Scotland boasts an impressively rich cultural heritage, a fact largely due to the meticulous care and attention given to the arts. Delving into its history, it becomes clear that many Scottish cities were true pioneers, setting trends in various fields. Architecture, painting, sculpture, music, and literature all flourished here, with local masters astonishing the world with their creations. Throughout the ages, it was Edinburgh that most vividly showcased this cultural evolution. The city has long held a special status, acting as a magnet for the most talented individuals. Read more about at edinburgh1.one.
A Place Where Freedom, Creativity, and Talent United
In many ways, it’s fair to say that Edinburgh was a bohemian hub. It hosted numerous events that attracted creative and free-spirited figures, and as a result, knowledge itself was revered throughout the city. This fostered a vibrant environment of schools, readings, and lectures, where experts generously shared their unique insights, enlightening all who attended.
Institutions That Championed Education
Among the many places in Edinburgh that cultivated an atmosphere of enlightenment and culture, libraries rightfully stand out. Since ancient times, these institutions have served as a true beacon for the local population, promoting personal development through their vast book collections on every imaginable subject.
The National Library of Scotland is more than just a library. Throughout its existence, this institution has made a significant contribution to raising the educational standards of Edinburgh’s residents. It also has a remarkable history, one that is deeply intertwined with the city’s own past.
The Advocates Library: The Forerunner to the National Library
The story begins before the National Library of Scotland even existed, with the Advocates Library. Its foundation dates back to the early 1680s, though it officially opened in 1689.
This institution was the law library for the Faculty of Advocates, a part of the College of Justice. Following the passage of the Copyright Act 1710, the Advocates Library was granted the legal deposit right to claim a copy of every book published in Great Britain.
Over the centuries that followed, its collection grew immensely, both through the purchase of books and manuscripts and through its legal deposit privilege.
A Donation That Changed Everything
By the 1920s, however, maintaining the vast Advocates Library had become a considerable financial burden. Help arrived in the form of a generous donation from Sir Alexander Grant, the managing director of the biscuit company McVitie & Price. His contribution set in motion a profound transformation for the institution.
This led to its re-establishment as the National Library of Scotland, a process formalised by the National Library of Scotland Act 1925.
In 1928, Grant donated a further substantial sum to construct a new library building. Work began in 1938 but was interrupted by the Second World War. The project resumed after the war and was finally completed in 1956.
Expansion as a Necessary Step
By the 1970s, the National Library of Scotland’s collection had expanded so much that space was once again becoming scarce. The need for new premises was urgent.
This led to the opening of another building on the south side of Edinburgh. Completed in two phases in 1989 and 1995, this expansion provided much-needed additional space for staff and storage.
The Library’s Enduring Significance
In 1999, funding for the Library was devolved to the Scottish Parliament, and the institution’s status and importance have continued to grow ever since. This is largely due to its incredible collection, as it is the guardian of countless priceless items, particularly its manuscripts.
A Close Call and a Cherished Artefact
Of course, over its long history, the National Library of Scotland has faced situations that could have had a devastating impact on the building and its collections. One such incident occurred on 26 February 2009, when a burst water main caused a flood in part of the building. Fortunately, the leak was contained quickly, and the damage was minimal.
However, 2009 also brought a much happier occasion: the opening of a new visitor centre. To mark the event, a rare artefact was put on public display: the last letter written by Mary, Queen of Scots.
The National Library of Scotland is, therefore, far more than just a centre for education and culture in Edinburgh. It is intrinsically linked not only to the history of the city and of Scotland, but to that of Great Britain as a whole. The items held in its collection are invaluable, both for the historical facts they contain and for their connection to the past, with many having been written by some of history’s most prominent figures, literally capturing their hand for posterity.
It is undeniable that the creation of the National Library of Scotland was a pivotal moment in Edinburgh’s cultural life, an event that permanently shifted the city’s landscape. The resulting rise in education and learning is the clearest proof of its enduring success.