Handsworth Library

it used to be a great place to go in the 90s when you want to access a great variety of book, now because of the recession, it is lacking funds and it feels really miserable in there

This community library is lovely! I really try and visit a few community libraries because sometimes not many people take advantage of their community library at all, which is such a shame. In particular, Handsworth Library is full of community spirit and the staff is so helpful, especially when I walked in wanting to get them to put up some posters and distribute flyers to some of their families who attended their after school clubs with their children.
I visited the library again because I wanted to read their collection of Omar Tyree books. He’s a Black American writer whose books I love, as they speak about black relationships and provide an insight into the culture of black Americans.
I’ve actually spent around 4 hours in Handsworth Library trying to read most of one book that I couldn’t find in the central Birmingham library but could at Handsworth library. The library has nice seating areas located within the library, where people can sit and read or even do work. There’s also space for families to teach their children how to read and do homework with them.

Handsworth Library is a gem on the Soho Road. Set in an old building, what you find inside will surprise you.
Alongside the row and rows of shelves of books is designer furniture, beautiful windows letting ample light in, a community gallery space with work displayed by local residents, and a computer suite which is actually fully equipped as a video editing suite! All of this combines to create a space which is used by a wide range of members of the community, and is an excellent example of how libraries are having t diversify to stay open. Who would expect to find something like this hidden along Soho Rd?

Of all the libraries in Birmingham I’ve visited this one is one of my favourites. When this library had some work done it wasn’t to change the beautiful architecture but to reflect the vibrancy of it’s community in the décor. With bright colours and white to contrast with the dark wood, the décor is certainly a change for most libraries. Add into this the Phillippe Starck Ghost chairs and matching lamps and you wouldn’t be wrong to want to live in this library, especially if you love books.
Some may think this is all a bit fancy for a library in Handsworth and alienating to the locals but you will always find a host of regulars in there to read the papers, as well as a children’s play area and a suite of computers.
With all this fancy expect to see a security guard, however he won’t be all burly and mean. Let me introduce you to Mr Handsworth, he knows everyone and can keep you chatting till after the library closes, blending in perfectly to the laid back atmosphere of Handsworth.