Cathays Library

Cathays Library is a Gothic Revival building positioned at a street corner with two wings arranged at angles to create an interesting floor plan. Inside, the space features reading areas, computer stations, meeting rooms, and collections open to the public.

The building was completed in 1907 with support from a philanthropic grant and replaced an earlier reading room that served the area. Its construction was part of a wider movement to expand public library access in early 20th-century Britain.

The library serves as a gathering place where locals come to read, study, and connect with neighbors. Its collections tell stories about Cardiff's past, inviting visitors to explore the city's history through archived documents and materials.

The building is accessible to visitors and offers workspace with internet access throughout. Before visiting, check current opening hours to make sure the services you need are available.

The building was designed with an unusual floor plan that brings more daylight into the reading areas than traditional rectangular layouts. This innovative design was pioneering among British libraries of its time and reflected new thinking about how public reading spaces should be built.

Location: Cardiff

Location: Cathays

Inception: 1906

Architectural style: Gothic Revival

Elevation above the sea: 26.7 m

Address: Cathays and Heritage Library, Fairoak Road, Cathays, Cardiff, South Glamorgan, CF24 4PW, Wales

Website: https://cardiff.gov.uk/ENG/resident/Libraries-and-archives/Find-a-library/Pages/Cathays-Library.aspx

GPS coordinates: 51.49740,-3.18213

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:46