Mitchell Library, Glasgow

The Mitchell Library stands on North Street, drawing thousands of tourists each year – booklovers and sightseers alike – and when you see this impressive building, you will surely understand why.

Tobacco manufacturer Stephen Mitchell left funds in his will and a request that a library should be built and offered to the people. The building was designed in 1906 by William Whitie, who won the architectural competition set by the City Council. It was built in the Neo-Classical style, with a copper dome topped by a bronze statue called quite simply “Literature”.

The library contains five floors of reading rooms and over 2 million books. It is the largest reference library open to the public in Europe. A lending library section opened in 2005. It houses the Glasgow Archives and is also considered one of the best places to go for those who wish to research their family history.

In 1972 the Council bought the former Saint Andrews Halls, which had been badly damaged in a fire ten years earlier, and incorporated them into an extension for the expanding library now housing the main collection of books. An internal street on the ground floor connects the extension with the main library. There is also a very good café with free wifi.

Why You Should Visit:
Staff is friendly and helpful, happy to order in books or track them down at other local libraries if you're in a rush.
The library also hosts numerous book events throughout the year with some well-known authors giving talks etc.
You can research your family tree (for free) or look up old maps and property information in the reference library.
Add to take how beautiful the classically-inspired building is, particularly when lit up at night, and you have a real gem.

Tip:
The place can get very busy during exam times (December and April/May) – therefore go early.