On Crichton's Close, just off the Royal Mile, the Scottish Poetry Library is a purpose-built home for poetry, with books in languages from around the world, records and audio collections. Its quiet, cosy rooms pair wooden design with modern features, and displays include poetry and stories by Edinburgh children. Browse the shelves, listen to Robert Burns’s songs or look out for special events, including possible Fringe-season exhibitions. The library also has an outdoor patio and accessible facilities.
A poetry library off the Royal Mile
The Scottish Poetry Library is at 5 Crichton’s Close, on a quiet lane branching off the Royal Mile. It was purpose-built as a library for poetry. Inside, the atmosphere is quiet and cosy, with wooden design details and modern facilities.
The collection reaches beyond Scottish writing. You can browse poetry in different languages, including Turkish, Persian and Arabic, alongside books for adults and children. Records are also part of the collection, giving you another way to explore its holdings.
Books, recordings and community work
The library’s audio collection includes songs by Robert Burns. Displays also feature poetry and stories by children from Edinburgh, bringing local young writers into the library’s public space.
Special events take place here, including RainStations Rain-Co-Lab with Emma Alston Voice. The Fringe is a useful time to look for possible events or exhibitions. The library is open on weekdays, and its accessible facilities include a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating and restroom, as well as an assistive hearing loop.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Scottish Poetry Library?
It is at 5 Crichton’s Close in Edinburgh, on a quiet lane branching off the Royal Mile.
What can you see at the Scottish Poetry Library?
Browse poetry books in different languages, children’s books, records and audio collections. Displays include poetry and stories by Edinburgh children.
When is the Scottish Poetry Library open?
It is open Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 3 pm. It is closed on Friday and at weekends.
Is the Scottish Poetry Library wheelchair accessible?
It has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating and restroom, as well as an assistive hearing loop.
