Central Library
Central Library is a beautifully re-modelled building with free wifi and 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
All libraries are closed on bank holidays.
Main library opening hours
The 24-hour book return machine outside Central Library is currently unavailable. Please return books during the opening times below.
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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
- 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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The Story of Polish Armed Forces after WW2
Central Library
Focusing on the Polish Resettlement Corps and the Polish Resettlement Act of 1947, this talk will examine the transition from wartime service to civilian life, including the role of Polish Resettlement Camps and the Polish Hospital.
Saturday 13th June 2026, 3pm-4pm in the Hornby Library. Book your free ticket on Eventbrite now -
We Roar
Central Library
An exhibition of artwork and poetry by 40 people imprisoned in England and the USA, including HMP Altcourse in Liverpool. Find out more at fayeclaridge.co.uk/weroar.
Exhibition runs from 2nd June to 30th June 2026. Free talk by the artist Faye Claridge on 30th June from 1-2pm book your tickets via Eventbrite.
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The Hardmans’ Liverpool: A Legacy in Light
Central Library
E. Chambré and Margaret Hardman were award winning photographers who ran successful studios in Liverpool and Chester. This National Trust exhibition, in partnership with Cewe, presents Liverpool and its people through their creative eyes, from carefully staged portraits to scenes of everyday life.
5th June - 28th September 2026. Free entry during normal library opening hours. In the Hornby Library.
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The Reading Round Poetry Special
Central Library
Four monthly meetings discovering poems for sheer enjoyment. Led by Poet and Writer Pauline Rowe in Room 1 on the 4th Floor.
Saturday 6th June, Saturday 4th July and Saturday 1st August from 10.30am to 12.30pm.
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Be an animal, smile like an animal.
Central Library
Put on your animal costume and enjoy reading, acting, dancing, writing, singing and playing to be an animal.
Free Workshop from 12pm until 2pm on Saturday 6th June, Saturday 13th June, and Saturday 20th June 2026.
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Storytime and Rhyme
Central Library
Storytime during the month of May.
Tuesday from 12pm until 1pm. Term time only.
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Story Time
Central Library
Every Tuesday 12- 12.30pm during term-time in the Discover room.
Free just drop in
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Project Teens
Central Library
Free accessible workshops for 11-18 years
Music, art, games, D&D and much more.
Friday 26th June and Saturday 27th June, 10am until 3pm
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Shared Reading for 3 to 5's
Central Library
Brand new relaxed sessions for little ones and their grown ups to explore the magic of books! Enjoy stories, rhymes, sing-a-longs and lots of fun. Come along on the day or speak to a member of the library team for more information. Find more out about the event at www.thereader.org.uk.
Tuesdays from 12pm until 1pm. Free Drop In.
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The Proud Readers' Book Club
Central Library
Liverpool Central Library welcomes you to this inclusive Bookclub. Open discussion in a safe space about classical and new LGBTQ+ authors.
Last Wednesday of every month - 6pm to 7.30pm
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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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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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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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Liverpool in Work employment advice helpdesk
Central Library
Each Thursday 10am to 2.30pm in the Atrium Café.
Call 0151 233 5312 to make an appointment.
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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.
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National Careers Service: 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.