Membership
The rocks and scenery around Glasgow make it one of the finest regions in Britain from which to gain an understanding of geology, the science of the Earth.
The Geological Society of Glasgow was founded in 1858, and since that time has had a proud history of activity and achievement in the study of geology in Scotland. It is one of the senior scientific societies of the UK with many famous names, such as that of Lord Kelvin, listed as former presidents. Membership brings together the interests of both amateur and professional geologists. Enthusiastic beginners of all ages are especially welcome to join us.
Meetings
From October to May, a programme of illustrated lectures is presented by speakers specially chosen for their ability to interest and inform their audience at all levels.
Normally held on the second Thursday of each month, the meetings take place at 7.30pm in the Gregory Building, University of Glasgow, Lilybank Gardens. Non-members are always welcome to attend one of these meetings.
Annual highlights include:
- A celebrity lecture delivered by a geologist of international repute. Sponsored jointly by this Society and the Edinburgh Geological Society, the lecture alternates its venue between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
- Members' night, when members give short accounts of their current geological interests or travels, and display their recently acquired specimens.
All meetings are open to anyone who wishes to come along.
Publications
The Scottish Journal of Geology is a joint publication of the Glasgow and Edinburgh Societies. One volume, in two parts, is issued annually to Ordinary Members. The majority of papers in the journal relate to aspects of Scottish geology, although papers dealing with topics of wider interest may be included. Members may access the online version of the journal here.
All members receive:
- Circulars and newsletters throughout the year. These give details of the lecture, excursion and social programmes.
- The Society's annual Proceedings which contain reports of past meetings and field excursions, often with geological guides to the areas visited on some of the trips.
The Society publishes a series of local geological excursion guides. These and publications from other societies and the British Geological Survey are on sale, often at a discount to members, at the end of each of the monthly winter meetings. A list of publications currently available is sent to all new members.
Field Excursions
Field excursions are a particularly worthwhile activity of the Society. During the spring and summer months, day excursions are made to localities of geological significance under the guidance of a leader who has special knowledge of the area being visited. One excursion is held jointly with the Edinburgh Geological Society. Longer weekend, or week, excursions are also arranged. In recent years the Society has visited the NW Highlands, the Stonehaven Area, Southern Kintyre, Lorn and Mid Argyll and islands as diverse as Harris and Lewis, Gigha, Islay and Madeira.
Library
The Society's library, housed in the Gregory Building, University of Glasgow, contains a wide variety of general and advanced geological books, journals and excursion guides. All are available for borrowing. Members are also entitled to join the University Library as "Institutional Members" and to borrow books.
How to Join
Membership of the Society is open to all who are interested in geology. Membership is obtained simply by completing the appropriate membership form (Ordinary or Junior (under 25)) and paying the appropriate subscription. Should you wish to pay by standing order the appropriate form can be downloaded here. It would be financially advantageous to the Society if new (or existing) members were to complete a Gift Aid form downloadable here. Alternatively you can contact the Hon. Secretary, The Geological Society of Glasgow, c/o Gregory Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ by post, or come to a meeting (see our lectures page) and you will be able to join there with the help of the Hon. Secretary or the Membership Secretary.