Glasgow Women's Library
Scotland's pioneering library celebrating women's histories, archives, and voices through collections, events, and community.
A pioneering cultural institution in Glasgow's East End dedicated to celebrating women's histories, achievements, and voices. This award-winning library houses an extensive collection of books, archives, and artifacts spanning from Suffragette memorabilia to contemporary materials. Beyond lending, it offers exhibitions, learning programs, and community events throughout Scotland. Free entry welcomes all visitors to explore, borrow, research, and participate in creative activities in an accessible, welcoming environment.
A brief summary to Glasgow Women's Library
- 23 Landressy St, Glasgow, Bridgeton, G40 1BP, GB
- +441415502267
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on a Tuesday for a quieter experience with fewer crowds, though some events may still be scheduled. Call ahead to confirm what's on and find the best quiet spaces for browsing or research.
- Check the events calendar before visiting to discover free or low-cost programs including Women's Heritage Walks, book readings, workshops, and discussions. Most events last one to two hours and require advance booking.
- Bring your lunch and take advantage of free Wi-Fi and comfortable reading spaces throughout the building. Complimentary tea and coffee are available for visitors.
- If you wish to access archive or museum collections not currently on display, contact the library in advance to arrange an appointment with staff who can guide you through specialized materials.
- Get a free Library Card on your first visit to borrow books and take them home. No appointment is needed for general visits, though group visits must be arranged in advance.
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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Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the area near Bridgeton Cross. Take routes 18, 43, 46, 64, 65, 164, 263, or 2 to London Road or Bridgeton Cross. The library is a short walk from the bus stop—just around the corner on Landressy Street. Journey time from Glasgow city center is typically 15–25 minutes depending on traffic and your starting point. Single fares cost approximately £1.75–£2.00. Contact FirstGlasgow (0141 423 6600) or Glasgow Citybus (0141 954 2255) for current schedules.
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Train
Bridgeton railway station is approximately 400 meters from the library, a 5–7 minute walk. From Glasgow Central or Queen Street stations, take a local train service toward Bridgeton. Journey time from the city center is roughly 10–15 minutes. Standard single fares within Glasgow are typically £1.50–£2.50. The station exit leads onto London Road; from there, follow signs toward Bridgeton Cross and turn onto Landressy Street.
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Car
The library is located at 23 Landressy Street, Glasgow G40 1BP. Street parking is available in the Bridgeton area, though spaces can be limited during peak hours. There is no dedicated library car park. From Glasgow city center, follow signs toward the East End and Bridgeton. Journey time is typically 10–20 minutes depending on traffic. The building is accessible by car, and staff can assist with the entrance if needed.
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Walking
The library is accessible on foot from Bridgeton Cross via London Road or James Street. From Glasgow city center, the walk is approximately 1.5–2 kilometers (20–30 minutes) through urban streets. The route is flat and follows main roads with good pedestrian infrastructure. The building entrance is clearly marked on Landressy Street, just around the corner from Bridgeton Cross.
