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. on our YouTube channel.
August 2025
The Bombing of Edinburgh and Leith: 1939-1942
Another chance to enjoy an evening with writer and former Senior Police Officer, Tom Wood, as he explores the bombing of Edinburgh and Leith between 1939 and 1942.
When the Edinburgh Police Historical Society uncovered a rare 1944 document detailing German bombing raids on the city, it revealed a story often overlooked. Though not ‘Blitzed’ like London, Edinburgh was repeatedly attacked from October 1939 to 1942, and Tom Wood will share this history using original crime scene photographs from the City Police Archives.
Wednesday 13 August at 6pm
George Washington Browne Room
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine - Django’s Swing
Django's Swing kick off the Autumn season of Music on the Mezzanine. Django's Swing are an Edinburgh-based Gypsy Jazz Guitar duo, playing Gypsy swing in the style popularised by Django Reinhardt in Paris in the 1930s.
Saturday 30 August at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
September 2025
Music on the Mezzanine - Buskin Sharks
We'll be joined by the wonderful Buskin Sharks, playing a mixture of jazz standards, funk and re-workings of popular songs. If you like your jazz, Big Band style, come along!
Saturday 13 September at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine - Alex and Jane
Alex and Jane bring their middle-of-the-road range of classic pop to Central Library. Expect some country tunes, some humorous songs and an easy-going mixture of guitar and harmonies.
Saturday 27 September at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
October 2025
Music on the Mezzanine - U3A Ukulele Band
The musicians of the U3A Ukulele Band had little musical knowledge when they started playing together seven years ago. They now perform regularly in care homes, at markets and in festivals!
Saturday 11 October at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine - Christine Hurley Cello
Christine is a busy recitalist. She has chosen a programme for her visit which includes the Bach Cello Suite no. 2 and new work by the composer, Peter McCarthy, entitled, Ceum thar na mara (Step over the Sea).
Saturday 25 October at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
November 2025
Music on the Mezzanine - Bristo Community Concert Band
The Bristo Community Concert Band will bring the best in movie soundtracks, swing and big band tunes and some popular surprises. They also have a niche line in Star Trek humour...
Saturday 8 November at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine - The Accidentals
The Accidentals will share with us their love of the repertoire for the guitar with works from around the world and through the centuries.
Saturday 22 November at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
December 2025
Music on the Mezzanine - Edinburgh Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra
The Edinburgh Mandolin and Guitar Orchestra have a repertoire of light classical, film and world music drawn from many countries and traditions. The EMGO perform regularly throughout the year, led by their conductor, Michael Graham.
Saturday 6 December at 1pm
Mezzanine
Central Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine (in the foyer) - Simmerdim
Our concert on 13 December will be in the Central Library foyer where, on our staircase, the wonderful Simmerdim will perform a selection of seasonal music arranged for a cappella trio.
Saturday 13 December at 1pm
Central Library foyer
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG
Music on the Mezzanine (in Central Lending Library) - Little Big Horns
Little Big Horns will be making a return visit to play in the Central Lending Library to play a programme of saxed-up seasonal favourites.
Saturday 20 December at 1pm
Central Lending Library
George IV Bridge
EH1 1EG