Right here stands the Library Annexe. It is part of the National Library of Scotland. The Library Annexe plays a vital role in preserving Scotland’s literary heritage. Let’s delve into its story.
The National Library of Scotland we know today started as the Library of the Faculty of Advocates. It opened in 1689. The 1710 Copyright Act gave it the right to claim a copy of every book published in Britain. Over time, the library grew through purchases and legal deposits.
By the 1920s, maintaining the collection became too much for a private body. Sir Alexander Grant of Forres donated £100,000. This helped present the library’s contents to the nation. In 1925, an Act of Parliament officially created the National Library of Scotland.
Sir Alexander Grant gave another £100,000. This and government funding helped build a new library on George IV Bridge. Construction began in 1938. It was interrupted by World War II. The building was finally completed in 1956.
By the 1970s, space was running out. The library needed more room for its growing collections. The Causewayside Building, our Library Annexe, was the solution.
The Library Annexe opened in two phases in 1989 and 1995. The total cost was almost £50 million. It provided much-needed working space and storage.
The Library Annexe occupies a prominent site. It was once home to the Middlemass biscuit factory. Part of the factory was converted into an outhouse in December 1974. It housed the map room and less-used books.
Construction of the new building began in January 1984. It sinks 2.5 storeys below ground level. The Library Annexe houses the map library and the science library. It also has the Scottish Business Information Centre and staff offices. The building provides storage for copyright library demands.
The Library Annexe uses sandstone cladding from Newbigging quarry. The quarry reopened in June 1985 for this project. Glazed staircases, lift-shafts, and air-handling plants are featured. They evoke Scottish forms and the work of C R Mackintosh. This was influenced by Gillespie Kidd & Coia’s Robinson College, Cambridge.
The scale on the west side relates to Causewayside tenements and Salisbury Church. On the east side, it relates to Upper Gray Street villas. The glazing faces north to avoid UV damage. Scottish artists created artworks laminated into the window panels.
Phase 2, from 1991 to 1994, added a top floor. This floor has staff accommodation, a new common room, and a roof terrace. Andrew Merrylees, the architect, had his own practice. He was a partner of Sir Basil Spence, Glover and Ferguson for 15 years.
Today, the Library Annexe continues to serve its purpose. It stores and protects valuable collections. It supports the National Library of Scotland’s mission. The Library Annexe ensures access to knowledge for generations to come.