Dunfermline is one of Scotland’s ancient capitals, boasting a long-standing history of being the seat of power in Scotland. It has an impressive industrial heritage, which you can absolutely enjoy at the Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries.
The Dunfermline Carnegie Library features an incredible gallery, a landscaped garden with a maze, and a museum that documents the remarkable royal history of the Kings and Queens who were born in Dunfermline and later buried in Dunfermline Abbey.
We’ll be covering various attractions to explore during your time at the Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries, including the incredible library itself, its galleries, museum and a gift shop you shouldn’t miss!
Important Details to Know
Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries in Dunfermline is one of the most significant cultural hubs in Scotland that everyone visiting Scotland should experience. There are many librarians and guides that can help you navigate with navigating the premises, including an adorable gift shop.
Accessibility of the Library & Galleries
At Carnegie Library and Galleries in Dunfermline, assistance dogs are welcome; all dogs must always stay on a lead. There are, however, four levels with many stairs. The first floor is wheelchair-accessible, and bathrooms are accessible on every floor.
How to Get There
The Carnegie Library and Galleries is situated near Dunfermline Abbey, you have many options to reach this destination. Here are some of the most efficient ways:
Car
Here’s how to reach the Carnegie Library and Galleries by car. If you’re coming from Crossford and Cairneyhill, turn into the first junction on your right as you enter Dunfermline. Continue down the road until you reach Moodie Street. Once there, turn left at the Andrew Carnegie Birthplace Museum. Follow the road around the corner and you’ll be at the corner of Abby Street and have parking options in front of the Dunfermline Abby.
Train
Get off at Dunfermline Town Station, walk through the underpass to your left, and you’ll come out on Comely Park. Your best bet would be to get a taxi. Otherwise, you’ll have to walk.
Bus
Stay on the national service bus until you get to Dunfermline Bus Station. However, you must walk or get a taxi to the library after the stop.
Opening Times
Carnegie Library Galleries in Dunfermline are open Monday to Sunday.
- The opening hours are from 10am to 5pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
- Thursday and Saturday are open from 10am to 4pm.
- Sundays are from 12pm to 4pm.
Is Entry Free?
Carnegie Library and Galleries offer free entry to museums, galleries, and children’s areas.
Attractions at the Dunfermline Carnegie Library & Galleries
Once you’ve arrived at the Carnegie Library Galleries in Dunfermline, you will have many things to do, from the local history reading room to the gallery spaces and the new museum. Here are the top things you shouldn’t miss:
The EAA building
The Carnegie Library and Galleries building in Dunfermline was declared the EAA building of the year in 2017. The beautiful modern building is stunning, with plenty to appreciate for architecture lovers. The dynamic range of shapes and colours is fit for a building that houses fine art.
Beautiful Landscaped Garden
You will find a beautiful landscaped garden with a small maze outside the new museum. It’s a perfect place to take a breather once you’ve had your fill of the amazing art exhibits available at the Dunfermline Library and Gallery.
The garden is regularly maintained, with dynamic seating that grants beautiful views out to the cut shrubs and trees. It’s an ideal spot to also have a spot of lunch after exploring the gallery.
Learn at the Main Library
The Carnegie Library in Dunfermline is where fascinating stories are retold and relived. With an impressive collection of books available to be taken out, the library also includes a hub of computers with engaging computer games for children and adults alike. The Carnegie Library Galleries are beautiful and worth a stroll through – you may just find your next favourite novel!
Explore the Children’s Library
The Carnegie Library also features a new children’s library with a play area and various books that engage young and growing minds. At the computer hub in the main library, there are engaging computer games that children are welcome to play and learn through during their visit.
You can look at a few Dunfermline Carnegie library photos online to know what to expect when bringing your children here.
The Heritage Quarter Galleries
Galleries at Dunfermline Carnegie Library feature a rich history of exhibition galleries from Scottish painters and artists. The impressive art gallery spaces have high ceilings to accommodate exhibitions, with the third Dunfermline Carnegie Gallery space being intimate and smaller for a closer experience with the art.
The Galleries at Dunfermline Carnegie Library feature beautiful art that’s always changing, featuring newer artists or returning artists featuring their work. Exhibition galleries have seen historical exhibitions with royal incorporation of intimate and personal art.
The Museum Diving Into Dunfermline’s Past
The Heritage Quarter features a new museum covering Dunfermline’s remarkable royal history. In remembrance of one of Scotland’s ancient capitals, the museum showcases the impressive industrial heritage of Dunfermline’s past. The Dunfermline Museum and Art Gallery has a deep royal incorporation and is where all the fascinating stories are retold of every royal born and buried in Dunfermline.
Some of the art featured includes:
- James VI and I as a Youth painted by Arnold Bronckhorst during 1566–1586
- Robert Burns statue created by Colin Hunter McQueen during 1759–1796
- James VI and I during 1566–1625 as the King of Scotland, England and Ireland
- Robert Forrest statue created by Tam o’ Shanter during 1791–1852
The museum also features an extensive heritage quarter with an entire timeline of Dunfermline, from its beginning as a seat of power in 1057 until today.
The Queen Anne Room
The Queen Anne Room is a space that’s available for hire on the fourth floor of the Dunfermline Carnegie. Perfect for book clubs and personal meetups in a quiet space close to books and an incredible coffee shop. You can explore the Queen Anne room through the virtual tour as well.
Experience the Reading Room
The Dunfermline Carnegie Library has an incredible local history reading room where you can learn about family history and the history of your house, street and town. This quiet space also functions as a study area with power sockets for your laptop and phone.
Rest at The Granary Cafe
Just inside the Carnegie Library and Galleries building, near the library and new museum, you will find a welcoming mezzanine café. You can see the menu online before you go to pick out your choice of sandwiches, scones, or cakes. It’s a cosy and comfortable space that’s perfect if you’re thirsty or hungry.
The Gift Shop
There is also an adorable gift shop with various plaques, teddies, books, magnets, and other accessories to make your visit to the Andrew Carnegie Dunfermline Library and Galleries even more memorable whenever you open your fridge.
The Dunfermline Carnegie Library and Galleries is a fantastic experience for the whole family. Look at the incredible library, galleries, and museums on your next visit to Dunfermline.
More Scottish Galleries to Visit
- Aberdeen Art Gallery
- An Lanntair Arts Centre
- Compass Gallery
- Gallery of Modern Art
- Hunterian Art Gallery
- Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
- Jupiter Artland
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Kirkcudbright Gallery
- McManus Art Gallery
- National Galleries Scotland: Modern
- National Galleries Scotland: National
- National Galleries Scotland: Portrait
- Perth Museum & Art Gallery
- Pier Arts Centre
- Royal Scottish Academy
- Stills Gallery
- Talbot Rice Gallery
- The Burrell Collection
- The Fruitmarket Gallery
- The Modern Institute