Writer hopes Innerpeffray Library’s spirit will inspire Halloween ghost story

An author is to spend a day writing a ghost story in Scotland’s oldest library.

Helen Grant, who wrote The Vanishing of Katharina Linden and The Glass Demon, will give the story its world premiere at Innerpeffray Library on Halloween night.

She will have spent the day penning the story among the books, some of which date back to the 17th Century. The library dates back to 1680 and is set beside a medieval chapel and graveyard.

“Innerpeffray Library has an amazingly inspiring atmosphere, I’m sure the ghosts will come and speak to me,” said Helen.

Innerpeffray Library, near Crieff, was founded when David Drummond, the 3rd Lord Madertie, allowed members of the public access to 400 books from his collection.

The books were at first located in the loft of St Mary’s Chapel and were moved into a purpose-built library house in 1762. The category A-listed library ceased lending in 1968 but visitors can still view the books.

Helen Grant will read the new story at Innerpeffray from 7pm on October 31. Tickets for this event are priced at £5 and can be booked from the library on 01764 652819.