National Library of Scotland will bring its centenary tour to Shetland Library next week, offering island communities a rare chance to engage with nationally significant collections.
The visit forms part of a nationwide programme marking 100 years of the National Library, taking highlights from its Edinburgh base to communities across Scotland.
Running from 12 to 15 May, the Shetland stop also aligns with the National Year of Reading, placing a focus on access, learning and cultural connection.
The tour will coincide with the Outwith exhibition at Shetland Museum and Archives, linking local history with wider national narratives.
Library staff will deliver a series of activities across the isles, including school sessions and community workshops in Yell and Bigton, alongside a visit to Bressay using the mobile library service.
The programme is designed to reach communities directly, rather than expecting them to travel, bringing expertise and collections into local spaces.
Catherine Jeromson said the visit offers a valuable opportunity for Shetland.
“We are very fortunate that the National Library of Scotland has chosen to visit Shetland as part of its centenary celebrations.
“Opportunities like this don’t come around often, and it is incredibly valuable for our communities to engage directly with such nationally important collections and expertise.
“As well as their artefacts on loan to our partners at Shetland Museum & Archives, the team will share their knowledge, skills and resources through sessions across the isles.
“During the National Year of Reading, it is especially important to create opportunities for people to connect with reading, heritage and stories.
“We hope people of all ages will come along, get involved, and discover something new about Shetland’s place in Scotland’s wider story.”
Members of the public will also be able to attend a series of free sessions at Shetland Library on 14 May, covering topics from mapping Shetland’s place in Scotland to exploring digital archives and special collections.
Drop in activities will run throughout the afternoon and evening, offering something for all ages.
For many in Shetland, the visit represents a rare chance to experience national collections without leaving the islands.
It also highlights the growing focus on taking cultural resources beyond central institutions and into communities across Scotland.
The National Library of Scotland’s centenary tour will bring collections, expertise and activities to Shetland, offering island communities a rare opportunity to connect with the country’s cultural heritage close to home.
