Advocates Library

Introduction

The Advocates Library, nestled in Edinburgh’s Old Town, stands as a testament to Scotland’s legal tradition and intellectual heritage. Established in the 1680s by the Faculty of Advocates, it has served as a vital resource for legal professionals and scholars, while also playing a central role in the city’s cultural life. With its origins dating back to 1682 and its official opening in 1689, the library has been associated with notable figures such as James Boswell, Sir Walter Scott, David Hume, and Adam Smith. Its collections were rapidly expanded by legal deposit rights granted in the early 18th century, entitling it to copies of every book published in Britain and Ireland.

Located beneath Parliament House on the Royal Mile, the Advocates Library is not only a repository of historic texts and manuscripts, but also an architectural gem designed by William Henry Playfair. While it primarily functions as a working law library for the Faculty of Advocates, it occasionally opens its doors to the public for special events, guided tours, and exhibitions, particularly during Scotland’s Doors Open Days. This guide provides an in-depth overview of the library’s history, significance, collections, visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips, ensuring that every prospective visitor can make the most of their experience at one of Edinburgh’s most fascinating landmarks.

For the latest updates, always refer to the National Library of Scotland and the Faculty of Advocates official websites.

Foundation and Early Development

The Advocates Library was founded in the early 1680s to serve the Faculty of Advocates, Scotland’s professional body for barristers. It officially opened in 1689 and was intended as a resource for legal professionals needing access to essential texts and scholarly works (National Library of Scotland). Following a fire in 1700 that destroyed its original building, the collection was quickly relocated to the Laigh Hall beneath Parliament House, ensuring its preservation (Books and Borrowing Project).

Growth of the Collection and Legal Deposit Rights

The 1710 Copyright Act granted the Advocates Library the right to claim a copy of every book published in Britain, leading to a significant expansion of its holdings. By the end of the 18th century, the collection featured over 47,000 volumes spanning law, literature, history, science, and the arts (Books and Borrowing Project).

Architectural Evolution and Social Importance

The library’s physical space was enhanced throughout the 18th century, with notable redecorations in 1772 and the architectural contributions of William Henry Playfair in the 1830s. Beyond its role as a repository, the library served as a hub for intellectual discourse and social interaction among advocates and scholars (Books and Borrowing Project).

Role in Scottish Intellectual Life

During the Scottish Enlightenment, the Advocates Library was a focal point for intellectual exchange, attracting figures like David Hume, James Boswell, and Sir Walter Scott. It was not only vital for legal research but also housed manuscripts, prints, and antiquities, making it central to the city’s cultural and scholarly life (Books and Borrowing Project).

Transition to the National Library of Scotland

In 1925, the Faculty of Advocates gifted its non-legal collections to the nation, leading to the founding of the National Library of Scotland. The Advocates Library remains the primary legal library for the Faculty, while its historic collections form the core of the National Library’s holdings (National Library of Scotland).

Collections at the Advocates Library

Legal and Non-Legal Holdings

The library boasts a comprehensive collection of Scottish and European legal texts, including the unique Session Papers—pleadings submitted to Scotland’s supreme civil court (Books and Borrowing). Its non-legal collections (prior to 1925) encompassed philosophy, history, literature, theology, and heraldry, as well as rare books and manuscripts acquired through notable bequests like that of Charles Areskine (Books and Borrowing).

Special and Gaelic Manuscripts

The Advocates Library once held an exceptional collection of Gaelic manuscripts, now part of the National Library of Scotland’s manuscript collections (NLS Gaelic Manuscripts). Borrower registers from the 18th century highlight the rich intellectual and social networks that flourished around the library.

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

The Advocates Library is primarily a working law library and not open to the public on a daily basis. Public access is granted during special events such as Scotland’s annual Doors Open Days (usually in late September) and select lectures or exhibitions (Doors Open Days).

• Typical Doors Open Days Hours: 10:00–15:15 (check each year for specific dates and times)

Tickets and Entry

• Booking: Tickets for public openings are available online via Eventbrite and are limited; advance booking is highly recommended.
• Entry: All visitors must pass through Scottish Courts security at the Parliament House entrance, with airport-style screening.

Location and Access

• Address: Parliament House, George IV Bridge, Edinburgh, EH1 1RF
• Public Transport: Bus (Victoria Street, Old Town); Train (Edinburgh Waverley, 7-minute walk); Tram (Princes Street, 9-minute walk) (Moovit)

Accessibility

• Level access and hearing loops are available in some areas. Due to the building’s historic nature, some sections may be less accessible—contact the library or event organizers ahead of your visit (Edinburgh Museums).

Guided Tours and Events

• Guided tours are offered during public openings, lasting about 30 minutes, and cover the main reading rooms, historic collections, and architectural features (Doors Open Days).
• Group size is limited to protect the working environment; photography is generally restricted.

Travel Tips and Nearby Attractions

• Combine Your Visit: Explore nearby sites such as St Giles’ Cathedral, the National Museum of Scotland, and the Writers’ Museum.
• Dining: Numerous cafés and restaurants are located along the Royal Mile and George IV Bridge—reservation recommended during busy periods (Happy to Wander).
• Security: Be prepared for security screening; large bags and prohibited items are not allowed.
• Dress Code: Smart casual is recommended, as you may be near active courtrooms.

Notable Figures

The library’s history is intertwined with eminent figures like James Boswell, who served as curator, and Sir Walter Scott, who captured its Gothic atmosphere in his writings. David Hume and Adam Smith were among the Enlightenment thinkers who frequented its halls (Books and Borrowing).

Preservation and Legacy

The Advocates Library is an enduring symbol of Scotland’s commitment to justice, scholarship, and culture. Its collections, architectural beauty, and pivotal role in the Scottish Enlightenment are preserved for future generations, both onsite and through digitized catalogues (National Library of Scotland).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Advocates Library open to the public year-round?
No, public access is mainly during Doors Open Days and select special events.

How can I book a visit?
Tickets for public openings are available via Eventbrite. Legal professionals and researchers may arrange appointments through the Faculty of Advocates.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, during public events and Doors Open Days.

Is the building accessible for wheelchair users?
Level access and hearing loops are available in some areas. Contact the library in advance for details.

Can I take photographs inside?
Photography is generally restricted to protect rare materials and the privacy of users.

Plan Your Visit

For the latest information on visiting hours, tickets, tours, and events, consult the Faculty of Advocates website and the Doors Open Days page.

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