Leeds

People walking up to a beautiful sand-coloured building with the British Library sign

 Creating a new home in the north of England 

We’re transforming one of the UK’s great architectural wonders, Temple Works – a 19th-century, Grade II listed flax-spinning mill – to create a new national library in the heart of Leeds.  

By establishing a new site at the centre of a city that champions innovation, we can open up opportunities, powered by our site in Boston Spa where 70% of our collection is stored. We’ll build on our partnerships with regional libraries to provide support for local people, businesses and entrepreneurs. Once open, we’ll welcome over 500,000 people a year to enjoy:  

  • state-of-the-art exhibition and event spaces which will host a vibrant programme of blockbuster exhibitions, public talks and cultural experiences 

  • a Knowledge Space with a Reading Room providing access to our world-class collection and social and informal study areas, allowing everyone to find an environment that suits their needs 

  • a dedicated learning and community centre delivering a rich programme for people of all ages, from all backgrounds 

  • expanded support for SMEs and entrepreneurs through a new creative industries hub, including collaboration spaces and a digitally enabled Maker Space to design, prototype and showcase ideas. 

How you can help 

We’re seeking the support of visionary philanthropists and partners to bring this incredible new building to life with state-of-the-art spaces and programmes for culture, research and business support. For more information about how you can help us transform our buildings and the lives of the people around them, please contact our Development team at supporters@bl.uk