Description

As part of National Lottery Open Week 2023, The Leeds Library opens its doors and welcomes you to come and explore our beautiful building and its historic collection in our free volunteer-led tours. 

The Leeds Library is the oldest-surviving members’ subscription library in the UK. Founded in 1768, the Library moved to its current purpose-built premises on Commercial Street in 1808, and many original features remain in this much-loved home.  

From the Georgian splendour of the Main Room, with its Victorian sunlight burners, to the labyrinthian basement deep under Commercial Street, there is an unexpected treasure around every corner. And you never know, you may even meet the Library’s ghost… 

This event is part of the National Lottery Open Week and will be free to holders of a national lottery ticket. 

Please note: If you don’t produce a valid lottery ticket, a £5 ticket price will be charged for the tour. 

A note about accessibility – Unfortunately, our Grade II* listed building is not currently fully accessible. We have a stair lift from the ground floor foyer to the first floor but are unable to install a through-floor lift due to the building’s historic status. Please email us on enquiries@theleedslibrary.org.uk if you have any questions around access, and we will do everything that we can to accommodate you.  

The Leeds Library is committed to making its building and collections accessible to everyone in our current capital building works project The Next Chapter Project. To find out more, please visit the website HERE.