Last Days of Birmingham Central Libraray
For about three years it appeared that “The Friends of the Birmingham Central Library” ‘s campaign to save the old library was a successful one but as the news broke that it was not considered to be given the listed status, the dream turned to dust.
Birmingham Central Library, the current main library in the area was opened to the public in 1974 and is said to be the Europe’s largest public library. It is located in Chamberlain Square which is very convenient for access by all means of transportations. The library has always been controversial and attracted a lot of criticism and praise since before it was opened. In one of the most radical comments specially coming from a British, Charles, the prince of Wales pictured it “like a place where books are incinerated, not kept.” From the other side the building is described as the best example of Victorian and Edwardian construction which its true value has not been appreciated yet.
Ever since the rumors began that some high rank authorities are considering demolishing the Birmingham Central Library some of the brummies formed a campaign to prevent it. The hope for keeping the library rocked up when “English Heritage” made a favorable recommendation to the architecture minister, Margaret Hudge to the effect that the old library should be given a listed status.
Finally on 23 November, 2009 it came as a great shock to the campaigners that despite all their efforts and the advice of “English Heritage”, Hudge rolled out the expectations and undermined the building as “not of special architectural or historic interest.”
But it was not a sad day for everybody. The news, from the other side, was greatly welcomed by The Birmingham City Council and the majority of brummies for it paves the way for building the new super-library which is estimated to cost 195 million British pounds. Many praise the authorities just for having the audacity of suggesting such project amid one of the toughest recessions of century.
The construction of the new library will take about four years and thousands of jobs will be created. It is predicted that after a few months of opening it will turn into the busiest public place in Europe. It will be a flamboyant colossal structure with a vast area reserved for fashion stores, restaurant and supermarkets.
So before it is too late pack your bags and rush to Birmingham otherwise you might not get in time to be one of the last visitors of the good old library. But before getting on the plane or a train it would be a good idea to check out at least a few online resources for hotel reservation services and/or ticket booking.
There are so many great hotels and bed and breakfasts to choose from extra luxurious five star to economy and low price but convenient enough for a nice stay around soon to be “the place of old library”. A few of them are literary right around the corner of the Birmingham Central Library. Being just on the Paradise Circles accommodation and transport would be the list of a tourist’s worries.