Birmingham Central Library

Posted by: theculturalbible on: March 1, 2011

In: Local Attractions
Comment!

In the three years that I have been living in Birmingham, I have never actually been inside the Birmingham Central Library.

'Birmingham Central Library' by The Cultural Bible

I think it’s because I haven’t really had any need too and the outside of it if not appealing at all. Today though, I decided to venture inside to see what it was like.

When I entered the building, I was a bit underwhelmed and it wasn’t clear where to go. I just stood there for a bit feeling a bit lost. I then made my way through some doors to what I thought must be the main part of the library.

I walked through and it was the fiction section. It wasn’t very clearly laid out or signposted so I just had to walk around and try and find out where exactly I was.

I took the escalator to the next level where I was greeted by a woman who wanted me to fill out a questionnaire. She was quite nice so I did but then continued with my exploration of the central library.

On the first floor there was a cafe, which I wasn’t expecting at all. They just served the basic sandwiches, snacks and drinks but I’m guessing it would be handy if you’re spending a lot of time in the library. There was also a place allocated for people to use their phones so as not to disturb other people.

I realised that each of the floors were split up into sections, depending on what subject area it was. There was a whole section (half a floor) dedicated to music. It had music related books, CDs, DVDs….just about everything to do with music. I didn’t know libraries really did this sort of thing.

Other sections included Education, Science, Religion, Black History and Nursing. There really was a section or book on everything you could ever imagine.

'Birmingham Central Library Book Bin' by The Cultural Bible

On certain floors there were tables and study areas where people were either reading books or doing work. I didn’t really see anyone on a laptop and then I realised that I hadn’t seen any Wi-Fi signs or information on using computers.

I checked where the computers were but it didn’t tell me how to log on, if it was free, or what I’d need to do to be able to use them. This was not helpful. There weren’t any signs about using laptops here either.

On a different floor I noticed one girl using a notebook and she had a lead running from her computer to a plug on the table. It was one of those leads which connect you to the internet, but you’d have to take your own if you wanted to use the libraries internet.

Overall

My experience of the library is a mixed one as it was very large and had a lot of content but the layout was too confusing and there weren’t enough signs around to help you. It felt a bit messy and neglected too, but I’m guessing this is why they’re building the Library of Birmingham in 2013. One big positive is that there is a book drop off box outside the entrance so you can return books even when they are shut. I haven’t seen this before!

Visited: Tuesday 1^st March

Contact: Birmingham Central Library, Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3HQ

Tel: 0121 303 4511

Birmingham Central Library

Av Price per Person: Free entry