Event booking now available online
You can now browse our events calendar and book your place for our events online via our library catalogue. Membership is not required, all you need is a contact email address or phone number to secure your place.
‘Fantastically set’: Fantasy and the supernatural in Walter Scott’s poems
Wednesday 27 November, 6pm at Central Library
How were the themes of fantasy and the supernatural presented in the works of one of Scotland most influential writers – Walter Scott ,and how they are still relevant in fantasy writing today? Join Aberdeen City Libraries for this special discussion with researchers from the University of Aberdeen’s Walter Scott Research Centre to find out more.
Dr Natalie Tal Harries will explore Walter Scott’s presentations of the supernatural in his poetry, focusing on ‘The lay of the Last Minstrel’ and ‘The Lady of the Lake’ and how Scott’s method of incorporating ‘the Marvellous in poetry’ establishes some key principles which correspond with the approach of later fantasy writers.
Dr Anna Fancett will look at how themes such as a mysterious prophecy, a missing heir, a magic book aren’t just elements of modern fantasy, but were important parts of Walter Scott’s historical poems and novels and discuss the links between modern fantasy and early nineteenth century literature.
The Art of Breastfeeding with Jayne Joyce
Saturday 30 November, 11am at Central Library
Jayne Joyce, co-writer of 'The Art of Breastfeeding', will be in conversation with Emma Williams (NHS Grampian), discussing the latest edition of the book that has supported families for generations. The event will feature an audience Q&A so the team can share advice and guidance. Event supported by Le Leche League GB.
Celebrating Robert Tannahill of Paisley (1774-1810) by Fred Freeman
Saturday 30 November, 2.30pm at Central Library
Join Aberdeen City Libraries this St Andrews day with a special multimedia talk by Prof Fred Freeman with musical and fine art illustrations celebrating the life and work of Robert Tannahill.
Robert Tannahill of Paisley (1774-1810), near contemporary of Burns, was a weaver, a song-writer and poet who wrote over 100 songs of a quality comparable to Burns himself.
This 250th Anniversary Lecture marks the completion of Prof Freeman's monumental 5 CD series of The Robert Tannahill Songs. Moreover, the new set complements Fred's 12 volume Complete Songs of Robert Burns (Linn Records, 2003).
This talk will introduce the life and work of the weaver-poet, include illustrations of material from the recording project and explore the significance of Scotland musical traditions and the impact of Tannahill within our mutlicultural society.
Green Libraries Week
Join us in November for a series of talks curated by One Seed Forward and Aberdeen City Libraries with a focus on the climate and sustainability.
Bonsai For Beginners
Monday 25 November, 6pm at Central Library
Bonsai cultivation is known to improve mood, reduce stress and improve concentration. This special talk will show you hints and tips for successfully cultivating your own bonsai.
Memories Scotland Sessions
Reminiscence sessions open to older people and those of all ages affected by dementia, loneliness, social isolation, mental health or other conditions.
Sessions supported by Memories Scotland and the Scottish Library and Information Council.
An Aberdeen Christmas
Tuesday 26 November, 2.30pm at Cove Library
Tuesday 3 December, 2.30pm at Central Library
Come and take a festive trip with Aberdeen's ghosts of Christmas past!
Intellectual Property Advice Clinic Service: Protect Your Ideas - Virtual 1:1 Advice Clinic
Wednesday 11 December, Appointments available 2.50pm - 6.40pm.
Facilitated by Aberdeen Patlib Centre @ Aberdeen City Libraries. each confidential 1:1 virtual video or telephone consultation with a CIPA (Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys) registered attorney is completely free of charge & lasts approximately 30 minutes.
To book a Virtual Intellectual Property Advice consultation, please click on the button below to complete your request. Bookings can also be made by telephoning 01224 070707. Following your booking, a member of the Aberdeen Patlib team will be in touch via email with a request for further information. Please note that your advice clinic booking is not confirmed until we receive this information from you.
Lend and Mend Hub Activities
As part of a project with The Scottish Library & Information Council, Central Library has recently launched its ‘Lend and Mend Hub’, located in the Media Centre.
The hub features six sewing machines and an overlocker that will help the local community to repair, reuse, and upcycle everyday items, with free access for everyone to keep items in use for longer, rather than them being thrown away.
The team from Repair What You Wear Aberdeen are hosting a series of events within the Hub. For more information on these sessions, visit the Lend and Mend webpage.