Leeds hidden gem.

On Commercial Street, Leeds is a real hidden gem. One I have walked passed numerous times and never noticed.
The Leeds Library is through an unassuming doorway in between the Co-Operative Bank and Ann Summers Shop. ( see extra collage)

The oldest surviving subscription library in the UK.
Founded in 1768 with Joseph Priestley as secretary. It moved to these purpose built premises in 1808.
The first floor reading room, and Thomas Ambler’s ‘ New Room’ extension are amongst the architectural wonders of Leeds.
My main photo is of the main room.

The reason for our visit, as well as to see the library, was to see an exhibition of photos and documents of old Leeds by The Thoresby Society.
This Society was named after Ralph Thoresby ( 1658 - 1725) the first historian of Leeds.
Founded in 1889 to encourage and foster a interest in the history of the Leeds area, to support and publish relevant research, and to collect and preserve material from the past.
It is based in the Thorsesby Room in the library.

Today was one of the Heritage Open Days which are all over the country in September.
So very glad I found out about it.
A wonderful morning spent looking round this amazing place. We watched a slide show of old photographs and saw many interesting old documents and books.
Certainly a place for anyone interested in the history of Leeds and the surrounding area.

PS. I first came across the mention of this library a few weeks ago when reading a book by Frances Brody, entitled ‘ Death of an Avid Reader’. A story set in the 1920s.
I mentioned this to the gentleman we were talking to and he said she was also a member of the Thoresby Society.