Role within the Centre

A public lending library formed part of the original conception of the Barbican Centre and was included within the complex when it opened in 1982. Its presence reflects the broader ambition of the project to provide not only performance and exhibition spaces but also public cultural and educational facilities.

Scale and function

The library was conceived on a substantial scale and was intended to serve both the Barbican Estate and the wider public. In addition to general lending services, it includes a specialist music library, reflecting the strong musical character of the Barbican and its association with major performing organisations.

Position and access

The library is integrated into the Barbican Centre environment rather than presented as a separate building with an independent street presence. Access to it is therefore part of the wider experience of moving through the Barbican, and it is reached through the system of internal routes and external walkways.

As with other parts of the Centre, its location is not always immediately obvious to visitors unfamiliar with the layout.

Relationship to other institutions

The music library forms an important component of the service, supporting both general users and those with a more specialised interest in music. Its presence is closely related to the activities of the London Symphony Orchestra and the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, both of which are based in the Barbican area.

Daytime use

The library contributes to the daytime use of the Barbican, ensuring that the complex is active beyond the times of performances and events. It functions as a general public library rather than a specialist or academic institution and provides a wide range of lending and reference materials.

Overall role

While less prominent than the main performance spaces, the library remains an important element of the Barbican’s public function. Its inclusion within the development reflects the original intention that the Barbican should provide a range of public services alongside its role as a major cultural venue.