Old Library, Grade II* listed library building in Cardiff city centre, United Kingdom.
The Old Library is a Grade II* listed building located at the northern end of The Hayes, a pedestrian street in central Cardiff, Wales. The three-story facade is built from Bath stone with Portland stone columns and ornamental wall tiles depicting the four seasons.
The building was constructed between 1880 and 1882 and served as Cardiff's main library for over a century. In 1988, the book collection moved to a new site, after which the building was gradually adapted for cultural and museum use.
The building now houses the Cardiff Story museum, where visitors can explore the city's past through objects and personal accounts from residents. It also serves as a teaching and performance space for the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama.
The building sits at the northern end of The Hayes and is easy to reach on foot from most parts of the city center. Entry to the Cardiff Story museum inside is free, so no advance booking is needed for a general visit.
The building still contains its original vertical tube heating system, made by William Graham of London during the original construction. This type of heating technology was rare even at the time it was installed, making it an unusual survival from the 1880s.
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