Our building
‘A Hidden Gem’
Welcome to our award-winning building.
Designed by Malcolm Fraser Architects, the Scottish Poetry Library building is a special place, a relaxing haven full of light and quiet beauty – living and breathing poetry in all its forms. It is a jewel of the Edinburgh UNESCO City of Literature, drawing visitors from home and abroad.
Drop in for a few minutes or for a few hours…
The fully accessible building was supported by the National Lottery through the Scottish Arts Council (now Creative Scotland). It has won several awards, and was shortlisted for Channel 4's Building of the Year 2000.
Some of the things you’ll find when you visit
- general reading and study areas, with free Wi-Fi access
- easy access to friendly librarians and other staff
- our international collections
- exhibitions
- commissioned artwork
- our poetry shop
- children’s area
- a unique venue for events
Whether you’re interested in architecture, just visiting the city, or whether you are a reader or poet, or a student or researcher, or a teacher or librarian – everyone is very welcome. Just pop in to wander and browse, or let us help you with your poetry-related needs.
I look on this building as a poem that we've made together, composed from light, view, rhythm, embrace, movement, gathering, colour, texture and metaphor to express the joy of poetry, and optimism for its future within our culture.
Malcolm Fraser, Architect
Tours
We are always very happy to give individual or group tours. We can tailor these to your requirements; for example, we can provide tours for architecture students or creative writing groups, librarians and other professionals, teachers and school groups, or tourist groups.
Hiring the building
Our building can be hired for all sorts of occasions:
- book launches: poetry, short stories, novels, pamphlets
- private parties: birthdays, anniversaries, a handfasting...
- corporate entertainment: receptions; pre-concert drinks
- poetry readings
- musical events
- community group meetings
We welcome inquiries of all kinds and do our best to meet your expectations and requirements. Email reception@spl.org.uk for further information.