Scottish Poetry Library

Firmly extinguishing any myth that poetry aficionados are beret-wearing posers or secluded eccentrics, the lovely Scottish Poetry Library staff are only too happy to tend to your every poetry need – be that helping you find something for a special occasion, or even digging up that poem you can only remember a single line from.

Hidden down an Edinburgh close, the library is housed in an award-winning building designed by architect Malcolm Fraser. The core focus is on contemporary Scottish poetry, but you'll also find the likes of good ol' Robert Burns, as well as poetry from all over the world. The library also hosts occasional readings and workshops, alongside promoting poetry events elsewhere in Scotland. It is free to join, free to peruse and free to take books out. An invaluable resource and cultural gem for readers and writers alike.