During the 1960s and 1970s, the town centre of Dalkeith was modernised and renovated. The redevelopment programme included replacement of the local public library and provision of an arts centre in a newly constructed, single-storey building with a central garden patio. Dalkeith Arts Centre and the adjacent Dalkeith Library were formally opened in August 1973 by the Mayor of Jarnac, Dalkeith’s twin town in western France. Later the same year, Dalkeith & District Arts Guild was formed to promote a programme of exhibitions, musical performances and other arts events and activities. This voluntary organisation has continued these activities for the last 30 years. Dalkeith Arts Centre is also used by a number of other organisations which promote arts, cultural and heritage interests. All such events are normally open to the public.