Liverpool Central Library, Liverpool

The Library itself deserves five stars. It carries a fantastic collection for my studies and (if you arrive early for first pickings) has quiet spaces to settle in for an entire day. I cannot fault any of the facilities and the quirky mixture of old and new is a splendid treat - nothing beats mulling around the Hornby Library and Oak Room during my breaks. Alas, I firmly dislike the cold nature of the staff I have encountered. They are set on avoiding interaction with some visitors at all costs and actually make me feel quite uncomfortable when it comes to needing anyone on duty for enquiries or help. Every time I have approached the counter to ask a question, I am usually just spoken over as they assume they know what I want or am dismissed as they claim busyness - even when there is no one else in sight. Eventually, I tend to give up and will walk away without the help I had sought out. This jump to the gun attitude really puts me off, and I feel as though the increasingly technology-forward environment they have set up just presents a precedent for the public to see to themselves and not bother their all-day social break. Furthermore, I also disapprove of the rapport the staff appear to be willing to build with older regulars that literally results in open mockery of younger users. I wouldn't mind the mockery so much if anyone behind the counter could bear to offer me five minutes to speak, and could perhaps refrain from labelling me as, what feels like, a "time-waster" - I guess that's one way to get rid of me! Having said that, I will still visit for the amenities until I have finished my studies.

Absolutely fantastic. If you're visiting Liverpool, the library may not sound like a good place to visit but it totally is! Not only is it a good place study, it's also a great place from an architectural point of view. It is a gorgeous and delightful blend of old and new. A must see in Liverpool.

A great location a wide selection of books and other facilities and a cafe! Great place to relax and unwind losing yourself in a good book or just checking your emails and stopping by for a few games on the Xbox.

Good place to visit for a peace of mind, to relax read, study and borrow books. As well as having computers for public use, you are able to use your own device and get access to free wi-fi, although be warned that you may have to request for the wi-fi password, I had to do this in order to use my tab, the staff are very accommodating and will assist you. There are ports on some of the tables to connect your device. On the ground floor there are very comfortable seated areas where you can purchase refreshments hot and cold drinks, packed snacks or fresh cakes. It is a very small shop so don't expect it to be like Greggs, it is sufficient and pleasant for it's surroundings. And most importantly there are abundance in literature available for every "flavour"!!! Oh yes and let us not forget that they have disabled access and toilets which are kept clean regularly by the cleaners, so overall it is a very clean and pleasing atmosphere!

Normally I would not recommend visiting a library but this one is special. A wonderful mix of the old and the new, with a huge modern library with a glass spire as its feature, nestled in to some of the old library preserved with its lovely reading room complete with circular balcony, wrought iron railings and stair cases to the next level. Just like something from a movie. If you are in the area take a trip in here just to look around.