The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) was founded in 1670 as a physic garden. It is now a world-renowned centre for plant science, horticulture and education and extends over four Gardens (Edinburgh, Benmore, Dawyck and Logan) boasting a rich living collection of plants.

The Archives contains RBGE's historical records as well as papers, photographs and other materials relating to associated individuals and organisations. The collection also includes documentation on the development of botanical science and horticulture in Edinburgh and internationally.

The RBGE Library is Scotland's national reference collection for specialist botanical and horticultural resources, and is one of this country's largest research libraries. The collection of more than 70,000 books and related materials is open to the public as a reference collection.