Hove Public Library

HOVE

TQ2804NW CHURCH ROAD 579-1/16/35 (South side) No.182 Hove Public Library

GV II

Public Library. 1907, cupola removed 1967. Architects Percy Robinson and W.Alban Jones of Leeds. Wrenaissance style. Ashlar Doultine stone, roof covering concealed behind balustraded parapet. Plan: flat facade to octagonal hall opening south onto radiating bays, west through 3-bay arcade to reading room and east through similar arcade to staircase giving access to rotunda. Two storeys, 3-bay main block with lower one bay wing left (east). The facade is embellished with some fine carving in low relief. Central open pediment with round-arched opening carried on Ionic columns, carving in pediment, recessed, tall round-headed window with fixed lights fronted by wrought-iron balcony; 3 circular windows on either side divided by carved fascias, linked above and below by ribbons and garlands, ground floor 3 square-headed windows flanking entrance under egg-and-dart moulded entablature with cherubs' heads as capitals. Carved panel over entrance inscribed Public Library, flanked by reading cherubs, Ionic columns, recessed entrance with half-glazed double doors. To the left the service entrance: 2 small windows first floor, semicircular panel over entrance carved with cherubs, double doors. Interior: full of spatial interest, also plasterwork detailing and moulded compartment ceilings with ornamented shallow dome to rotunda. The original painted texts advocating economy and the acquisition of knowledge have been removed. There was also an open air reading garden on the roof of the library when it first opened. The erection of this library was made possible by a donation from Andrew Carnegie in 1903. Of the many public libraries erected in the years prior to the First World War, this has one of the most attractive facades. (Middleton J: A History of Hove: 1979-).

Listing NGR: TQ2847804787