Library of Birmingham

The relatively new library is architecturally beautiful but I’m knocking off a point because the Library closed its cafe. When you send long spells in a library it’s helpful to be able to get a drink. In the British Library there are about four or five cafes on site which enables you to work, take a comfort break and return to researching or studying. Not sure why the second city’s main public library doesn’t have this important feature. I also think the business section could do with more resources and event to support businesses and business start up. That said, staff are helpful and professional. It’s easy to take out or renew memberships. I love the light and airy space on each floor and the statement elevators. The roof top garden is beautiful and a great amenity space on a warm day for us to catch up on phone calls. Again I may have remained there if I could have gotten a drink. Instead we leaf after two hours just to get refreshments.

An excellent and stylish city library, a must see when visiting Birmingham. Lovely top side outdoor seating with great views and garden islands. Well maintained throughout. Lovely atmosphere. Sees many visitors. Lots of study areas. Would have benefited for some cosy seating for a longer stay to fall into a book. Used as a business hub for contacts and resources etc. has clean toilets available. Great location. Its free.

Birmingham Library has been described as the largest public library in the UK, largest public cultural space in Europe and the largest regional library in Europe. This library was opened in Sep 2013 and its distinctive facade is made up of 5357 interlocking circles. This beautiful library was nominated for the Stirling Prize in 2014. There’re more than 1 million books on shelves and one of the busiest library in UK. Birmingham Library is truly a shining gem in the city's landscape. you'll find an excellent collection of books, periodicals, historical maps and a lot more to provide wide range of interests to public. Don’t forget to visit secret garden on top of the library. Free entry for a beautiful panoramic view of this beautiful city’s landscape. Oh and top of the Library, Shakespeare collection room is the cherry on top in Library. It has the 2nd largest Shakespeare collection in the world. Worth to visit library if you around.

Gorgeous library and one of the best ones I've been to in the UK. Known for being one of Europe's largest libraries and consists of 9 floors. 2 outdoor areas, one being a secret garden, which is a lovely little touch to get some fresh air and overlook the city views. Can imagine this being an extremely popular place to visit during the warmer days. One floor dedicated to Shakespeare. All the other floors dedicated to study spaces, quiet areas, access to computers and spaces to bring your laptop. There are plenty of books around on most floors and got lost in the middle of them all. I'm really blown away by this remarkable building. Water fill-up points available as well as wellbeing area. Busy library, mid Saturday.

A beautiful building that provides breathtaking views of the city. I was very impressed by everything—from the size, to the architecture. I think it’s a must visit if you make it to Birmingham

Such an amazing library. It's super big and the architecture impressive. There is a very interesting Shakespeare memorial on the 9th floor and on 7th floor there is a funky garden, called Secret garden with great views of Birmingham. There are a couple of cafes but we couldn't find them on the day. Still highly recommended !

The library is beautiful! As a tourist, it is a wonderful place for anyone coming to Birmingham. On the top 2 floors, there is a beautiful terrace with lots of flowers and benches to sit on. There is an exhibition that explains the history of the library. I recommend taking the elevator up and turn down by the escalators. As a student, it is a great place to study, do your homework, it has internet, very private spaces, you can get your membership card to request books. It is a great place for group study or even to read a book.

Visited for the Secret Garden on level 7 and the views. Stunning building from the outside with the very unusual cladding pattern. No wait to get in, very helpful staff member directed us. Inside less impressive, lifts and corridors "compact". Secret Garden a great spot to look out across the city, some views better than others, the garden itself could be delightful, but not sure if the council's well publicised budget problems have let care of gardens slip, grass and brambles rife, maybe need to get volunteers or trainees from botanical gardens in??