Glasgow Women's Library location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Glasgow Women's Library
A Unique Hub for Women's Stories and Archives
Glasgow Women's Library stands as Scotland's only dedicated resource celebrating women's histories, achievements, and contributions. Located in an award-winning building in Bridgeton, the library has evolved from a grassroots initiative into a vibrant cultural institution serving thousands of women annually. The collection encompasses an extraordinary range of materials—from Suffragette memorabilia and 1930s dressmaking patterns to rare 1970s Scottish Women's Liberation newsletters. These treasures tell stories of women's lives across centuries, offering both personal narratives and collective histories that might otherwise remain untold.Collections, Archives, and Research Resources
The library functions as far more than a traditional lending service. Its archive and museum collections preserve rare and significant materials documenting women's experiences, activism, and cultural contributions. Visitors can access reference-only materials within the building, while the lending library offers thousands of titles by and about women across all genres and subjects. The archive holds specialized collections requiring advance appointment to access, ensuring proper care of irreplaceable historical documents. Whether you're a professional researcher, student, or casual browser, the welcoming staff and volunteers help visitors navigate collections tailored to diverse interests and needs.Learning, Events, and Community Engagement
The library delivers over 200 innovative events and activities annually across Scotland, creating spaces for learning, connection, and empowerment. Programming includes Women's Heritage Walks exploring Glasgow's female-centered history, book readings, film screenings, craft sessions, writing groups, and talks addressing topics from women's health and sexuality to surviving violence and economic empowerment. Core programs support adult literacy and numeracy development, while specialized initiatives serve Black and Minority Ethnic women. Most events are free and typically last one to two hours, though advance booking is often required. The library's event calendar guides visitors toward activities matching their interests and availability.Accessible Design and Inclusive Spaces
The building prioritizes accessibility for all visitors. Wheelchair access includes lifts to the first floor and mezzanine, with gender-neutral individual closed-stall bathrooms on ground and first floors. Disabled toilet facilities are available on multiple levels. An induction loop supports visitors with hearing needs during events. The front-of-house team assists with the main entrance door. The library provides free Wi-Fi, comfortable reading spaces, and welcomes visitors to bring lunch. Tea and coffee are offered complimentary to guests. Quiet Tuesdays are recommended for those seeking a calmer atmosphere, though some events may still occur. The library remains committed to creating an environment where all women feel welcome and supported.A Living Archive of Women's Empowerment
Beyond its physical collections, Glasgow Women's Library embodies a philosophy of empowerment and inclusion. The organization employs 13 paid staff members and engages over 80 volunteers annually, creating a genuinely integrated community of users ranging from professional researchers to individuals who feel disconnected from mainstream culture and learning. The library's work extends throughout Scotland via its national program, ensuring that women across the country can access resources, participate in events, and connect with a supportive network. As a registered charity and social enterprise, the institution continues pioneering approaches to cultural preservation, adult education, and community development centered on women's voices and experiences.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Former Templeton Carpet Factory
0.4 km
A Venetian Gothic masterpiece in Glasgow’s East End, blending rich carpet-making heritage with vibrant modern community life.
Nelson's Monument, Glasgow
0.9 km
A towering 44-meter obelisk on Glasgow Green honoring Admiral Nelson’s naval victories and Glasgow’s pioneering civic spirit.
Glasgow 2014 Monument
1.1 km
A bold, colourful sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s 2014 Commonwealth Games, where sport, art and civic pride come together in a striking riverside landmark.
Tolbooth Steeple
1.3 km
Glasgow’s iconic 17th-century Tolbooth Steeple stands tall as a historic clock tower and enduring symbol of the city’s rich civic past.
Buffalo Bill Statue
1.3 km
Where the American frontier met Victorian Glasgow in an unforgettable winter spectacle.
The Glenlee Propellers
1.4 km
Discover the Glenlee Propellers, iconic steel relics symbolizing Glasgow’s proud shipbuilding heritage and maritime history.
Glasgow City Heritage Trust
1.4 km
Explore Glasgow's rich history with the Glasgow City Heritage Trust, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the city's architectural and cultural heritage.
Bridge of Sighs
1.5 km
A quiet stone bridge in Glasgow’s Cathedral Square, linking the medieval cathedral to the Victorian Necropolis and echoing centuries of farewells.
The Gatekeeper
1.7 km
A striking bronze figure guarding Glasgow’s Gorbals, blending art, history, and community spirit in a unique urban landmark.
Old Police Post
1.7 km
A historic blue police box marking Glasgow's pioneering role in British law enforcement and urban policing innovation.
Metropolitan Cathedral of St Andrew
1.7 km
Historic Neo-Gothic cathedral and spiritual heart of Glasgow’s Catholic community since the early 19th century.
Tobacco Merchant's House
1.8 km
Explore the Tobacco Merchant's House, a historic site in Glasgow that reveals the fascinating story of the tobacco trade and its impact on the city's heritage.
