Library Services | National Museums Scotland

Library Services | National Museums Scotland
Skip to main content
Our library services support the research and learning needs of Museum staff, visitors, and the wider external research community.
National Museums Scotland has the largest museum library collection in Scotland. Our library services support the research and learning needs of Museum staff, visitors and the wider external research community.  There are two libraries which have public access - the Research Library in the National Museum of Scotland (our main reading room) and the National War Museum Library.
The founding library collection dates back 235 years with its roots in the collections of the
Society of Antiquaries of Scotland
. It is now a modern research library with collections and services reflecting the strength and variety of the Museum’s collections and research directions.
Library collection
A unique collection which is particularly strong in archaeology and decorative arts, including over 2000 rare and antiquarian books.
Explore the collection
Research Library
Our main reading room on Level 3 of the National Museum of Scotland, adjacent to the Technology by Design gallery is open by appointment only on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and Wednesday afternoons.
Visit the Research Library
National War Museum Library
The National War Museum Library in Edinburgh Castle is open by appointment only.
Visit the War Museum Library
Browse our library catalogue
Find out more about individual books and journals we hold.
Browse the catalogue
Contact list of staff members
National Museums Scotland Library Services
Telephone
0131 247 4137
Email
library@nms.ac.uk
Other departments
Collections Services
Find out more
Natural Sciences
Find out more
Science & Technology
Find out more
Global Arts, Cultures & Design
Find out more
Scottish History & Archaeology
Find out more