Mechanics Institution

The Mechanics Institution, now a library, was built in 1881 and features a sandstone ashlar exterior with a slate roof. The building has a square front block that rises two tall storeys and is arranged in a symmetrical classical style with three bays on each side. A first-floor sill-band runs across the façade. The central porch projects forward and is flanked by pilasters that support a moulded doorway. Above the door is a raised panel inscribed "MECHANICS INSTITVTION mdccclxxxi," topped by a pediment.

Above this, the central section extends upwards as an oriel, which has corbelled quadrantal sides and is flanked by panelled pilasters. The oriel features a large round-headed sashed window with a moulded architrave, narrow curved side windows that are also sashed, and a decorative swag above the central window, all capped with a pediment. The outer bays contain cellar windows at pavement level and large tripartite sashes at ground floor level, each with cornices above. The first-floor windows are sashed and have pedimented architraves, with all windows featuring glazing bars in the upper panes. The building is finished with a moulded cornice and has chimneys on the side walls. The sides and rear of the building are more simply designed.