Liverpool Central Library

Liverpool Central Library looks like another example of impressive Victorian architecture at first (the city is full of them) but inside the interior is airy and modern with staircases criss-crossing each other under a domed glass ceiling. The two contrasting styles work so well together; it’s a really beautiful building.

As if that’s not enough, Liverpool Central Library is also home to the Grade II Listed Picton Reading Room. Wooden shelves filled with rare books line this circular room, again under a domed ceiling. It’s the perfect place to study. Let the surroundings spur you on with your next novel or your Spanish homework.

Other valuable books are kept in the Oak Room, one of the most notable being one of four volumes of John James Audubon’s magnificent double-elephant folio size Birds of America. The page is turned every Wednesday.

If you prefer to get your work done online there are 130 computers, some available to pre-book. Meeting rooms and a business and IP centre are available for use by start-ups and small businesses .

There’s a separate space for children and families with free computers for kids, loads of books and regular events.

Liverpool Central Library is also home to Liverpool Record Office. Visit the archives and search room to investigate local and family history with rare books, maps, photographs and archives available to view by appointment.