Edinburgh and Scottish Borders

SCONUL Access

Students and staff may be eligible to visit other university libraries in the UK. For more information please see the SCONUL Access website.

Other Public Libraries

There may be other libraries open and available for you to use. However, their opening hours may vary and visiting restrictions may apply. You can find information about some of these libraries below.

National Library of Scotland

Access to the The National Library of Scotland is available for Heriot-Watt University staff and students. The NLS is a legal deposit library receiving a copy of almost all books and periodicals published in the UK, plus many published abroad. It is a reference only library (items cannot be borrowed).

National Museums Scotland Library

The National Museums Scotland Library collection covers material from a range of subjects, including:

  • Scottish history and culture.
  • World-wide decorative and applied arts (including costume and fashion).
  • Natural sciences.
  • History of science and technology.

Access to the collection is reference only, and it is strongly encouraged that you make an appointment in advance. Only a small percentage of the collection is on open shelves, so we would advise that you check the online catalogue and contact the library in advance to make sure they have the material available for your visit.

Other Scottish Libraries