Glasgow City Chambers
1.9 km
A grand Victorian town hall in the heart of Glasgow, where civic power meets opulent architecture and free guided tours reveal the city’s proud history.
Royal Exchange Square
2.0 km
Discover the lively Royal Exchange Square in Glasgow, a cultural landmark renowned for its stunning architecture, art exhibitions, and vibrant atmosphere.
Walter Scott Monument
2.0 km
A towering Gothic tribute to Sir Walter Scott in Glasgow’s historic George Square, celebrating Scotland’s literary heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Glasgow Green
0.5 km
Glasgow Green, the city’s oldest park, blends rich history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant events across expansive green spaces by the River Clyde.
Doulton Fountain
0.6 km
The world’s largest terracotta fountain, a Victorian masterpiece celebrating Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee and Glasgow’s imperial heritage.
People's Palace
0.6 km
Explore Glasgow’s rich social history and relax amidst tropical plants in the iconic People's Palace and Winter Gardens.
Barrowland Ballroom
0.9 km
Glasgow’s legendary live music venue with iconic neon sign, superb acoustics, and a storied history as a dance hall turned concert landmark.
Barras Market
0.9 km
Explore Glasgow’s historic Barras Market, a lively weekend bazaar famed for antiques, street food, and authentic local culture every Saturday and Sunday.
Barrowland Park
1.2 km
A lively urban park at the heart of Glasgow’s music scene, where culture and community come alive on Gallowgate.
St Andrew's in the Square
1.2 km
An exquisite 18th-century classical church turned vibrant cultural centre celebrating Scotland’s music, history, and heritage in Glasgow’s historic East End.
Wellpark Brewery
1.2 km
Discover Glasgow’s oldest brewery where centuries of tradition meet the birthplace of Scotland’s iconic Tennent’s Lager.
McLennan Arch
1.2 km
Historic sandstone archway marking the grand entrance to Glasgow Green, a timeless symbol of Glasgow’s architectural heritage.
Drygate Brewing Co.
1.3 km
Glasgow’s pioneering experiential brewery with craft beers, fearless food, panoramic brewhouse views, and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Southern Necropolis
1.3 km
Explore Glasgow’s Southern Necropolis, a historic Victorian cemetery rich in working-class heritage, evocative monuments, and intriguing local legends.
Celtic Park
1.4 km
Experience the passion and heritage of Celtic Football Club at Glasgow’s iconic Celtic Park, one of Europe’s largest football stadiums.
Tron Theatre
1.4 km
Historic church-turned-theatre at the heart of Glasgow's Merchant City, showcasing bold contemporary work and emerging Scottish talent.
o2 accadamy
1.4 km
Historic art deco music venue in Glasgow's Gorbals, hosting diverse live shows with a lively atmosphere and accessible facilities.
High St
1.4 km
Historic High Street in Glasgow links the city’s rich past with vibrant shopping streets and cultural landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox
0.8 km
Discover the fusion of delicious grill cuisine and live music at Saint Luke's & The Winged Ox in Glasgow – where every meal is an experience.
Bilsons Cafe Bistro
1.1 km
Experience innovative Scottish brunch and unique wine pairings in a charming Glasgow bistro known for fresh, seasonal dishes and warm hospitality.
Mono
1.4 km
Glasgow’s vibrant vegan café-bar blending creative plant-based cuisine, indie music vibes, and a unique record shop atmosphere.
Boteco Do Brasil
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Brazil at Boteco Do Brasil in Glasgow – where delicious cuisine meets lively nightlife.
Cafe Gandolfi
1.5 km
A historic Glasgow bistro blending Scottish culinary tradition with artisanal craftsmanship and warm, convivial atmosphere.
Mharsanta - Scottish Restaurant & Bar
1.5 km
Experience authentic Scottish cuisine and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s historic Merchant City.
