The ground floor at Leeds Central Library has re-opened!
Our newly refurbished ground floor adult fiction and non fiction library is now open, with a fresh new look and layout and we are delighted to welcome everyone back. The new space has been designed to be more welcoming, accessible, and flexible, with informal study and meeting spaces and places to simply sit and read.
The temporary Children's Library is located on the 1st floor, next to our exhibition space. We are working in partnership with Yorkshire Contemporary and artists Joanne Tatham and Tom O'Sullivan to create a new artist-designed environment for children aged 0-11 and their families, integrating storytelling, shared reading, imaginative play and social interaction. This will open in autumn 2026.
Opening hours
| Monday | 9am to 8pm |
| Tuesday | 9am to 8pm |
| Wednesday | 9am to 8pm |
| Thursday | 9am to 5pm |
| Friday | 9am to 5pm |
| Saturday | 10am to 4pm |
| Sunday | Closed |
Available services
Central Library has a general lending section and a number of specialist departments:
Lending
On the ground floor you will find books including fiction, non-fiction, children’s young adults and graphic novels
You can come in, browse and:
- collect, renew or return a book
- use our computers
- visit the Tiled Hall Cafe
The Arts Floor
The Arts Floor is on the first floor of Central Library and includes the Music and Performing Arts Library, the Art Library, Studio12 and the exhibition space.
Heritage and Research
Local History Family History, Reference and general research resources are located on the second floor of the Central library.
Business and IP Centre
Located on the second floor, the Business and IP Centre has dedicated study space and access to a range of market research and company information databases. BIPC also provides free 1-to-1 support for new and established businesses. Get in touch to arrange an appointment.
Events
Come along to events in libraries for family fun, learning and culture.
Browse events at Central library.
Facilities
Facilities at the Central Library include:
- baby change units
- disabled access toilet
- public toilets
- free WiFi
- free computer access to the internet
- printing and photocopying
Access information
Bus routes
For information about local bus routes, please visit WY Metro external link.
Parking
There is no public car park. There are limited on street parking spaces available for Blue Badge holders only.
Entrances
You can enter the library from Victoria Gardens and Calverley Street. Wheelchair/pushchair access is through the Victoria Gardens basement entrance or the Art Gallery.
Lifts
Lift available to all floors.
Assistive technology
A range of assistive technology hardware and software is available for use on the public computers, including:
- screen magnifiers
- large keyboards, mouse and trackballs
Disabled toilets
Accessible toilets are located in the basement of the library.
Assistance dogs
All assistance dogs are welcome.
Contact us
Phone
0113 378 5005
Social media
Facebook: Leeds Libraries
Instagram: leedslibraries