Public Library

The public library, built in 1914, is designed by Sir R Blomfield and showcases a French Baroque style. Constructed from ashlar and brick, it features hipped slate roofs and a leaded dome. The exterior displays channelled rustication, an eaves cornice, quoins, and a coped parapet adorned with baluster panels. The windows are primarily glazing bar sashes, each with projecting architraves and keystones.

The building has a prominent square domed center that rises two storeys, crowned with urn finials on the parapet and an open cupola. A projecting arched moulded doorcase, enriched with a keystone and inscribed lintel, leads to an oval window flanked by festoons, with additional single windows above. There is also a window with a segmental pediment and a crest in the apron. Flanking wings, each single storey, contain four windows, while projecting square terminal pavilions each have a single window and ball finials on the parapet. Each return features two similarly designed windows.

Inside, the vestibule is characterized by plaster wall panels, a dentilled cornice, and three doorcases with eared architraves and oval fanlights. The east side showcases a Doric colonnade with four bays and a central round arched opening. A screen wall with pilasters and a central round-headed window is flanked by single doorways. The book room features a plaster cross beam ceiling with a central light and fitted oak bookcases, with similar bookcases found in smaller specialist book rooms.