Here stands Langside Library. Have you ever noticed the plaque outside? It commemorates the Battle of Langside.
Langside Library opened its doors in 1915. It was the last Carnegie library built in Glasgow. Andrew Carnegie helped fund many libraries.
But Langside Library was special. Architect George Simpson designed it with open access in mind. Before this, borrowers had to ask at the counter for books. They chose from a catalogue. Simpson’s design let people browse the shelves themselves. This was a first for Glasgow.
Step inside Langside Library and imagine the past. In 1977, a modernisation project was completed. The adult lending area got a new look.
In 1960, Glasgow libraries began upgrading older buildings. Langside got an extension. Reddish bricks were used to match the original sandstone. New fittings were installed too.
Langside Library even had an audio department. It had 5500 records and tapes to loan.
Langside sits on the site of the Battle of Langside. Mary, Queen of Scots fought here. The battle lasted less than an hour. About 300 men died. A large painting in the children’s section depicts this battle. Maurice Greiffenhagen designed it. Students from the Glasgow School of Art helped paint it. Sadly the children’s section suffered water damage when lead was stolen from the roof.
Langside Library has always been a community hub. It provides access to books and information. Libraries combat social exclusion. They give people a warm, dry place to sit. You do not have to buy anything.
Glasgow Corporation wanted to expand library resources. They could levy ratepayers a penny to establish free public libraries. This allowed them to buy books and maintain the libraries.
Andrew Carnegie offered funding. He wrote to the city. “Let Glasgow flourish”
Langside Library stands as a testament. It shows the power of knowledge and community. It is more than just a building. It’s a place where stories come to life. It is a place where history lives on.