
Best Destinations for Book Lovers in Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
1. Goldsmiths' Library
A historic library filled with rare books, manuscripts, and early printings. It offers a unique insight into the history of printing.
- Historic Significance: One of the oldest libraries in Leicester, dating back to the late 18th century.
- Rare Collection: Houses a collection of over 20,000 books, including many rare and unique editions.
- Research Facility: Open to researchers and scholars for the study of printing history and the history of the book.
2. Newarke Houses Museum
A museum housing a collection of books related to Leicester's history and local authors. It offers insights into the city's past.
- Leicester Focus: Dedicated to showcasing the history of Leicester and its local authors.
- Immersive Experience: Features a recreated Tudor house and Victorian kitchen, providing a unique historical setting.
- Community Engagement: Regular events, workshops, and exhibitions that engage the local community.
3. Leicester Cathedral Library
A library with a collection of books focusing on religion, theology, and Church history. It offers a spiritual experience.
- Spiritual Atmosphere: Located within Leicester Cathedral, providing a serene and spiritual environment.
- Historical Significance: Houses books dating back to the medieval period, offering insights into Church history.
- Research Facility: Open to researchers and scholars for the study of religion, theology, and Church history.
4. Abbey Park Library
A public library located in a beautiful park setting, offering a peaceful environment for reading.
- Park Setting: Located within Abbey Park, providing a tranquil and picturesque environment.
- Community Hub: A hub for the local community, offering a wide range of books, events, and activities.
- Outdoor Reading Space: Features outdoor seating areas, perfect for reading during warm weather.
5. Leicester Adult Education Service
A service offering a wide range of courses on literature and creative writing, catering to all levels.
- Course Variety: Offers a diverse range of literature-related courses, from book clubs to creative writing workshops.
- Expert Tutors: Led by experienced and knowledgeable tutors who are passionate about literature.
- Flexible Learning: Courses available at various times and locations, making learning convenient and accessible.
6. Leicester Writers' Club
A club for writers of all levels, offering workshops, readings, and networking opportunities.
- Writing Community: Provides a supportive community for writers to share their work and learn from each other.
- Expert Guest Speakers: Regular guest speakers who are published authors, agents, or editors.
- Workshops and Events: Offers workshops on various aspects of writing, as well as regular events like readings and book launches.
7. The Soundhouse
A cultural venue offering literary events, performances, and workshops.
- Cultural Hub: Serves as a hub for cultural activities in Leicester, including literature.
- Unique Performances: Hosts unique literary performances and events that cater to a wide range of interests.
- Community Engagement: Regularly engages with the local community through workshops, readings, and discussions.
8. Richard III Centre
A museum dedicated to Richard III and his connections to literature, offering insights into the life of this literary king.
- Literary Connection: Highlights Richard III's connections to literature, including his patronage of poets and playwrights.
- Historical Context: Offers a deep understanding of the historical context in which Richard III lived and ruled.
- Engaging Exhibits: Features engaging exhibits, including interactive displays and manuscripts related to Richard III.
9. Leicester City Library
A public library offering a wide range of books, events, and activities for book lovers.
- Book Collection: Offers a vast collection of books, including new releases, classics, and bestsellers.
- Community Engagement: Regular events, workshops, and activities for all ages, fostering a love for reading.
- Resource Center: Provides resources like e-books, audiobooks, and online research materials.
10. Leicester Library Service Mobile Libraries
Mobile libraries that bring books to communities without easy access to library services.
- Accessibility: Brings the benefits of a public library to areas that may not have easy access.
- Convenience: Services are flexible, with mobile libraries visiting various locations at different times.
- Community Engagement: Engages with the local community by offering book recommendations and literacy support.
11. Leicester City Archives
A repository of historical documents, including books, offering insights into the city's past.
- Historical Insights: Offers a deep understanding of Leicester's history through its collection of historical documents.
- Research Facility: Open to researchers and scholars for the study of Leicester's history.
- Unique Resources: Features unique resources like maps, photographs, and manuscripts that are not available elsewhere.
12. Leicester Mercury Archive
A repository of newspapers dating back to the 19th century, offering insights into Leicester's history and local news.
- Historical Insights: Offers a deep understanding of Leicester's history through its collection of newspapers.
- Research Facility: Open to researchers and scholars for the study of local news and events.
- Unique Resources: Features unique resources like photographs, articles, and advertisements that are not available elsewhere.
13. Leicester's Arts & Museums
A collection of museums in Leicester offering insights into various aspects of the city's history and culture.
- Cultural Insights: Offers a deep understanding of Leicester's culture and history through its collection of museums.
- Educational Opportunities: Provides educational opportunities for visitors, including guided tours and workshops.
- Community Engagement: Regularly engages with the local community through events, exhibitions, and activities.
14. Leicester Print Workshop
A workshop offering printmaking courses and facilities for artists and bookmakers.
- Artistic Opportunities: Provides opportunities for artists and bookmakers to develop their skills in printmaking.
- Unique Facilities: Offers unique facilities for printmaking, including etching presses, screen printing equipment, and a lithography press.
- Community Engagement: Regularly engages with the local community through workshops, exhibitions, and events.
15. Leicester University Library
A university library offering a wide range of books, resources, and services for students and researchers.
- Student Resources: Offers resources, services, and facilities to support student learning and research.
- Research Facility: Open to researchers and scholars for the study of various academic subjects.
- Special Collections: Features special collections, including rare books, manuscripts, and archives.