The People’s Palace

The people of Birmingham have watched with interest as the exterior of the new Library of Birmingham clad in a skin of aluminium circles became visible, but only now have we had the opportunity to visit the building which is being lauded as a Sensory Paradise.

The Shakespeare Memorial Room

I was honoured to be invited to a reception on the eve of the opening of the library entitled ‘Rewriting the Book’.  The dramatic building towers 9 storeys about Centenary Square and is already a landmark feature.  It is not only a library housing some 400,000 books but is also a cultural centre offering a theatre, exhibition spaces and places to read and relax.  The latest information technology is available to visitors with archives, including the BFI National archive, the world’s greatest and most diverse collection of film and television offered online.  The magnificent Shakespeare Memorial Room, having been refurbished to its 1880s glory, sits on the 9th floor inside the golden rotunda.

Since its opening we have flooded in to see the People’s Palace with about 12,000 people per day passing through the doors to see the architecture, taking in the stunning views from the roof-top terraces, browse the bookshelves and enjoy the art and entertainment on offer.  I think the building and what it offers Birmingham is quite magnificent.

We all know that this facility has cost a dazzling £189 million but now is the time for us to do our part by supporting the Library of Birmingham Development Trust – Charity number 1142137 with its aim to advance and support education, culture, arts, heritage and history by the enhancement of the Library.
For further information please email info@libraryofbirminghamtrust.org.uk

Judy Dyke
Director & Solicitor

Find out more about Judy here.