Main Library
The Main Library is the largest of Edinburgh University's Libraries.
Please see Library Services Update 2020-2021 for current service updates.
The Main Library holds the primary collections in arts, humanities, social sciences, medicine and informatics.
It also houses the Library's general collections of books and periodicals, older books in all subjects, most of the special collections of rare books and manuscripts, the University archives and the Lothian Health Service Archive.
Location
Main Library, George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9LJ
Map: Campus map
https://www.ed.ac.uk/maps/maps?building=main-university-library
Access and opening hours
Please note that access to all libraries is currently restricted to University of Edinburgh Students, Staff and Official Visitors, and NHS Lothian Staff.
Full details on using library and other centrally managed study spaces are available on the Study Spaces website.
Please note: when using these study spaces, you must pre-book, adhere to 2 metre physical distancing and wear a face covering at all times.
Collections and their locations
You can see the most up-to-date location of the collections using the link below.
As part of the Main Library work over the summer to create additional study spaces for Library users, the existing New Journals and New Books displays on the first floor has been removed.
New journal issues and newspapers are available within their sequences on the 4th floor and new books are interfiled directly into the book sequences on the 2nd and 3rd floors.
Study space
As a result of the physical distancing measures required in light of Covid-19, there will be fewer study spaces available. In order to access centrally managed study spaces, you must book the space in advance. See the study space webpages to find out more.
Help using the Library
EdHelp service desk
-
Ground Floor
- Main Library
- Edinburgh
- EH8 9LJ
Reporting noise and other inconsiderate behaviour in the Main Library
Please note that the anonymous report form is no longer available but you may report any problems to the Main Library EdHelp service desk.
Lockers
As a result of hygiene measures required in light of Covid-19, lockers are not available for use.
British Sign Language support
- A video relay service is available, enabling British Sign Language users to contact public bodies and vice-versa.
This service operates from 8am to 12 midnight, 7 days a week.
Please visit https://contactscotland-bsl.org for full details.
Related Links
A guide to Main Library classification schemes and shelfmarks
Brief guide to location of collections in Main Library
Main Library floor plan: lower ground floor
Main Library floor plan: ground floor
Main Library floor plan: 1st floor
Main Library floor plan: 2nd floor
Main Library floor plan: 3rd floor
Main Library floor plan: 4th floor