Mitchell Library

The Mitchell Library, with its distinctive copper dome, is Glasgow�s largest public library and one of its most famous landmarks.

"The Mitchell Library, with its distinctive copper dome, is one of Glasgow�s most famous landmarks. The original library, opened in 1877 in Ingram Street in the city centre but by the mid-1880s the Library moved to Miller Street. However, soon problems with lack of space for both books and readers were encountered. The situation became exacerbated after the Library received a substantial bequest from the late Robert Jeffrey in 1902. In 1904, the Corporation decided to erect a new building and an architectural competition was held and plans by William B. Whitie were chosen.
�
The Library�s recurring problem with space meant that an extension was begun in 1939. Building work was discontinued during the WWII and this extension finally opened in 1963. In 1962, the St Andrew�s Halls was destroyed by fire, putting the adjacent Mitchell Library at considerable risk. After much debate it was agreed that the site could be used for a library extension and Edinburgh architects, Sir Frank Mears and Partners were appointed to prepare the plans. The new extension was begun in 1972 and opened in 1981. The original fa�ade of the St Andrews Halls, with its impressive statuary, became part of the new exterior.
�
In 2006 library material was made available for lending for the first time in the Library�s history. In 2007 redevelopment work took place to turn the old Mitchell Theatre foyer into an impressive Surf Area with public PCs, Leisure and Lifestyle for lending, and Caf�. In 2008, the Business and Media section opened on Level 1, with an emphasis on electronic information resources.
�
The library has continued to evolve and in 2016 developed the Let�s Talk area where library visitors can use the original study tables as well as learn about the wide and varied collections within the library.

Mon-Sat 9am-8pm - Building can be visited at these times without booking

�

Doors Open Day 2018:

Pop in for the Mitchell Curious sessions daily at 12.30 or book one of the tours to see behind the scenes.

Mon-Sat 9am-8pm - Building can be visited at these times without booking

Tours: Tue & Thu 12.30pm, Sat 10.30am, 12.30pm & 2.30pm; 60 minutes

Tour meeting point: Granville Street Let�s Talk Area

Booking essential - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/mitchell-open-tours-tickets-45757452773?aff=es2