The Public Library

The Public Library, located on College Road in Perry Common, was built in 1934 by J P Osbourne for Birmingham City Council. This public library features a fan-shaped plan on a corner site and is primarily a single-storey structure with a raised central area above the issue desk, while a second storey is present at the front and sides but not visible from the outside. The building is constructed of red brick on a steel frame, and the roof is not visible.

The library has a concave front at the corner, showcasing original timber outer doors with bronze knockers set in a fluted stone surround beneath a round brick arch with a keystone. The tympanum displays stone reliefs of the lamp of knowledge flanked by books. The splayed side walls are adorned with seven small paned windows that sit under gauged brick heads with keystones.

Inside, the library retains many original features. The entrance hall is octagonal, decorated with cream and green tiles, and features an art deco style ceiling with concealed lighting troughs. A terrazzo floor lies beneath the carpet. Original metal windows and timber doors connect to the main lending library. The 1934 issue desk provides sightlines around the fan-shaped library space, where original bookstacks are arranged radially and against the walls. The lower wing houses a children's library with original bookcases, while the opposite wing, formerly the reading room, now serves as a community room with panelling. A simple yet stylised timber stair leads to staff areas on the first floor. At the rear, a single-storey staff range features a curved corridor with green tiled walls. This library is noted for being a deceptively elaborate and complete example of a 1930s public library, with its art deco entrance hall and numerous surviving original fittings being particularly unusual.