Reading Central Library

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Reading Central Library has something for everyone. Whether you want to find a good read, information on your family history or information on a particular topic we will do our best to help!

Reading has had a Central Public Library for over 100 years, and as a result, has a rich collection of old periodicals, reference and local history material. From 1883 until 1985, Reading's Central Public Library was in Blagrave Street, moving in 1985 to its existing location in Abbey Square. This location is on a site that was partly within the precincts of Reading Abbey, and is believed to be built where the stables were located.

Services we provide:

Arranged over four floors, accessed by lift and stairs, you will find:

Books - Fiction and non-fiction books, including a Bestsellers collection
A separate children's library
Spoken word cassettes and CDs
Music CDs
DVDs
Videos
Large print books
Books in other languages - Bengali, Chinese, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Spanish and Urdu
National and local newspapers
A wide range of magazines
Music scores
Free Internet access - 46 public terminals available
Word Processors
Access to the library catalogue
Photocopier
Fax
Study space
Notice boards containing information on local events in and around Reading
Sales - greetings cards, postcards, stamps, pens and reading glasses
Parents and carers can join the Toy Library and reserve and collect toys at Central Library