On Centenary Square, the Library of Birmingham pairs Francine Houben’s bold modern design with book collections, exhibitions and places to pause. Go inside to see the open atrium and linked escalators, then head up to the outdoor terraces for greenery and views across the city. The Shakespeare Memorial Room, a Victorian interior moved from the earlier library, is a highlight on Level 9. Admission is free, so you can stop in for the architecture and terraces even if you have no time to browse the collections.
A library built to explore
The Library of Birmingham opened in 2013 on Centenary Square. Designed by Francine Houben, the building rises across ten levels, with a patterned exterior and a light-filled interior. Its open spaces, escalators and linked floors make the journey through the library part of the visit.
You do not need to be looking for a particular book to go in. The building is a city-centre attraction in its own right, with reading areas, collections, gallery space and outdoor terraces. Admission is free, and the library is wheelchair accessible, with accessible seating and an accessible entrance.
Collections, galleries and terraces
The main book collections begin on Level 1, alongside quiet study areas and more relaxed reading spaces. Level 2 holds reference materials, newspapers and curated collections. Higher floors continue with books, reading areas and study desks; Level 6 also has community events, workshops and learning spaces.
Level 3 has a discovery terrace and gallery space for changing exhibitions. The library also holds photography and rare-book collections, archives and specialist resources. The British Film Institute Mediatheque gives visitors free access to the National Film Archive. Children have their own library spaces, and the building hosts activities and events as well as exhibitions and performances.
For fresh air and a view over the city, head to the outdoor terraces. Level 7’s Secret Garden has greenery and places to sit, while the upper viewing areas look over Birmingham. Access to the garden can be affected by closures, so check before making it the main reason for your visit.
The Shakespeare Memorial Room
On Level 9, the Shakespeare Memorial Room brings a Victorian interior into the modern building. It was made for Birmingham’s earlier library and later moved here. Its wood-panelled design offers a marked change from the open, contemporary spaces around it.
The room is connected to the library’s Shakespeare collections, and exhibitions also explore the writer and his work. Allow time to look closely at the historic interior as well as the displays. The library’s different floors can take time to explore, so choose a few areas that interest you if your visit is brief.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the Library of Birmingham free to enter?
Yes. Admission is free.
What can you see at the Library of Birmingham?
Explore its book and archive collections, gallery spaces, outdoor terraces and the Shakespeare Memorial Room. The British Film Institute Mediatheque provides free access to the National Film Archive.
Where is the Shakespeare Memorial Room?
It is on Level 9. The Victorian room was made for Birmingham’s earlier library and moved to this building.
How long should you spend at the Library of Birmingham?
Allow about 1 to 3 hours to explore several floors, the terraces and the Shakespeare Memorial Room.
