The Leeds Library, UK’s oldest subscription library founded in 1768, beckons visitors with its architectural beauty and literary treasures, boasting over 150,000 volumes and rare first editions. Situated on Commercial Street, this hidden gem offers a unique glimpse into literary and local history, welcoming guests six days a week to explore its enchanting space.
What is the significance of The Leeds Library and why should you visit?
The Leeds Library is the UK’s oldest subscription library, established in 1768 and rich in both architectural beauty and literary treasures. With over 150,000 volumes including rare first editions, and an interior featuring historical sunlighters and a Georgian spiral staircase, it’s a hidden gem that offers a unique glimpse into literary and local history. Visitors can explore this enchanting space and its extensive collection six days a week.
A Hidden Gem with Historical Significance
The Leeds Library, an institution steeped in history, holds the honor of being the UK’s oldest subscription library. Established in the year 1768, it initially welcomed readers above Joseph Ogle’s bookshop on Kirkgate. As the library grew, it moved in 1808 to its current residence on Commercial Street, expanding further into adjacent property later in the century. Today, this bastion of knowledge proudly stands as a testament to the enduring value of literature and learning, continuing its legacy into 2024.
Nina Corey, the CEO of The Leeds Library, shared insights into its architectural and literary treasures. “We have the main room, which opened in 1808 and houses most of our fiction collection,” she explained. The 1860s saw an expansion into what is known as the new room, which isn’t quite so new today. This space not only hosts weddings but also serves as a repository for the library’s extensive non-fiction titles. Additionally, there exists a secluded reading area that harks back to its days as a ladies’ reading room.
Architectural Marvel and Literary Treasures
Upon entering the library, visitors are greeted by the majestic sight of rich oak bookcases brimming with novels of every genre. To access titles perched on the highest shelves, a classic rolling ladder is available, adding to the charm of the place. Climbing the stairs, one encounters an ornate, iron-wrought balcony adorned with fairy lights and ivy, creating an enchanting atmosphere that houses even more literary works.
The library’s historical significance is further emphasized by the presence of original 1850s sunlighters in the main room. These lighting fixtures, which once burned 18 naked flames each, are a rare piece of Leeds’ heritage and allowed the library to remain open well into the evenings. Today, they stand as the oldest in situ sunlighters and contribute to the library’s unique character.
Another highlight of this institution is its collection of staircases that seem to transport visitors to a bygone era. While one staircase is a 1990s replica, the other is an authentic Georgian spiral that leads to the upper tier of the library. Quirky features, such as a secret window across from the gentlemen’s toilets, allow glimpses into the original structure, adding to the library’s mystique.
From Rare Editions to Expansion Plans
The true essence of the library lies within its literary collection, boasting 150,000 volumes, including prized first editions and historical texts. Nina proudly pointed out, “We’ve got the first edition of Origin of the Species by Charles Darwin,” within which a curious typo can be spotted on the first page. “We even have an original version of Moby Dick, which was in three volumes called The Whale, so we have some real treasures here.”
Currently, the library faces the challenge of space, with 50,000 books stored off-site. However, exciting developments are on the horizon, as plans for expansion into the neighboring building are underway. The completion of phase one has already brought enhancements, including the addition of a lift, making the library accessible for the first time, and the creation of a bespoke meeting space.
The library’s colorful past is not without its share of supernatural tales. One notable anecdote involves a ghostly encounter in 1884, when librarian John MacAlister reported seeing the illuminated face of a man, believed to be his predecessor Vincent Sternberg, mysteriously appearing from within a bookcase. While Sternberg’s visage was never seen again, the story adds a layer of intrigue to the library’s lore.
As the membership numbers have grown from a modest 105 to over 1,100, The Leeds Library invites new patrons to discover its wonders. Tucked away on Commercial Street, it remains a hidden treasure for many. With its doors open six days a week and memberships available, the library beckons all who are curious to explore its halls and perhaps stumble upon literary gems of their own.
The Leeds Library, nestled at 18 Commercial Street in Leeds, West Yorkshire, extends its invitation to literature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Its operating hours are Monday to Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm, Thursdays from 10 am to 7 pm, Fridays from 10 am to 5 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm. It remains closed on Sundays. For those interested in becoming a part of this venerable institution, memberships are offered at £156 per person, per year.
- The Leeds Library is the UK’s oldest subscription library, founded in 1768, housing over 150,000 volumes and rare first editions.
- The library’s architectural beauty and historical significance include features like sunlighters, a Georgian spiral staircase, and a rolling ladder for access to high shelves.
- Plans for expansion to address space challenges are underway, with phase one already completed, adding a lift and a meeting space.
- The library boasts rare editions like the first edition of Origin of the Species by Charles Darwin and an original version of Moby Dick.
- Visitors can explore the library six days a week, with memberships available for those eager to discover literary treasures and historical wonders.