Joy of Spines
Spoken Word

Joy of Spines

Graeme Hawley, Head of Published Collections, National Library of Scotland • Amateur Company

45 minutes•Boardroom
A tour of the National Library of Scotland in 300 book spines. Underneath the streets of the Old Town are 50 miles of the library’s shelving, storing half of our 60 million items. But if you think this is a story of books, magazines, and manuscripts, you are only halfway there. This is a story about you. This slideshow of hundreds of book spines not only reveals the broad and deep collecting practices of the National Library of Scotland, but also tells the story of who we are as a species.

About Graeme Hawley, Head of Published Collections, National Library of Scotland

Graeme Hawley, Head of Published Collections at the National Library of Scotland, presents a tour of the library told through 300 book spines. Beneath the streets of the Old Town lie 50 miles of the library's shelving, storing half of its 60 million items. This slideshow of hundreds of book spines reveals the breadth of the library's collecting practices while also telling a wider story about who we are as a species.

Why see this show?

A free, thought-provoking spoken word event that uses book spines as a lens on human culture and identity. Unexpected, quietly fascinating and unlike anything else at the Fringe.

Event Details

Tuesday 5 - Friday 8 August 2025

All performances at 14:00

4 performances

45 minutes

Boardroom

George IV Bridge

View on map

1 performers

Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025

Ticket Price

Free

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the event?

The event runs for 45 minutes.

Where is it on?

The event is at Boardroom as part of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Is it free?

Yes, this event is free to attend.

What is the age guidance?

This event is suitable for audiences aged 16 and over.

What will I see?

A slideshow of hundreds of book spines from the National Library of Scotland, with commentary exploring the library's collecting practices and what the collection reveals about human identity.

Are there any content warnings?

No specific content warnings have been noted for this event.

About This Performance

Joy of Spines is a spoken word performance at Boardroom during Edinburgh Festival 2025. Running for 45 minutes, this show is part of the world's largest arts festival, bringing together performers and audiences from across the globe.

Experience the magic of live performance at Edinburgh Festival. Each show offers something unique and memorable.

Venue: Boardroom

Boardroom is one of Edinburgh's Festival venues, hosting a variety of performances throughout August. Located in the heart of the city, the venue is accessible by public transport and within walking distance of other Festival locations.

Tips for Attending

  • •Read recent reviews for audience reactions
  • •Check venue accessibility if needed
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  • •Download venue apps for digital tickets

Booking Information

Ticket Prices: From £null

Age Guidance: 16+

Content Warnings: None

Book early to avoid disappointment. Popular shows sell out quickly during Edinburgh Festival.

Part of Edinburgh Festival 2025

Edinburgh Festival transforms Scotland's capital into the world's leading cultural destination every August. With thousands of performances across hundreds of venues, the festival offers unparalleled choice for culture lovers.Joy of Spines represents the creative spirit that makes Edinburgh Festival unique.

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