The Deritend Library
A Victorian library built in 1866
Deritend Library
As part of Birmingham’s original plan to open five free libraries, Deritend Library was the third to open on the 26th October 1866. However, it did not receive a grand opening, as the new Central Reference Library opened on the same day. Constitution Hill free district library had opened in 1861, and the Central Lending Library in 1865. Deritend Library – or “The Old Library” as it is known today – is Birmingham’s oldest surviving library building as the only one of the five originals still standing.
Deritend Library in the late 19th/early 20th century, showing the main entrance on Heath Mill Lane.
The Annual Report in 1867 showed how successful Deritend Library had been in the first seventeen months. About 450 people used the newsroom each day. There they could read the Birmingham Daily Gazette, the Birmingham Daily Post, the Daily Telegraph, the Morning Star, the Standard or the Times. 2113 people had registered to borrow books, over half of them being under 20 years old. As can be seen in the photos, the catalogue is advertised because for many years readers had no direct access to the books but had to make a request to the librarian.
Deritend Library in the late 19th/early 20th century, showing the books stacked high on the walls.
Deritend Library librarians in the late 19th/early 20th century.
Deritend Library in the late 19th/early 20th century, showing tables and chairs for quiet reading and study.
Deritend Library in the late 19th/early 20th century, showing a reserved table.
Due to its popularity, the library closed for a short period in the late 19th century for enlargement and reopened in 1898. In 1910, like the other lending libraries, it was open from 10am – 9pm each day. The librarian at that time was A.T.Hancox.
Deritend Library under construction in the late 19th century.
After 74 years in operation, Deritend Library closed in 1940. The building remained closed for 30 years until the dilapidated space was bought alongside the Bird’s Custard Factory in 1990 and lovingly refurbished by Bennie Gray. In 2003, it opened as a conference centre and event space with a unique history in the heart of Digbeth. The building was then leased to another company from 2004 until 2017 when it was returned to its original owner.
Today, it is a beautifully preserved historical building hosting weddings, parties, corporate events and more - as part of the Zellig family in central Digbeth. We love preserving our history as the Deritend Library with the classic book collection behind our bar.