Bar Soba Merchant City
1.5 km
Experience Glasgow's Asian fusion at Bar Soba Merchant City - where unique cocktails meet vibrant flavors in an unforgettable atmosphere.
The Dhabba
1.5 km
Experience authentic Northern Indian cuisine in Glasgow with vibrant flavors, a nut-free menu, and a welcoming atmosphere at The Dhabba.
Celentano's
1.5 km
Michelin-awarded Italian cuisine celebrating Scottish ingredients in a historic city-centre setting.
Table Twenty Eight
1.5 km
Chic restaurant and cocktail bar in Glasgow’s Merchant Square, renowned for gourmet dishes, vibrant atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks.
Metropolitan Bar and Restaurant
1.5 km
Experience Glasgow's vibrant culinary scene at Metropolitan Bar & Restaurant – where gourmet pub fare meets expertly crafted cocktails.
The Italian Kitchen
1.5 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Santa Lucia Merchant City Glasgow
1.6 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh flavors, lively ambiance, and live music in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City.
Turkiye EFES Restaurant
1.6 km
Authentic Turkish cuisine and grilled meats served with warmth and tradition in Glasgow’s vibrant Merchant City.
Pavement
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant taste of Glasgow at Pavement Grill Restaurant – where exceptional flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Modern Love Store
0.8 km
Pastel-hued trove of global homewares, kitsch glassware, and joyful gifts in Glasgow's east end—unique finds with character await.
Never miss a gift
0.9 km
Explore Never Miss a Gift in Glasgow for unique candles and health products that capture the essence of thoughtful gifting.
Minted
1.4 km
Discover rare vintage streetwear and sustainable style at Minted, Glasgow’s curated hub for iconic 90s and sportswear fashion.
Mr Ben Retro Clothing
1.4 km
A snug, long‑established vintage boutique in Kings Court with handpicked garments, textured displays and friendly, specialist service.
Boots
1.4 km
Discover the best in beauty and health at Boots in Glasgow, your one-stop cosmetics shop for quality products and expert advice.
Shop local
1.4 km
A compact, practical convenience store on Crown Street supplying everyday essentials and neighbourhood flavours in Glasgow’s Gorbals.
Social Recluse
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish apparel at Social Recluse, Glasgow’s boutique for creative and quality designs in the city center.
Bob's Bubbles Glasgow
1.4 km
Experience the best vaporiser shop in Glasgow at Bob's Bubbles, where quality meets expertise in a vibrant atmosphere.
Co-op Food - Glasgow - Crown Street
1.5 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Glasgow's Gorbals, offering local snacks, essentials, and a taste of Scotland!
Frida and Coco
1.5 km
Discover unique vintage treasures and creative flair at Frida and Coco, Glasgow’s beloved boutique for timeless style and costume fashion.
Grab n Go convenience store
1.6 km
A compact, dependable convenience store on Gorbals Street offering snacks, basics and friendly counter service for locals and passersby.
Pride of Glasgow
1.7 km
Discover tartan treasures and whisky wonders at this spirited Argyle Street shop, where Scottish pride meets Glasgow's cheeky charm in every authentic souvenir.
The Glasgow Souvenir Outlet
1.7 km
Authentic Scottish treasures in Glasgow's vibrant core: tartans, whisky keepsakes, and artisan crafts for every traveler's suitcase.
Kirkwood of Scotland
1.8 km
Elegant and comfortable British-made womenswear for mature women, blending timeless style with quality craftsmanship in Glasgow’s Forge Shopping Centre.
St. Enoch Centre
1.8 km
Experience the ultimate shopping adventure at St. Enoch Centre, Glasgow's bustling retail hub with shops, dining, and entertainment.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pig 'n' Whistle
0.8 km
Cozy Glasgow pub pouring pints and serving comfort food in a lively City Centre spot with a welcoming beer garden.
