Join us for a tour of the library and learn more about its architect, Charles Holden. You’ll also hear about the history of Bristol Central Library both past and present and have the opportunity to take a peek behind the scenes.
Bristol Central Library opened in 1906. It was built with a bequest of £50,000 from Vincent Stuckey Lean. On the first floor there is a recreation of the original reading room from the 1740 King Street library which also contains a Grinling Gibbons fireplace. The current Reference Library reading room is little changed from when the library opened in 1906 and contains the original desks, shelving and seating. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the library galleries and the original City Librarian’s Office as well as viewing the newer parts of the building. The tour will involve climbing lots of stairs and spiral staircases as the library is split across several floors.
Booking is essential, tickets are limited.
This event has been organised as part of Local and Community History Month.