The Leeds Library

Our History

Founded in 1768, The Leeds Library is a heritage gem and the oldest surviving subscription library of its kind in the British Isles. We have a fascinating history. We’re the oldest cultural institution in Leeds, and a thriving hub of creativity, ideas and inspiration and a book lover’s paradise!

Amongst our founding members were eminent doctors, surgeons, clergymen, leading industrialists and businessmen, alongside members of The Royal Society. Revd Dr Joseph Priestley, our first secretary and most likely the primary driving force behind the Library’s creation, was perhaps the most famous of these men.

A leading enlightenment thinker, radical preacher, and Fellow of The Royal Society, Priestley was celebrated for his experiments concerning electricity and oxygen—and the invention of carbonated water!

In the beginning, the Library occupied a back room at Joseph Ogle’s bookshop on Kirkgate and he became the first librarian. When he died in 1774, his daughter, Mary, was appointed Librarian and remained so for another 37 years until her death in 1813.

Over this period, the Library proved to be so successful that it outgrew this modest first home and moved further along Kirkgate to the Rotation Office. A few years later and a move to new premises was required once again to house the ever-growing collection of books.

In 1808, the Library moved to a new purpose-built home on Commercial Street where we remain to this day. Built by Thomas Johnson, the town’s leading architect, the grade II* listed building is a rare surviving example of a Georgian public library.

Our Collection

Alongside our historical collection, the Library has an up-to-date collection of modern fiction, travel books, biographies, history and other non-fiction totalling more than 140,000 items.

Members can access daily newspapers, magazines, films on DVD, music, and a variety of online archives, academic journals and databases.

We are particularly rich in travel, topography, biography, history and literature. There are long runs of periodicals, popular novels, children’s books and Civil War pamphlets and Reformation Tracts.

About 1,500 new books and audio/visual items are added every year, most of which are recommended by our Members. A friendly and personal service from our expert staff means you are never far from the right information or your next great read.