Family program
Family activity programme
A recurring programme of story sharing and creative activities for families.
Discover York's central library and archive, offering quiet study spaces, local history collections, and a welcoming cafe. Visitors can access public computers, attend digital support sessions, or join family activities and book clubs.
A central public library and archive offering quiet study spaces, local history collections, digital support sessions, and regular community events.
York Explore Library and Archive serves as a central hub for learning, history, and community in York. The multi-floor facility features extensive book collections alongside specialized local history resources and the city's historic archives. Visitors can access dedicated study spaces, a quiet reading room, and diverse community programs including digital skills workshops.
Visitors planning to explore the archives or special collections at the York Explore Library and Archive should identify specific research materials in advance. Please arrange an appointment or reserve items beforehand to ensure availability, as not all collections are accessible for immediate retrieval. Preparing your research requests before arrival helps facilitate a smooth and productive visitor experience.
York Explore Library and Archive serves as a vital gateway to local heritage and learning in the heart of York. Visitors can access extensive historical collections and the city's archives, making it an ideal destination for research. The multi-floor facility features quiet study spaces and a dedicated reading room, alongside public computers and digital support sessions. Regular community programs, including family hub pop-ups and children's storytimes, bring the space to life. An onsite reading cafe offers a relaxed setting to enjoy refreshments after a productive visit.
The history of the York Explore Library and Archive began with a subscription library in 1794, followed by the city's first public library in 1893. These services merged in 1917, leading to the opening of the current Walter Brierley-designed building on Museum Street in 1927. This structure was recognized for its **architectural value** with a Grade II listing in 1997. Following a major renovation in 2014, the site in York became the integrated home for the City Archives.
The visual story of the York Explore Library and Archive in York begins with its neoclassical red brick facade, distinguished by white stone columns and symmetrical arched windows. Visitors can preview this historic entrance before exploring the multi-floor interior, which houses quiet study zones, community spaces, and the city's local history archives.
Locate historic exhibitions and heritage sites in York.
Identify museums to visit in York that match your specific interests. Discover heritage highlights and local history exhibitions tailored to what you want to learn. Plan a highly personalized itinerary through the rich cultural landscape of this historic destination.
