Library events
Our calendar page lists details of one-off events for adults hosted by libraries.
For details of regular events such as book groups and children's activities at a specific library visit the library's page or follow them on Facebook.
In the past we've hosted authors such as Val McDermid, Maggie O'Farrell and Ian Rankin. Watch our videos on these events on our YouTube channel.
January 2025
Bletchley Park, a talk by Derek Douglas
Derek Douglas of Colinton Local History Society takes us into the story of Bletchley Park.
Monday 27 January from 6.30 to 7.30pm
Fraser Room
Oxgangs Library
343 Oxgangs Road North
EH13 9LY
Book your free ticket online or contact the library on 529 5548 for more information.
February 2025
Artists’ books workshops with Susie Wilson – Scenes from Edinburgh - Forecast
Forecast: a change in the weather
This workshop will use the changing weather of Scotland and, in particular, Edinburgh, as the starting point. Words, text and weather symbols will be used to make inserts for a folded pocket book.
One of a series of four workshops using the book form as a way to interpret the City of Edinburgh in celebration of the city’s 900th anniversary. This precipitous city, next to the sea with ever changing weather, is the starting point and inspiration for four different book structures. In each workshop, participants will be introduced to both book form and simple methods of printmaking to make content. Each participant will leave with a book. No experience needed. Suitable for age 18 upwards.
Saturday 1 February from 10.30am to 1pm
George Washington Browne Room
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine with George Laird
George Laird is a 4th year student at the University of Edinburgh, who specialises in jazz. A multi-instrumentalist, he enjoys playing french horn in orchestras, guitar, and bass in jazz and pop ensembles. However, his main mode of expression is the piano, and he is always delighted to share some improvisation and interpretation either solo or with other musicians. Initially a student of classical performance, he now enjoys combining traditional pieces with the more alternative and unpredictable nature of jazz. George will appear with some guests and they will give a programme of new and more traditional jazz favourites.
Saturday 15 February at 1.00pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
March 2025
Music on the Mezzanine with Geek Musica
Geek Musica's mission is to share the beauty of classical music with as many people as possible by performing classical music through the lens of video games, television and film, and especially to inspire aspiring musicians of every age to meaningful careers in the classical music arena. Their performance at Music on the Mezzanine will consist entirely of music from the Tolkien universe - Lord of the Rings and the Hobbit!
Saturday 1 March at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
Music on the Mezzanine with performers to be confirmed
Saturday 15 March at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
Music on the Mezzanine with The Outros
The Outros are a dynamic female three-part harmony group known for their unique spin on a wide range of genres, from soul and rock to pop and indie. They first came together at the Phoenix Soul and Gospel Choir, where they debuted as a trio in 2023. Despite their relatively short time together, their bond (both musical and personal) is undeniable. Prepare to be swept away by their lush, intricate harmonies and ethereal arrangements.
Saturday 29 March at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
April 2025
Music on the Mezzanine with Wesley Hua and Ciaran McKinven
Wesley Hua is a classical guitarist. He is a 3rd year music student at the University of Edinburgh. Alongside performance, Wesley has spent time composing a range of music, including chamber music, orchestral music, and choral music. He has enjoyed teaching music and taking part in community music. During the summer, he would spend time in his hometown giving lessons and arranging some traditional Chinese songs into guitar ensembles.
Ciaran McKinven, originally from Edinburgh is a classical guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. His main musical interest is composition and songwriting.
Saturday 12 April at 1pm - Wesley Hua and Ciaran McKinven
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
Music on the Mezzanine with Ed Chris White
Fusion violinist Ed White is joined by Senegalese singer-songwriter and guitarist Sylvan Ayité, percussionist Eilijah Ayité and bassist Greg Lawrence to present a medley of original and cross-cultural music blending African, Arabic, European and Indian elements.
Saturday 26 April at 1pm - Ed Chris White
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
May 2025
Music on the Mezzanine with Ben Kearsley
Join solo guitarist, Ben Kearsley for wonderful music from the Harry Lime Theme and Classical Gas, to Lennon and McCartney and Flamenco passion.
Saturday 10 May 2025 at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
Music on the Mezzanine with Vintage Chorus
The Vintage Chorus is an informal Community Choir bringing together older people 'with time on their hands and a song in their heart'. They sing a selection of songs ranging from traditional folksong to show tunes, and whatever else they fancy in between!
Saturday 24 May at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
June 2025
Music on the Mezzanine with SoulMelodica
SoulMelodica, is a neoclassical band bringing together three passionate musicians, Bruno (handpan), Ching (violin) and Giuseppe (classic guitar). They are united by a shared vision to foster connections between people and their deepest emotions. With each performance, they invite you to embark on a transformative journey of the soul and mind, guided by the evocative melodies and harmonies that define their music.
Saturday 7 June 2024 at 1pm
Music Library, Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.
Make Music Day
Make Music Day will be a programme of music from early to late, with performances from guests old and new. The full programme will be released nearer the day.
Saturday 21 June
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Free event, contact the Music Library for more information.