Special Collections

About our special collections

Explore rare and remarkable records from across Fife.

Discover unique materials that bring our past to life.

Our specialist collections offer a deeper look into Fife’s history. From rare books and manuscripts to photographs, slides, pamphlets and personal papers, these resources help you explore the stories and people that shaped our communities.

Some materials can be viewed online, while others can be explored at our Local Studies venues or Archives Search Room.

Discover our online collections

Key special collections

Explore standout collections preserved across our libraries and heritage centres.

George Reid collection

A rare library of exquisite books, medieval manuscripts and decorated books of hours collected by Dunfermline-born George Reid.

Explore George Reid collection

Murison Burns collection

A major collection of books by and about Robert Burns, collected by John Murison and preserved for the people of Dunfermline.

Explore Murison Burns collection

Sarah Tytler collection

A curated collection of novels and non‑fiction by Cupar-born author Henrietta Keddie (1827–1914), known as Sarah Tytler.

Explore Sarah Tytler collection

George Normand Magic Lantern slide collection

A unique set of magic lantern slides capturing early‑20th‑century life in and around Cupar, created by local postmaster and entertainer George Normand.

Explore George Normand Magic Lantern slide collection