DnH Craft Cocktails
1.4 km
Expert mobile mixologists delivering award-worthy craft cocktails to your Glasgow or Edinburgh event, with pop-up bars and classes for unforgettable celebrations.
Strathduie Bar
1.4 km
Traditional Glasgow pub revived in Merchant City: darts, live music, draught beers, and cozy rooms for authentic Scottish hospitality.
Maggies Rock n Rodeo
1.4 km
Experience Glasgow’s wild side with live music, line dancing, and a mechanical bull at Maggie’s Rock n Rodeo in Merchant City.
Avant Garde Music Bar & Restaurant
1.4 km
Dive into Glasgow's underground beats at Avant Garde, where live music, modern eats, and vaulted vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
Home
1.5 km
Glasgow's go-to pub for live sports, craft cocktails, and hearty sharing plates in the vibrant Merchant City – where every visit feels like home turf.
Sharkeys Bar
1.5 km
Family-run Gorbals gem serving hearty pies, perfect pints, and warm welcomes in a dog-friendly local atmosphere.
Bar 91
1.6 km
Laid-back Merchant City pub pouring craft brews, global bites, and live tunes opposite City Halls—a Glasgow essential for day-to-night vibes.
Brazen Head
1.7 km
A lively Celtic and Irish pub in the Gorbals, famed for match nights, football memorabilia and live music in an intimate, unpretentious setting.
BrewDog Glasgow Merchant City
1.7 km
Craft beer rebellion meets smoky barbecue in Glasgow's historic Merchant City – 25 taps, outdoor patio, and dog-friendly vibes await.
Steps Bar
1.7 km
Discover Glasgow's Art Deco time capsule: Steps Bar's preserved 1930s elegance, walnut gantry, and jukebox vibes await in Merchant City's historic heart.
Bacchus Bar
1.7 km
Glasgow's friendliest independent bar in Merchant City, pouring wine-god vibes with live music, quizzes, and unbeatable value since over two decades.
Speakeasy
1.8 km
A vibrant and welcoming gay bar in Glasgow’s Merchant City, blending relaxed pub vibes with lively nightlife and creative cocktails.
Katie's Bar Glasgow
1.8 km
Glasgow’s vibrant underground LGBTQ+ bar with live music, themed nights, and affordable drinks in the heart of Merchant City.
Cairns Bar
1.8 km
Cozy Merchant City pub pouring Belhaven ales, serving pub classics, and screening live sports in Glasgow's lively heart—perfect for pints and pies anytime.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
18 Candleriggs
1.5 km
Glasgow's kitsch cabaret haven where dazzling shows, tasty grill fare, and lively vibes create unforgettable Merchant City nights.
AXM Glasgow
1.7 km
Scotland's biggest LGBTQ+ nightclub: two floors of pop, charts, and dance in Glasgow's heart, with cheap drinks and zero attitude.
Polo Lounge
1.8 km
Glasgow's grandest gay nightclub: multi-level dance floors, cheap drinks, and non-stop energy until dawn in Merchant City's heart.
Riding Room
1.8 km
Fancy cabaret club in Glasgow's gay triangle, serving exotic kettle cocktails alongside burlesque, magic, and cheeky shows in a lively, intimate venue.
Club X
1.8 km
Glasgow's underground RnB haven: where beats throb, lights flash, and the LGBTQ+ community dances till dawn in Merchant City's beating heart.
Delmonicas
1.8 km
Scotland's biggest gay club: drag shows, karaoke, DJs, and non-stop inclusive party vibes in Glasgow's Merchant City heart.
La Cheetah Club
1.9 km
Glasgow’s intimate basement club with a powerful sound system, vibrant underground beats, and a welcoming community spirit.
Sub Club
2.1 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
2.1 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.1 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.2 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.3 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
Popworld Glasgow
2.3 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
Kokomo Glasgow
2.4 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Bamboo
2.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Lively
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Art & Design
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Instagrammable
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Mindfulness
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Wheelchair Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
