Central Library
Central Library is a beautifully re-modelled building with free wifi and 130 computers. It's the home of our business centre, a dedicated family space and the Liverpool Record Office and Archives. It also houses the historic grade II listed Picton Reading Room and Hornby Library along with 15,000 rare books. Find out more about all the services we offer.
Central Library
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Find us
William Brown Street, Liverpool L3 8EW
Contact us
We are closed bank holidays
Main library opening hours
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Other services opening hours
Explore our archives, records and rare books
Our collections date from 13th century onwards. Explore original documents, photographs, maps and newspapers which record the lives of Liverpudlians across the centuries.
Free reference sites
Access a rich variety of reference sites online via our digital reading platform readliverpool.co.uk.
More to do at Central Library
Visit the Business and IP Centre, or hire a meeting room.
Discover library - for children and families
A fully accessible family area with a child friendly environment hosting a wealth of books and free computers to use for young people up to 14. Find out more about children's library resources.
Additional services and facilities
Study spaces
- Four floors of seating
- 130 library computers - some available to pre-book and some walk up computers for members
- A quiet study space in the Picton Reading Room, first floor
Facilities
- Free wifi
- Multi-functional devices that print, scan and copy
- Toilets and baby change facilities
Accessibility
- Automatic entrance doors
- Accessible lift
- Accessible toilets
- Changing Places toilet
Events at Central Library
Events will be promoted here in the run-up to the event.
You can also view our main library events page, where you will find out about our regular events and what's happening in our community libraries.
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Windrush engagement team community event
Central Library
The Windrush Engagement Team will be holding an information stall and Q and A sessions in Liverpool Central Library. If you’ve had problems because you couldn’t prove your legal right to live in the UK, you could be eligible for compensation. For more information, call 0800 678 1925 or visit GOV.UK/WindrushHelpTeam
Thursday 10th July 2025 from 10am to 4pm. Just drop in.
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Creative writing workshop
Central Library
Local author, Richie Billing, shares his methods on crafting stories and plots to keep readers hooked. Whether you're new to writing, or more experienced, this class will teach you the fundamentals of writing in a fresh accessible way.
- Saturday 12th July 10am to 12pm
- Saturday 19th July 10am to 12pm
Email Alison at libraries.enquiries@liverpool.gov.uk to book your place on one of the sessions.
Places are limited, so if you can no longer attend please let us know.
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Nature Novels: Free creative writing workshops for 7-11 year olds
Central Library
We have partnered with Read Now Write Now to run free writing workshops for 7-11 year olds to learn about local nature, write a short story and illustrate it. These sessions are accessible and inclusive. Email charles@readnowwritenow.org.uk to find out more.
- Monday 21st July 10am to 12pm
- Thursday 24th July 10am to 12pm
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Story Time
Central Library
Join us for story time for young children between 12pm and 12.30pm each Tuesday during term time.
Drop in — free of charge
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Shared Reading PLUS sessions
Central Library
Aimed at people living with dementia, their carers, family members and friends. Just drop in, grab a cuppa and enjoy listening to a poem or story - no pressure to talk or read.
Wednesdays at 1pm. Drop in. For more information contact alison.cassidy@liverpool.gov.uk.
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Try shared reading
Central Library
Shared reading groups bring people together to talk, laugh and share.
Drop in, grab a cuppa and enjoy listening to a story or poem. No pressure to read or talk! Email alison.cassidy@liverpool.gov.uk for more information.
Every Monday from 2pm-3.30pm.
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Sole Survivor CIC - PTSD support group
Central Library
This group supports PTSD survivors and meets weekly to focus on sharing coping strategies, experiences and pathways to wellness. You do not need to have a formal diagnosis. To join and find out more visit the Sole Survivor website call 07903 544585 or email info@ptsdsupport.co.uk.
Each Tuesday 6.30-7.30pm in the fourth floor meeting rooms.
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Rethink Mental Illness Peer Support Group
Central Library
Each Thursday from 4pm-6pm and Friday from 10.30am-12pm in the first floor Enquire area.
Drop in - no appointment needed.
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Liverpool in Work employment advice helpdesk
Central Library
Each Thursday 10am to 2.30pm in the Atrium Café.
Drop in - no appointment needed.
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National Careers Service drop in CV and employability skills
Central Library
One-to-one help with your CV and cover letters, interview skills, finding courses and training, as well as career advice and skills assessments. Appointments are held in the ground floor games room each Friday between 10am-4pm.
Free. Call 0800 100 900 to book an appointment with the adviser Mark Chapman.
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Councillor's Surgery
Central Library
A chance to chat with your councillor if you have a problem or need advice. First Saturday of the month 12pm — 1pm.
Drop in.