How to use the library
There are many ways to engage with the library and our collection, you can drop in as a visitor, book a reading room appointment, hire us as a venue, become a member of our Radical Reader scheme or attend a tour.
Exhibitions and Displays
The library is open to drop in visitors on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons from 1.00pm to 4.30pm. Entry is free. Come and explore our display spaces that show a selection of objects from our archive. We also have a temporary exhibition space that displays a new exhibition twice a year.
Use the Reading Room
We are open for appointments in the reading room from 10am -4pm, Tuesday to Friday. Students, researchers, members of the public and any other person interested in working class history is welcome to use the reading room to access our library and archive collection. An appointment must be made at least 3 working days in advance, using the reading room appointment form.
During your appointment our Library Assistant will bring material to you to see in the Reading Room. The layout of the building means it is not possible for readers to browse the shelves themselves. You can use the online collection catalogue to find library and archive material that you would like to see.
Library tours
Learn more about the history of the library and our building on our weekly guided tour.