Open daily, except on some public holidays. No need to book.
On this page
'Picturing Africa: Illustrating Livingstone's travels'
14 June to 3 November
Scottish missionary David Livingstone's African explorations made him world famous.
His sketches and maps, along with photographs by John Kirk and drawings and paintings by Thomas Baines, were the basis of some of the most iconic images of Africa ever created.
Through bestselling books, illustrated newspapers and magic lantern shows, these remarkable images became very popular in the 19th century.
This exhibition brings together unique and rare material, including original artwork, photos, woodblocks, manuscripts and books.
Treasures displays
Permanent display area with themes changed regularly.
- 'Celebrating Iona' — 3 May to 7 July
View a small sample of the many treasures in NLS collections. From hand-written documents to printed books, maps, musical scores, bindings and other art work.
All our treasures are important pieces of Scotland's cultural heritage. Some are unique. Some are beautiful. Some are huge. Some are tiny. Some are rarely seen in public because their age mades them fragile.
Throughout the year we will change the theme of the treasures display, bringing to light more of the millions of items we hold.
The John Murray Archive
Permanent exhibition.
The writers and thinkers of John Murray's publishing firm shaped the modern world through their works of literature, science, exploration and politics.
This exhibition draws on material from the John Murray Archive. It uses state-of-the-art exhibition technology to bring to life the work and lives of a selection of the publisher's most influential figures.
Those featured in the present line-up include Lord Byron, Lady Caroline Lamb, Charles Darwin and David Livingstone.
Learn how they contributed to one of the greatest periods of human progress and creativity. See if you could publish your own international bestseller.
Opening times for exhibitions at NLS
Monday to Friday: 10.00-20.00
Saturday: 10.00-17.00
Sunday: 14.00-17.00