Library of Birmingham
The Library of Birmingham is a striking modern building, opened in 2013, wrapped in an interlocking gold and blue-grey filigree facade that makes it one of the most photographed pieces of contemporary architecture in the city. Inside, it's built around a rotunda design with escalators rising through the floors to an outdoor terrace and Secret Garden that give good views over Birmingham.
Beyond the architecture, it holds the Shakespeare Memorial Room, an ornate Victorian room relocated intact from the previous library building, and serious archival collections including photography and Shakespeare-related material. It's a genuinely large public library as well as a visitor draw, so it's worth treating as both.
A visit can be as quick as 30-45 minutes to see the atrium and terraces, longer if exploring the collections or reading rooms.
Library of Birmingham FAQs
Yes, entry and access to the public floors, terraces, and most exhibitions are free.
An ornate Victorian room built for the original 1882 library, dismantled and rebuilt intact inside the current Library of Birmingham, housing rare Shakespeare-related books and materials.
Yes, outdoor terraces on the upper floors, including a Secret Garden, offer panoramic views over the city centre, weather and opening hours permitting.
About 30-45 minutes to see the main atrium and terraces; longer if visiting the Shakespeare Room or using the reading rooms.
It was widely reported as the largest public library in the UK (and one of the largest in Europe) upon opening in 2013, based on its floor space.
Reviews/Comments
No comments yet — be the first.