The First 100 Years of Birmingham Public Libraries

Find out about the Free Library Movement and the impact it had on Birmingham through the early years of Birmingham’ Public Libraries with former Librarian, Richard Albutt, 29th April 6:30pm Stirchley Library.

The first library opened in Birmingham under the Public Libraries Act was the Constitution Hill Library on April 3rd, 1861. This library was located in rented premises. The opening ceremony was quite an event, with the Mayor hosting a breakfast for 300 prominent citizens before they processed to the library for the official opening.  Following the Constitution Hill Library, many other free libraries were established in Birmingham across the rapidly growing city.

Join us at Stirchley Library on Tuesday, April 29th at 6:30 pm for slideshow and talk, Q & A, refreshments all free!