The Leighton, the oldest purpose-built library in Scotland, was founded on the collection of Robert Leighton, Bishop of Dunblane, 1661-1670, later Archbishop of Glasgow, 1670-1674.In his will, Leighton left a sum of money for the building of the library for use by the clergy of Dunblane diocese.

The library is situated close by Dunblane Cathedral, part of which dates from 1240. The library was built in part from fallen stone from the nearby ruined Bishop's Palace. The total cost of the library was £ 162 2/6d. Leighton had retired to Sussex, where he died, and his books were transported by horse and cart and by sea before being installed in the completed library. The building is a two storey construction with the books situated in a single room on the first floor accessed by the original external staircase. The lower floor, or undercroft, originally functioned as the living quarters for the first librarian.

Still to be seen in the library are "Twelve chairs of turkie red lether", part of the original bequest. Under the guidance of volunteer custodians, visitors are allowed carefully to handle and inspect volumes from this collection, using the gloves provided. We hope that you will enjoy your visit both to this website and to the fascinating collection and building of the Leighton Library.

Click on the Play button below to see a short film about the Leighton Library.

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