Event Type: Local / Community

Takes Place: 23rd May 2026

Time: 12:30

Venue: Bristol Central Library

Description: Join us for a tour of Bristol Central Library and learn more about Charles Holden, the architect behind this iconic building. You’ll also hear about the history of Bristol Central Library both past and present and have the opportunity to take a peak 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 first floor reading room from the 1740 King Street library which 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.

How to book: https://bristol.events.mylibrary.digital/event?id=339006&preview=true

Email: refandinfo@bristol.gov.uk

Organiser: Bristol Libraries

Region: South-West England