Libraries
Public libraries
Most towns in Britain have a public library. A library usually has a large selection of books and other resources, which library members can use and borrow for free.
Britain's First Public Library
The first public library in Britain opened in Manchester in 1852. Its first librarian was a man called Edward Edwards. Edwards attended the library's opening ceremony and two famous writers called Charles Dickens and William Thackeray were there too.
How to Join a Library
To join a library, go to your local library and fill in a form. You'll receive a library card which is needed when using library services.
Library Services
Modern public libraries have something for everyone. Most of them have audio books, CDs, newspapers and DVDs as well as books to borrow.
Mobile Libraries
Not everyone can get to a library. Some people live far away from towns and cities. Other people find it difficult to go out because they have an illness or a disability. Thanks to mobile libraries, these people can still borrow books.
Unlike most libraries, which store books in buildings, mobile libraries usually keep their books in a minibus. The back of the mini-bus has shelves for the books, and it is big enough for borrowers to step inside and look around. A driver takes the minibus to a certain place at a certain time, so people know when to expect it. They can return their books and borrow some more.
All Aboard the Library!
A school in London didn't have space for a library inside the building. However, everybody agreed that it was still important to have a school library. So, the head of the school, Graham Blake, decided to park an old bus on the school car park and change it into a library. Pupils helped to paint the bus, and after eight months, the new library was ready.
