Bristol Central Library

Bristol Central Library sits at College Green in a Tudor Revival building with multiple stories housing books, periodicals, newspapers, and digital resources for public use. The structure was designed to serve as a center for knowledge and research across various subjects.

Charles Holden designed this building in 1906 as an early example of his work before gaining fame for London Underground station designs. It became a major educational institution that transformed how residents accessed books and information.

The library serves as a gathering place where visitors discover not just books but also art exhibitions and community activities that reflect local creativity. It functions as a social hub where people of different ages and backgrounds meet to learn and share ideas.

The library maintains regular hours and sits in a central location at College Green that is easy to reach from various parts of the city. Taking time to walk through different floors helps visitors find the specific materials and resources they seek.

The building earned Grade I listed status, recognizing its architectural importance from the early 1900s when it was completed. Many visitors overlook that this was Holden's significant work in Bristol before his Underground station designs made him internationally known.

Location: City of Bristol

Inception: 1906

Architects: Charles Holden

Architectural style: Tudor Revival architecture

Elevation above the sea: 19.48371 m

Address: Bristol Central Library, College Green, Bristol, BS1 5TL

Email: bristol.library.service@bristol.gov.uk

Website: https://bristol.gov.uk/libraries-archives/library-finder/-/journal_content/56/20195/LIBRARY-UPRN-000000199356/LIBRARY-DISPLAY

GPS coordinates: 51.45156,-2.60213

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:48