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National Library of Scotland
The building exterior at the entrance of the National Library of Scotland with people outside

Overview

Visit George IV Bridge in Edinburgh to join the Library (it's free!) and access our extensive collections in the reading rooms.

We have a range of spaces to work or study in. Find a quiet seat in the General Reading Room, or use our Discovery Room to chat and collaborate.

You can find inspiration through our events and exhibitions. Get up close to the stories, ideas, and treasures that shape Scotland's rich heritage.

No matter what brings you here, make sure to take a break in our café or browse in our shop for gifts, books and souvenirs.

A foyer leading up to a large staircase
A large library space with people studying at desks

Facilities and accessibility

Accessibility

Find out about accessibility at George IV Bridge.

Café

A range of food and drink options and a relaxed space with WiFi. There are some power sockets available for devices.

Contemplation Space

Use this room for religious observance, praying or taking some time out. We aim to make the room as accessible and flexible as possible for a range of needs.

Visiting with children

Feel free to breastfeed in any of our public spaces. If you prefer a private room, you can use the Contemplation Space.

We have baby change facilities. Some of our spaces, like the café and Discovery Room, include comfortable chairs and some toys and books for children.

Gallery

Opening times

  1. Monday
    10am to 7pm
  2. Tuesday
    10am to 7pm
  3. Wednesday
    10am to 7pm
  4. Thursday
    10am to 7pm
  5. Friday
    10am to 5pm
  6. Saturday
    10am to 5pm
  7. Sunday
    Closed

Location

Address

National Library of Scotland
George IV Bridge
Edinburgh
EH1 1EW

Get directions on Google Maps

Telephone

0131 623 3700 (main switchboard)

Use Contact Scotland's BSL video relay service

Parking

Off-street parking is available at nearby NCP sites.

Blue Badge holders can park on the single and double yellow lines on George IV Bridge. There is also parking for Blue Badge holders 24 hours a day at the top of Victoria Street (south side) opposite the Library.

Cycling

There are bike racks on George IV Bridge, Victoria Street and Chambers Street.

What's on at George IV Bridge

Browse all events and exhibitions

Edinburgh 900: Stories of the city

Performance
13 September 2025, 2:00PM to 3:00PM
A black and white photo of a woman posing with a fan, and a colour photo of a man speaking.

Heart Lines: A zine and movement workshop with Gemma Cairney

Workshop
19 September 2025, 2:00PM to 4:00PM
A woman's silhouette in a window with sunshine streaming in.

A library of laughs with the Beano

Performance
20 September 2025, 2:00PM to 3:00PM
A Beano comic about Beanotown Library.

Discover endless stories and resources.

Join the Library to get access to our reading rooms, visit us to get a library card, preorder books online and access our digital resources wherever you are and at anytime you need them.
Join

Support your national Library

Your donation preserves Scotland's rich heritage, ensuring that our world-renowned resources remain accessible to future generations. Every gift, large or small, makes a difference.
Donate today