National Library of Scotland

🚚✨ "Ssssh, we're a library!" This clip from ‘Connections’ (courtesy of Highlands and Islands Enterprise) showcases filmmaker Charlie Gormley promoting Scotland’s rural revival. The film reflects the Highlands & Islands Development Board’s vision to counter economic decline. Explore how libraries connect communities in our Dear Library exhibition. Plan your visit > https://lnkd.in/eR_y4t27 #NLS100 #LoveLibraries

How can libraries, at the front line of people's lives, help us preserve day-to-day stories for the future? 📻 The global Covid pandemic of 2020 changed all of our lives, from lockdown restrictions in our communities to enduring the tragic loss of loved ones. The 'What's Your Story' project, run by North Ayrshire Libraries, has recorded oral histories from community members about their experience of the pandemic. Amid the hardships of the Covid pandemic, uplifting stories about how communities pulled together shine through. Jen Law, a young mum who discovered she was pregnant in early 2020, participated in the project. She said, "The ‘What’s Your Story?’ project has been a cathartic and healing experience as it offered me the unique opportunity to really take stock of everything that happened – good and bad." Read more about how North Ayrshire libraries are preserving local experiences of the pandemic in our #LoveLibraries case study > https://lnkd.in/d6WUf-Yg

We are very sad to learn about the passing of Sir Kenneth Calman. He had an illustrious career in various sectors, and made a considerable impact on public policy in Scotland. His written work reflects his many interests and his influence – from his 1971 book on ‘Basic skills of surgical housemen: a guide to ward procedures’, to 1990s publications on ethics in public health, to publications in the 2000s on the study of storytelling humour and poetry in health and healing, to the summary of the commission on Scottish Devolution he led, and finally to his 2019 autobiography. We remember him fondly as Chair of the National Library of Scotland's board (from 2016 until 2020). We wouldn't be where we are today without his support and encouragement. But most of all, he was a really lovely person to work with. Our thoughts are with his family and his many friends.

Did you know Scotland's first free public lending library is nearly 350 years old? 🤔 Innerpeffray Library in rural Perthshire has welcomed readers from all walks of life since 1680, when it was founded by local landowner David Drummond, the third Lord Madertie. His trailblazing move allowed everyone from farm workers and weavers to schoolchildren and scholars to borrow and learn from his vast and varied collection of books – which were incredibly expensive in the 17th century and usually owned only by the wealthy. The library remains open to the public, who can browse rare treasures within its collections. Innerpeffray, now an independent charitable trust, attracts visitors from around the world. Read more about how Scotland’s historic first lending library continues to delight and serve in our #LoveLibraries case study > https://lnkd.in/dJFfj-2w

Join our official birthday celebration on Thursday 7 August! To mark our 100th birthday, we’re releasing a special edition centenary comic created by Beano Studios, especially for the occasion. The first 500 visitors to our George IV Bridge, Edinburgh and Kelvin Hall, Glasgow locations on the morning of 7 August will receive a copy - first-come, first-served! National Librarian Amina Shah says: “Beano is the longest running weekly comic created every week in Dundee for almost as long as we’ve been in existence. We cannot think of a more appropriate and fun way to mark our official birthday.” Craig Graham, Beano’s Director of Mayhem, adds: “100 years? That calls for maximum mayhem! We had a blast creating the story. The Bash Street Kids managed to get lost in the archives and luckily, no priceless manuscripts were harmed (we think!).” Plan your visit > https://www.nls.uk/visit/ #Beano #NLS100 #LoveLibraries #LibrariesAloud

In our centenary year, we’re celebrating everything about libraries; in person and online! Today, we are proud to launch the National Library of Scotland’s new website 🎉 It’s the result of in-depth research and collaboration, shaped by what people told us they need from the Library. The new site connects you more easily with our collections, events, and services. It’s clearer, faster and more inclusive — and reflects our commitment to those who love libraries and the role they play in public life. Visit us at www.nls.uk – we’d love to know what you think.

We’re looking for an Assistant Conservator 🔎 You’ll work on the preservation of the Bartholomew Reference Collection. This collection was used by the Bartholomew map makers to keep their own maps up to date and includes maps and atlases, as well as ephemera, posters and engravings. This is an excellent opportunity for someone starting their conservation career. This role is full time and fixed term until 31 March 2026 with a salary of £34,782 per annum. Apply online > https://lnkd.in/dEWZJQfj

How can libraries help communities in the face of the cost-of-living crisis? 💵 In Midlothian, four ‘Warm and Well’ hubs have been set up for those in need of company and a cosy and safe space. Visitors can also access free wi-fi, books and games, plus there are drop-in information sessions on issues such as financial and wellbeing support. There is also a coat collection service, where people can donate or collect coats in the colder weather. “There’s free soup and hot drinks on offer, as well as information and support services,” said Annabel Cavaroli, Customer Engagement Manager at Midlothian Council. “There’s a working group which brings together council and third sector partners who work closely to talk about areas of need and what we can do to help support our communities.” Read more about how libraries are caring for communities amid a cost-of-living crisis in our #LoveLibraries case study > https://lnkd.in/d7gHsCPw

We’re looking for Moving Image & Sound Collection Volunteers! 📢 Join the National Library of Scotland for a rare volunteer opportunity supporting our nationally significant broadcast archives. Work hands-on with historic television and radio collections—including Radio Clyde, Gaelic TV transmissions (1993–2019), and Scottish/Grampian TV archives—at our Kelvin Hall base. You will have an interest in how archives work, and you're excited by the history of broadcasting. You'll have good IT skills, and have strong attention to detail. The volunteer placement includes 10-20 days of commitment over a 12 week period, beginning in August 2025. Applications close Monday 21 July. Apply on our website > https://lnkd.in/dU8gXVJi

Local history is preserved at 'lifeline' local library ⛏️ The Village Voices of Newtongrange is a community group who meet weekly at their local library to share social history and shared experiences. Their meetings ring loud with tales of days gone by – of walks in the woods, wartime, village shops, school days, local sports teams and community groups, plus the rich history of mining in the area. The venture, launched in 2016, is just one way the local library bolsters it's community. Annabel Cavaroli at Midlothian Council said: "For many people the library is a lifeline. We have people who come in every day to read the paper and the librarian and other users might be the only friendly face they see or can talk to. You can’t put a value on that. There’s nothing like a library." Read more about how libraries are a lifeline for community groups in our #LoveLibraries case study > https://lnkd.in/ds7p-h5p