National Library’s birthday bash with Beano
The National Library of Scotland’s official birthday is fast approaching, with the 100th anniversary of its creation via an Act of Parliament falling on Thursday 7 August.
On that day, visitors to the National Library at George IV Bridge Edinburgh and Kelvin Hall in Glasgow will be given their own copy of a special edition centenary comic, created by Beano especially for this occasion. Until copies run out, that is!
National Librarian Amina Shah said:
“Beano is the longest running weekly comic created every week in Dundee for almost as long as we’ve been in existence. Beano is loved by kids and adults alike, alongside many iconic characters like Dennis, Gnasher, Minnie and Bananaman. We cannot think of a more appropriate and fun way to mark our official birthday.”
Craig Graham, Beano’s Director of Mayhem, said:
“100 years of the National Library of Scotland? That calls for maximum mayhem! It’s been a total joy to bring a bit of Beano mischief to such a brilliant milestone. We had a blast creating the story, and we hope visitors have just as much fun diving into it. The Bash Street Kids managed to get lost in the archives and luckily, no priceless manuscripts were harmed (we think!)”
Visitors on the day will also get the chance to meet special guest Dennis the Menace (who will be kept under the watchful eye of Library staff!).
The special Beano edition features the George IV Bridge building on the cover, while inside the comic readers will be treated to The Bash Street Kids’ visit to the National Library.
On the morning of Thursday 7 August the Library will give away 500 copies of the special edition Beano to lucky visitors at George IV Bridge, Edinburgh and Kelvin Hall, Glasgow. They will be given out on a first-come first-served basis. Visitors will also have the opportunity to sign a giant birthday card, which will be stored in the Library’s archives in perpetuity.
See our opening hours and plan your visit on our website.
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About the National Library of Scotland
The National Library of Scotland is the nation’s living memory – preserving the past, enriching the present, and inspiring current and future generations through access to knowledge, culture, and innovation. We chart the DNA of Scottish society by documenting, preserving and sharing precious collections that capture our past and present. We support education, promote inclusivity, empower informed citizenship, and contribute to the economic and social fabric of the nation. We strive to understand Scotland’s place in the world and to explore connections with our neighbours near and far. We reflect Scotland. Rich, diverse, unfiltered.
About Beano
Beano was first published in July 1938 and is still created every week in its original Dundee headquarters and printed in the UK. Beano Studios is a rebellious multi-media publishing, entertainment and creative business powered by data and insight. The Studio produces diverse content across TV and the award-winning Beano.com - as well as theatrical, live experiences, licensed products, and the legendary Beano comic and annual.