The Library of Birmingham

[motherofarch]

The Library of Birmingham is great place to visit with little ones. As well as the Children's Library with its bean bags to slump in, there are two gardens, exhibitions and tactile art installations to play with. There's a cafe but you are allowed to take your own food in and eat it there. It's a whole day out - and it doesn't cost a penny to get in.

Sounds great, and I'm looking forward to visiting. Is the children's book section relatively separate so our (ahem) noisier, more active toddlers won't disturb the academics?

Yes, it is separate but the library is refreshing as there are quiet areas... rather than the whole library having to be quiet. So it has a buzz and social feel in most areas and you have to find the quiet spaces. More like a cool bookshop really.

I've finally had a chance to visit - it's lovely! I like the building v much, and the high ceilings absorb toddler shrieks v well (I sound obsessed! mine's going through a "phase").

But what's happened to all the books???! The librarian I spoke to said lots had been taken out, but there were vast gaps on the shelves in the pre-schoolers section - it looked a bit bald, but the massive teddy and toy gorillas made up for it.

The section for older kids was really good, and there's a useful section of books to help with behaviours/family situations.

Will definitely be going back. I've been adding some listings to this site for all the half term activities happening there - it sounds excellent.