When in search of a peaceful hour or two in the city, there aren't many better places to hang out than a library. Obviously the biggest draws are the abundance of free reading material and the soft chairs and quiet rooms in which to enjoy it. But if you're looking for something more, check out what else Glasgow's libraries have to offer.
The Library at the Gallery of Modern Art
Situated right in the heart of the city, this is the perfect place to relax after a day of sight-seeing or shopping. Tucked away in the basement of the gallery, visitors can browse the extensive Scottish section then settle in to read all about our fair city. The abundance of tea and cake in the cafe also makes it an easy decision to stay for a while. Then, when the snacks are gone, head upstairs to check out the latest art exhibitions and the variety of Scottish gifts in the shop.
Bridgeton LibraryElise Crombie
Step back in time with a visit to Bridgeton library and soak up the cinematic history of the (semi) original exterior. Set in a former theatre-turned-cinema, the film connection doesn't stop there: Bridgeton is home to Scotland's first BFI Mediatheque - a room full of individual booths where visitors can watch thousands of titles from the BFI archive, all for free. As if that wasn't enough, Robert Carlyle's latest movie, 'The Legend of Barney Thomson', was filmed right next door.
Glasgow Women's LibraryElise Crombie
A whole library just for women? Sort of. The Glasgow Women's Library was established in 1991 and is home to a huge collection of books both by and for women. They house multiple archives including the Lesbian Archive that originated in London in the 1980s, and coming soon is the National Museum of Roller Derby. Throw in a packed season of events and it's not hard to see why it's such a popular place to visit. Oh and don't worry, men are more than welcome too.
Mitchell LibraryElise Crombie
From its green dome-topped roof to its grand interiors, the Mitchell Library is a stunning place to explore. Now over one hundred years old, it houses a theatre, conference space and a huge local archive. But the highlight is definitely the architecture. Hours can be spent wandering the halls, gazing up at the detailed cornicing and down at the original stone banisters.
Partick LibraryElise Crombie
Admittedly this one is best for the traditional quiet reading time, but a visit to Partick is like a delicious blast from the past. Set over just three rooms - one housing adult and factual books, another for children's books and a third for computers and studying - Partick is the perfect place to drop in for a browse and to escape the bustle of the West End. On the way out, admire the name plates leftover from a bygone era.
See more things to do in Glasgow from Time Out.