Library of Birmingham
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
Located in Centenary Square, the Library of Birmingham is a striking modern landmark and one of the largest public libraries in Europe. With over a million books, extensive archives including the second largest Shakespeare collection worldwide, and ten floors of public spaces, it offers a rich cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy rooftop gardens with panoramic city views, art galleries, an amphitheatre, and numerous study and exhibition areas in a vibrant and accessible setting.
A brief summary to Library of Birmingham
- Centenary Sq, Birmingham, B1 2ND, GB
- +441212424242
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit the rooftop gardens for free panoramic views of Birmingham’s skyline and a tranquil escape within the city.
- Explore the Shakespeare Memorial Room to see one of the world’s largest collections of Shakespearean works, including a rare First Folio.
- Use the Heritage Research Area and Wolfson Centre for archival research by booking an appointment in advance.
- Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the ten floors and enjoy the unique architectural features like the Rotunda and escalator network.
- Check the library’s website for current exhibitions, events, and extended opening hours on Mondays and Tuesdays.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Train
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 15 to 20-minute walk through the city center to reach Centenary Square where the library is located. The route is mostly flat and accessible, passing major landmarks. No additional cost beyond train fare.
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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve Broad Street near Centenary Square, including numbers 1, 8, and 11, with frequent service every 10-15 minutes. The journey time from central Birmingham locations is typically 10-20 minutes. A contactless or day bus ticket costing around £2-£4 is required.
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Car
Driving to the library is possible with nearby public car parks at Cambridge Street and Arena Birmingham. Parking fees vary but expect around £2-£4 per hour. Note that city center traffic and limited parking availability may affect convenience.
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Walking
If staying nearby, walking to the library is easy and enjoyable, with flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point and the city center’s busy atmosphere.
Library of Birmingham location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Library of Birmingham
Architectural Marvel and Cultural Beacon
The Library of Birmingham stands as a bold architectural icon in the heart of the city’s Centenary Square. Designed by Francine Houben, it is often called the 'People’s Palace' for its welcoming atmosphere and public accessibility. The building’s striking modern design features a distinctive metal lattice exterior and expansive glass walls, allowing natural light to flood the interior. Inside, ten floors accommodate a variety of spaces including reading galleries, exhibition areas, and performance venues, making it a dynamic cultural hub.Vast Collections and Special Archives
Home to over one million books, the library boasts one of Europe’s largest public collections. It holds internationally recognized archives, including the Boulton and Watt collection on the Industrial Revolution and the second largest Shakespeare collection globally, featuring a rare First Folio from 1623. Other treasures include the extensive Map Room with over 50,000 antique maps, a rich photography archive, and unique collections of silent movie music and historic greeting cards, appealing to scholars and casual visitors alike.Engaging Public Spaces and Facilities
Beyond books, the library offers diverse public spaces such as the Library Rotunda with its futuristic escalators and labyrinthine staircases, an outdoor amphitheatre for performances, and gallery spaces showcasing rotating exhibitions. The rooftop gardens provide tranquil green spaces with stunning panoramic views of Birmingham’s skyline, perfect for relaxation or photography. Facilities also include a café, recording studio, dedicated youth areas, and free Wi-Fi, supporting a wide range of community activities and learning opportunities.Community and Learning Hub
The Library of Birmingham serves as a vibrant community center, hosting year-round events, workshops, and performances in collaboration with local and international partners. It supports lifelong learning and cultural development through expert advice, digital resources, and specialized research rooms such as the Heritage Research Area and the Wolfson Centre for Archival Research. These spaces require appointments but offer access to rare materials and family history resources.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The library is designed for easy access by all visitors, including those with disabilities, and is well connected by public transport. Its location in Centenary Square places it near other major city attractions, enhancing its appeal as a cultural destination. Open Monday to Saturday with extended hours on Mondays and Tuesdays, the library welcomes millions of visitors annually, offering free entry to its collections, exhibitions, and rooftop gardens.A Living Landmark in Birmingham’s Urban Landscape
More than a repository of books, the Library of Birmingham is a symbol of the city’s commitment to knowledge, culture, and community. Its blend of historic collections and modern amenities creates a unique environment where tradition meets innovation. Whether you are a researcher, student, or casual visitor, the library invites you to explore its vast resources, enjoy its public spaces, and experience Birmingham’s rich heritage in a contemporary setting.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chamberlain Memorial
0.3 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
0.3 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
The River
0.4 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Historic England
0.5 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Workers Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Chamberlain Clock
0.9 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.9 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
1.0 km
Discover Birmingham’s first post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, a Gothic Revival masterpiece rich in history, art, and spiritual heritage.
Bullring & Grand Central
1.0 km
Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
St. Martin's
1.1 km
Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
The Jewellery Quarter
1.1 km
Explore Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, a vibrant district filled with artisan shops, exquisite craftsmanship, and rich heritage.
The Selfridges Building
1.1 km
A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
West Midlands Police Museum
1.1 km
Explore the captivating history of law enforcement at the West Midlands Police Museum in Birmingham, a unique attraction for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Museum of the Jewellery Quarter
1.3 km
Step into a perfectly preserved jewellery workshop and discover Birmingham’s sparkling heritage through immersive guided tours and rich craftsmanship history.
Edgbaston Village
1.4 km
Discover the picturesque Edgbaston Village in Birmingham—where history meets modern charm in a vibrant community setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Secret Garden
0.0 km
Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.1 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Hall of Memory
0.1 km
Discover the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a significant memorial dedicated to the bravery of those who served in the World Wars amidst serene gardens.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.1 km
Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
Symphony Hall
0.1 km
Experience world-class acoustics and vibrant live performances at Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall on Broad Street.
