Paper Trails is a five-year initiative launched in June 2025 supporting Edinburgh’s libraries as creative community hubs bringing year-round author events, creative workshops, and book distributions directly into neighbourhoods across Edinburgh.
As part of the programme, author Irvine Welsh links up to the Muirhouse library this February as the Edinburgh International Book Festival (EIBF) brings the Trainspotting author and some other of Scotland’s biggest literary names directly into the heart of North Edinburgh. These will include Val McDermid, Doug Johnstone, Claire Mitchell, Zoe Venditozzi, Maisie Chan and former Children’s Laureate Joseph Coelho OBE.
Welsh will appear digitally to discuss his Edinburgh roots and literary career to young people sitting in the same library that helped shape his love of reading decades ago, marking a significant homecoming for the highly successful writer and filmmaker.
Welsh said “I’m joining remotely, but it still feels like I’m back in the room that first lit the fuse for me. Muirhouse gave me a quiet seat, a friendly word and a shelf full of new worlds—that’s all it takes to set a life on a different course. It’s brilliant to see Paper Trails investing in these spaces so every young person here can feel that same jolt of inspiration.”
Librarian at Muirhouse Library, Tony Stewart, said “We see every day the impact and benefit for our users and the community, in having access to a safe and welcoming space filled books, activities and a team dedicated to helping in any way we can, and of course, a good book recommendation. We are very excited to be able to work with EIBF and Paper Trails to bring top class authors right to our community’s doorstep and provide some inspiration for any budding authors in the Muirhouse area, maybe even the next Irvine Welsh…”
The February programme will distribute over 500 free books to children attending events that is part of the festival’s five-year commitment to supporting Edinburgh’s libraries as creative community hubs.
Programme dates & details:
Claire Mitchell & Zoe Venditozzi: How to Kill a Witch
Wednesday 4th February @ 6pm — North Edinburgh Arts
An exploration of Scotland’s witch-trial history from the hosts of the popular Witches of Scotland podcast. Mitchell and Venditozzi uncover the brutal reality behind historical persecution.
Val McDermid: Winter Crime
Monday 9th February @6pm — North Edinburgh Arts
Scotland’s ‘Queen of Crime’, who rarely appears in intimate community settings,
discusses her latest Karen Pirie thriller Silent Bones and her new memoir Winter.
Doug Johnstone: 20 Years in the Making
Wednesday 11th February@ 6pm — North Edinburgh Arts
The bestselling crime writer of Edinburgh-set thrillers reflects on two decades of literary success ahead of his landmark 20th novel.
Irvine Welsh: Writing Edinburgh
Thursday 26th February@ 6pm — Muirhouse Library
In a special remote appearance, Welsh will discuss how Muirhouse and Edinburgh shaped his groundbreaking literary voice, followed by audience Q&A.
Maisie Chan: Family Fun
Wednesday 18th February @2–3pm — Muirhouse Library
A half-term celebration of stories and creativity for families. Every child attending receives a free book to take home.
Schools Event: Joseph Coelho OBE — Poetry Alive!
Wednesday 11th February, @10.30–11.15am — Muirhouse Library
A poetry workshop from the former Children’s Laureate (2022-24). Local primary school pupils will receive free books and participate in creative writing activities.
All events are free with advance booking recommended via https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/muirhouse-library
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 