The 17th century Leighton Library in Dunblane has now reopened after extensive restoration work to the building.
The Leighton Library is founded on the personal library of Archbishop Robert Leighton (1611-1684), who bequeathed some 1500 books and pamphlets to the Cathedral of Dunblane. A library building was erected between 1684 and 1688 in order to house the books for the use of the local clergy. In 1734 the library became one of the first subscription libraries in Scotland and thrived until around 1870. Leighton’s collection of books was supplemented by 18th and 19th century additions.
The collection covers a variety of subject areas, including history and politics (particularly 17th century), theology, medicine, travel, language and the occult. There is also much to interest the book historian. The collection is listed in the University Library catalogue, LibrarySearch, as well as in a separate Leighton Library catalogue.
Thanks to an agreement with the Leighton Library Trust, researchers may consult books from the Leighton Library at the University Library. Please email archives@stir.ac.uk, allowing at least a week before expecting to consult the books.
The Leighton Library building is also open to visitors Monday – Saturday, 11am-4pm from May to September.
For more information see https://libguides.stir.ac.uk/archives/leighton and the Leighton Library’s own website.
Helen Beardsley
Honorary Librarian, Leighton Library