Regency Wharf
0.2 km
Scenic canals, vibrant dining, and cultural events converge at Birmingham’s dynamic Regency Wharf.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.2 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
Birmingham Walk of Stars
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham’s rich cultural heritage through a vibrant walk of fame honoring its legendary icons along Broad Street.
Chamberlain Sq
0.3 km
Where Victorian grandeur meets modern Birmingham – a lively civic square with museums, markets, and great architecture.
Gas Street Basin
0.3 km
Historic canal basin at Birmingham’s heart blending industrial heritage with vibrant waterside leisure and scenic urban charm.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.3 km
Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
The Coffin Works
0.3 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
Chamberlain Square
0.3 km
Birmingham’s iconic public square blending Victorian grandeur with modern vibrancy and cultural celebration.
Birmingham Town Hall
0.3 km
Discover Birmingham Town Hall, a Roman Revival architectural gem and historic concert venue at the heart of Victoria Square.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
0.3 km
Dive into the UK's only 360° Ocean Tunnel and meet playful penguins, rescued sea otters, and thousands of marine creatures at Birmingham’s premier aquarium.
Essential places to dine
Aria Restaurant
0.1 km
Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
Opheem
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.3 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
Bistrot Pierre - Birmingham
0.3 km
Authentic French bistro on Birmingham's canalside, serving traditional cuisine at accessible prices in a Grade II listed building.
The Coconut Tree Birmingham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and unique island Cocotails in a lively, colorful setting at The Coconut Tree Birmingham.
Bank Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Sophisticated grill classics and fresh seafood in a stylish Brindleyplace setting with scenic canal terraces and vibrant atmosphere.
Noel’s Bar and Restaurant
0.4 km
Mediterranean charm meets Birmingham's waterfront—where fresh pasta, charcoal grills, and craft cocktails create unforgettable canalside dining.
Adam's Restaurant
0.5 km
Michelin-starred modern British fine dining in Birmingham with creative cuisine, elegant Art Deco style, and impeccable service.
Orelle
0.5 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
The Birmingham Stable
0.5 km
A lively Birmingham pizza and cider bar with thin-crust sourdough, craft ciders, and a buzzing industrial-chic vibe – perfect for casual dinners and bottomless brunches.
La Galleria
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Birmingham at La Galleria, where tradition meets generous portions and cozy charm.
The Lost & Found Birmingham
0.5 km
A Victorian botanical haven in Birmingham offering creative British cuisine and inventive cocktails in a quirky, vintage-inspired setting.
Turtle Bay Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours, lively reggae vibes, and 2-for-1 cocktails in the heart of Birmingham’s city centre.
Tiger Bites Pig
0.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s vibrant Taiwanese bao culture with fresh, flavorful buns and rice bowls in a cozy, lively city centre spot.
The ARK Birmingham
0.6 km
A vibrant fusion of authentic Indian cuisine and dynamic nightlife in Birmingham’s city center.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harvey Nichols
0.5 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.6 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Miniso
0.7 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Urban Outfitters
0.7 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.7 km
Discover quirky, affordable Scandinavian gifts and everyday essentials that bring joy and creativity to Birmingham’s city center.
Community Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Designer Exchange
0.8 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
The Works
0.8 km
Discover affordable arts, crafts, books, and stationery in the heart of Birmingham’s vibrant New Street shopping district.
Beauty & the Button
0.8 km
Discover personalised gifts and colourful button frames at Beauty & the Button, Birmingham’s charming shop for meaningful celebrations.
La MC Vintage
0.8 km
Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures in Birmingham’s charming North Western Arcade at La MC Vintage.
Buff Jewellery
0.9 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
SACET
0.9 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Artfull Expression
0.9 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
0.2 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
0.3 km
A stylish canal-side bar in Brindley Place, Birmingham, perfect for all-day dining, cocktails, and vibrant social experiences.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
0.3 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham’s Brindley Place offering extensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and expert bartenders for unforgettable nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Malt House
0.3 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.4 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Fox and Chance
0.5 km
An award-winning independent cocktail bar in Birmingham, blending creative drinks with a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.5 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Aluna
0.5 km
Experience theatrical cocktails and pan-Asian dining in a stylish canalside setting at Birmingham's Aluna, the Mailbox's premier cocktail bar.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.5 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Gas Street Social
0.5 km
Canalside brasserie and cocktail bar at Birmingham’s Mailbox—known for bottomless brunches, sharers and a lively waterside atmosphere.
BrewDog Birmingham
0.5 km
Discover Birmingham’s craft beer haven with bold brews, industrial vibes, and lively events at BrewDog on John Bright Street.
Dirty Martini - Birmingham
0.5 km
Trendy cocktail bar in Birmingham’s city center, known for stylish decor, expertly crafted drinks, and a lively party atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Birmingham
0.2 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.3 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.4 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
What do you mean
0.6 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
King of clubs
0.6 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Snobs
0.6 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.8 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
PAVO Birmingham
0.8 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
Bambu Nightclub
0.9 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
0.9 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Sobar
1.0 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
Mango Night Club
1.0 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Nightingale Club
1.1 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
1.2 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
suki10c
1.4 km
Quirky Digbeth nightclub with local art, sustainable vibes, and eclectic beats in an intimate 180-capacity space powered by wind energy.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Futuristic Looks
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
