What’s on at Innerpeffray
The Library runs events throughout the year: exhibitions from the collection, talks and workshops inspired by the Library, and music and social events to raise funds for running costs and special projects. Find all the dates for your diary and a downloadable copy of our Footnotes newsletter on this page.
If you are not able to visit us, we have a selection of videos to enjoy from your armchair on our website, bringing alive the collection with our Keeper of Books and Volunteers.
For tickets: Book online via the links given below, or tel. 01764 652819 / email info(at)innerpeffraylibrary.co.uk
Dates for Your Diary
| Wed 14th Oct, 7pm | The Ted Powell Lecture: The World of Scotch Whisky with Richard White. A personal overview of Scotch Whisky – how it is made, the different types and styles, how the worldwide market is evolving, and experiences of selling it in over 50 countries around the world from Canada to Vietnam to Malawi. Tickets £10, members of the Friends free, but please book. Tickets will be available soon. |
| Thurs 29th Oct, 7pm | The Law and Criminal Insanity: Sheriff Principal Gillian Wade KC. In 2026, the Library was delighted to add two pocket watches with connections to the Drummond family to its collection. One of these also bears a historic connection to the first legal case which defined the defence of insanity in English law in 1843. Tickets £10, available to book soon. |
| Fri 6 & Sat 7 Nov, 10am-4pm | Innerpeffray Festive Fayre. A chance to browse unique, bookish gifts inspired by the Library’s collection in the Schoolroom at Innerpeffray. A range of carefully curated arts and crafts by local artisans will also be available, so come prepared to shop! |
| Sun 15th Nov, 7pm | Nunkie Theatre presents Dead Men’s Eyes: Ghost Stories by M.R. James. Master storyteller Robert Lloyd Parry of Nunkie Theatre returns for another night of pleasing terror. Two tales of the restless dead, by the master of the English ghost story. Suitable for ages 14+. This performance begins promptly at 7pm – no late entry. Tickets £20, book here. |
2026 Exhibition – Signs of the Times
Our exhibition in 2026 explores the myriad uses of signs and symbols within the books of our collection. From books on mysterious subjects such as heraldry, emblems and allegory, to the history of printers’ marks and fine decorative bindings, this exhibition will be a real visual delight.
Download our latest newsletter below:
Browse the Books : Library of Innerpeffray Catalogue Launch
Scotland’s first, free, public lending library was delighted to launch its new catalogue in 2025. Join our team and our special guests Richard Ovenden, Bodley’s Librarian, and author Sir Alexander McCall Smith for an introduction to Innerpeffray and its collections, a short guide to searching the catalogue and a chance to ask questions about the collection and the catalogue. Watch the launch recording here.
Innerpeffray’s collection includes rare books from the founding of the Library in 1680 including around 500 books from Founder’s collection and many more added in the 18th century when the new library building was established. There are novels and journals bought in the 19th century, as well as more recent additions. The catalogue will enable you to search, for the first time, the Scottish Collection of first editions donated by Janet Burns Saint Germain in 2013.
Although you can’t borrow books at Innerpeffray any more, all books in the collection and exhibitions are available to read, so please do ask if you have an interest in a particular subject. Only our very fragile books are exceptions to this and our guides are always happy to assist.
In the schoolroom
Free entry, open during usual Library opening hours. Self-service Teas, Coffees and Hot Chocolate available, and pre-loved books for sale (unstaffed, with an honesty box system). Please note the schoolroom may be closed to accommodate private bookings and events, do call to check to avoid disappointment.
Private Bookings, Weddings, Special Events
If you would like to hold a private event at the Library, Schoolroom or both please do get in touch. We are delighted to hold book launches, weddings, birthday treats and private tours outwith opening hours.