If you stumbled on this webpage, we assume you’re not looking for The Library (Bristol’s cocktail bar behind a bookcase) or the Library of Things (which lets you borrow everything from DIY tools to camping gear). No, what you’re after is a library-library; an education centre, a community hub, and even a lifeline to many. That’s why you should know about the best libraries in Bristol—all of which are free to use with a library card!
How do I get a library card in Bristol?
To get a library card and get a permanent membership, visit any of the 27 Bristol libraries with proof of address (including a driving licence, recent bill, bank statement, or tenancy agreement). With this, you’ll have access to all Bristol libraries and across other LibrariesWest authorities, such as in Bath & North East Somerset, and South Gloucestershire. You can also use your membership card online at LibrariesWest.
The best libraries in Bristol:
1. Central Library
The Grade I-listed Central Library (built in 1906 by Charles Holden) is undeniably Bristol’s most breathtaking library. Influential in Edwardian Free Style architecture, it houses the main collections of Bristol’s public library, but is worth visiting just to have a look around—it even has its own cafe!
It does everything a regular library does: Browse and borrow books, use the computers and Wi-Fi, print and photocopy, or study and work without distraction. But you’ll also find a reference library on the first floor for everything from everyday newspapers to rare research materials on the slave trade in Bristol. Plus, discover the Central Library’s extensive art, drama and music collections too.
Bristol Central Library, College Green, Bristol BS1 5TL
2. Clifton Library
At the heart of Clifton Village, this stunning library offers all you need: free books, Wi-Fi, computers, etc. But stands out as a community hub, hosting a variety of events, group meetings and not-for-profit courses for the community. You’ll find everything from film screenings and craft making to tai chi at Clifton Library.
Clifton Library, 13 Princess Victoria St, Clifton, Bristol BS8 4BX
3. Redland Library
It may seem unassuming from the outside, but Redland Library houses a surprising amount of interesting literary events—including talks from writers like Tessa Hadley and Liz Brownlee to name a few. It’s also home to regular children’s activities and adult reading groups, as well as free internet and such.
Redland Library, Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Avon, Bristol BS8 2PY
4. Bishopston Library
A most modern community hub among Bristol’s libraries (replacing Cheltenham Road Library in 2017), Gloucester Road’s Bishopston Library has everything you could be looking for—including study areas, free Wi-Fi and public computers, and a huge stock of children’s and adult books.
Bishopston Library, Gloucester Road, Bishopston, Bristol BS7 8BN
5. St George Library
While many Bristol libraries are hindered these days by reduced hours, St George Library benefits from extended access. This means you can get into the library using your library card, even when there isn’t any staff in the library (Other libraries where this is possible are Stockwood Library and Westbury Library).
St George Library, Church Road, St George, Bristol BS5 8AL
6. Bedminster Library
Located on Bedminster Parade, Bedminster Library has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and is active in supporting the community too. With a range of children’s activities—including Lego Club, Chess Club and Rhyme and Storytime—and many free community projects and workshops, there’s something for all to gain from this incredible library.
Bedminster Library, 4 Bedminster Parade, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 4AQ, UK
7. Fishponds Library
While not as pretty as the Fishponds Old Library, which is still available to hire, Fishponds Library is still one of the best libraries in Bristol.
Fishponds Library, Robinson House, Hockeys Lane, Fishponds, Bristol, BS16 3HL
And the rest:
- Avonmouth Library, Avonmouth Road, Avonmouth, Bristol, BS11 9EN
- Bishopsworth Library, Bishopsworth Road, Bedminster Down, Bristol, BS13 7LN
- Filwood Library, Filwood Broadway, Knowle, Bristol, BS4 1JN
- Hartcliffe Library, Peterson Avenue, Hartcliffe, Bristol, BS13 0BE
- Henbury Library, Crow Lane, Henbury, Bristol, BS10 7DR
- Henleaze Library, Northumbria Drive, Henleaze, Bristol, BS9 4HP
- Hillfields Library, Summerleaze, Speedwell, Bristol, BS16 4HL
- Horfield Library, Filton Avenue, Horfield, Bristol, BS7 0BD
- Junction 3 Library, Baptist Mills Court, Easton, Bristol, BS5 0FJ
- Knowle Library, Broad Walk, Knowle, Bristol, BS4 2QU
- Lockleaze Collection Point, The Hub, Gainsborough Square, Lockleaze, Bristol, BS7 9FB
- Marksbury Road Library, Marksbury Road, Bedminster, Bristol, BS3 5LG
- Sea Mills Library, Sylvan Way, Sea Mills, Bristol, BS9 2NA
- Shirehampton Library, Station Road, Shirehampton, Bristol, BS11 9TU
- Southmead Library, Southmead House, 256 Greystoke Avenue, Southmead, Bristol, BS10 6BQ
- St Pauls Library, Grosvenor Road, St Pauls, Bristol, BS2 8XJ
- Stockwood Library, Stockwood Road, Stockwood, Bristol, BS14 8PL
- Westbury Library, Falcondale Road, Westbury, Bristol, BS9 3JZ
- Whitchurch Library, Oatlands Avenue, Whitchurch, Bristol, BS14 0SX
- Wick Road Library, Wick Road, Brislington, Bristol, BS4 4HE