Where are the National Galleries of Scotland Library Collections held?

Each of the three National Galleries of Scotland (the Scottish National Gallery, the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, and the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art) houses a reference library that supports research into the collections and covers a specific period of art history or subject area. For further details about the holdings of each library, see About the Collections.

How can I tell which Gallery holds the material I am interested in?

Each individual item record should identify the Location (e.g. Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art Library).

How do I access the Library Collections?

We have two dedicated research spaces, open by appointment, Monday to Friday. Please contact us directly to make an enquiry or book an appointment.

Reading Room at Modern Two
73 Belford Road
Edinburgh
EH4 3DS
+44 (0)131 624 6253
Modern2ReadingRoom@nationalgalleries.org

Library and Print Room at the Portrait
1 Queen Street
Edinburgh
EH2 1JD
+44 (0)131 624 6407
PortraitCollection@nationalgalleries.org

Is it possible to arrange a group visit?

Yes, please contact us to make arrangements. Numbers are limited due to space restrictions and appointments should be made at least two weeks in advance.

Do you have wheelchair access?

Yes, all galleries have wheelchair access. Please let us know your requirements when making your appointment.

Can I make copies of documents?

Copies can be made of some material. This is at the discretion of Archive & Library staff, please ask for details. There are modest charges for photocopies and scans of documents.

Can I take photographs of documents?

No, but it may be possible to arrange photography via the NGS Picture Library.

Can I use my laptop?

Yes, there are power outlets in the research spaces and there is also Wifi access.