More changes in Central Library
Shorter opening hours
The library is now open at the following times:
- Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 10am – 6pm
- Wednesday 10am - 8pm (Please note that the computers in the Internet Centre and QuickNet will be switched off at 5.45pm as usual. WiFi will still be available.)
- Saturday 9am – 5pm ( Please note The Internet Centre is now open from 9am to 4.45pm on Saturdays.)
Floors 4, 5 and 6 and the Music Library are closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Business and Learning on Floor 1 is closed on Saturdays.
This includes subjects such as social sciences, law, education, science, technology, archives and Birmingham and family history. Please check our Guide to Central Library page for more details of which subject areas are affected by the changes.
Floor 3 will remain open but when the Music Library is closed, no staff will be available on floor 3. You will be able to access the catalogue and resources on the shelves as usual.
Remember ! You can access our online resources from home if you have a library card - Digital Library
Phase two changes
We recognise that restricting services in Central Library has an impact on our customers and we are doing all we can to minimise inconvenience. However changes are essential because, to keep on schedule to move in 2013, we must now step up the enormous task of sorting, cleaning, conserving, cataloguing and organising millions of books, archives and other resources.
We are also busy behind the scenes working on a number of other major service improvements for introduction in 2013. These include a new library management IT system, which will enable you to search the library catalogue faster, a radio frequency identification system (RFID), to help you find books on the shelves more easily and a brand new website, giving you access to the Library of Birmingham 24/7/365 from anywhere in the world.
More changes may be introduced in phases as we get closer to the move.
Reminders
Access to resources on the shelves only
Please note that we are unable to provide access to library resources that are not out on display (apart from archive resources). This is because we are preparing the resources in the book stores first.
Newspapers and journals
A selection of daily newspapers and journals are now located on floor 3.
Computers and study space
On the days that floors 4, 5 and 6 are closed, the availability of study space is restricted. To help minimise inconvenience, study space is available on the ground floor.
Accessible computers (for people with specific needs) are available in the Internet Centre on the Ground Floor.
Health Exchange and health information resources
This service is located on the lower mezzanine of the Lending Library (Floor 1).
Archive Searchroom appointments
If you wish to see original or fragile material that is only served in the Archives Searchroom it is essential to make an appointment, specifiying the materials you wish to see. Sessions are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays between 10am – 1pm and 2pm – 5pm. To book email archives.heritage@birmingham.gov.uk or call 0121 303 2468.
Other changes
There is some reduction to the resources, services and activities available in the Centre for the Child and the Lending Library, but they are otherwise operating as normal.
New features and service improvements
In Phase One, we began piloting some new features in the library, as part of a programme of service improvements in readiness for the Library of Birmingham. These include:
Business and Learning Centre (Floor 1)
A one-stop shop for all your business and learning needs. This is where you can get help and information on all aspects of starting and running a business, improving English and numeracy skills, studying for qualifications, preparing a CV and applying for jobs.
Take-a-break areas
You are welcome to consume your own refreshments, cold food and drinks only, in the designated take-a-break areas. These include the Library of Birmingham Lounge in the foyer area and in the former café area on the first floor (where vending machines are available).
QuickNet printing service (foyer)
A number of ‘QuickNet’ computers are available for Library members in the foyer and on the first floor (in the former café area). It is now possible to print from the QuickNet computers in the foyer.
What’s new in Phase Two?
Wi-Fi
Now available for Library members throughout Central Library.
eBooks
eBooks can now been downloaded to many portable and mobile readers. This does not yet include the Kindle. More information about eBooks
Stay up-to-date with the changes to Birmingham Central Library
Getting ready for the Library of Birmingham