Birmingham’s Central Library, located in Victoria Square, is one of the largest libraries in Europe with an estimated 30-odd miles of shelves!

In particular it is worth visiting the Shakespeare Memorial Room which houses a collection of more than 50,000 books relating to the great bard and his work. But please note that you need to arrange a visit in advance if you want to see this collection.

The rest of the library is housed on 8 floors, with the collection divided into subject areas. This main part of the library is open to the public for browsing, however in order to borrow a book you must be a member of the library.

Not quite so impressive as the library’s collections is the building itself – a vast expanse of concrete once described by Prince Charles as looking like an incinerator!

The main library is open daily except Sundays. Opening hours are 9am to 8pm Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 5pm Sundays. Admission is free.