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Description
Morrab Library is an independent library in Penzance established in 1818, situated in the beautiful Morrab Gardens overlooking the sea. Morrab Library is the only independent library in Cornwall, established in 1818. One of approximately 50 surviving in the UK, it is one of the largest, with more than 70,000 volumes and is strong in literature, history, biography, antiquities, poetry, art and travel. Its collections include an extensive Cornish collection. There is a collection of 3,000 Napoleonic ephemera and memorabilia, which has been previously described as “the only great Napoleonic collection in the world”; whilst the library’s photographic archive has a digital catalogue of over 15,000 prints and negatives of antiquities, places, people and events in West Cornwall and further afield. [Lisa to add in re. the records and accessible newspaper archives/photographic is accessible, helpful friendly staff].
Location
Penzance TR18 4DA, UK
Detailed description
Morrab Library is an independent library in Penzance established in 1818, situated in the beautiful Morrab Gardens overlooking the sea. Morrab Library is the only independent library in Cornwall, established in 1818. One of approximately 50 surviving in the UK and is strong in literature, history, biography, antiquities, poetry, art and travel. Its collections include an extensive Cornish collection. There is a collection of 3,000 Napoleonic ephemera and memorabilia, which has been previously described as “the only great Napoleonic collection in the world”; whilst the library’s photographic archive has a digital catalogue of over 15,000 prints and negatives of antiquities, places, people and events in West Cornwall and further afield. We hold over 70,000 books on floor-to-ceiling shelves as well as archives and a rich photographic collection. The library contains a wide range of both fiction and non-fiction books in the rambling rooms of a delightful Victorian building.
Parking
Parking is limited to just seven spaces which are often fully occupied, but a space can be pre-booked by contacting the library. Priority will be given to blue-badge or infirmed members and volunteers.
Toilet facilities
There is an accessible toilet located on the ground floor. There is a smaller toilet (not wheelchair accessible) upstairs.
Accessibiliy Guide
The library is committed to improving its accessibility, and we welcome all visitors to our public events. However, we are aware of limitations due to the location and historic nature of the building, and are working to improve these situations where we can. ThA ramp is available on request to assist access. e main entrance to the library is accessed by two sets of stairs, a single step, and then another set of two steps. From this entrance, there is level access across the whole of the ground floor. There is an accessible toilet located on the ground floor. There is lift access to the basement, and level ground to the Newspaper Room there. Lift access is also provided to the first floor, with level access to the Photo Archive studio. However, to access the rest of the first floor, there are two sets of steps. Six steps lead to the Theology Room and toilet, and then a further five steps lead to the remainder of the first floor. We apologise that these areas are not wheelchair accessible. The first floor of the library is normally a quiet space, though the ground floor can be louder, especially during events. If sounded the fire alarm makes a repeated warning, and alarms emit a flashing light. A Hearing Loop system is available at reception. Assistance dogs are welcome, and we will be happy to provide water for them. We shall continue to strive to enhance and improve access throughout the library wherever possible.
Useful Contacts
Our Librarian Lisa Di Tommaso, Assistant Librarians Harriet-Jade Harrow and Emma Tanner or one of our Volunteers will be happy to help with your queries.
For general enquiries please email:
enquiries@morrablibrary.org.uk
For Photographic Archive enquiries please email:
photoarchive@morrablibrary.org.uk
You can also call the library on 01736 364474.
Mobility / Wheelchair Support
The ramp is available on request to assist access. e main entrance to the library is accessed by two sets of stairs, a single step, and then another set of two steps.
Vision Impairment Support
Are steps marked clearly/signed?
Hearing Impairment Support
The first floor of the library is normally a quiet space, though the ground floor can be louder, especially during events. If sounded the fire alarm makes a repeated warning, and alarms emit a flashing light. A Hearing Loop system is available at reception. Carpeted and so the acoustics are helpful for people with hearing sensitivity.
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