Central Library

Hello and welcome to the Central Library. This splendid Grade II listed building was a gift to the town in 1885 by Edward Pease, a leading Darlington Quaker. The building was further extended in 1933 to its present size.  Refurbishment in 2002 provided an entrance with a lift, automatic doors, and a new desk layout, making us a wonderful example of tradition and technology.

The building now houses the Central Lending Department, Reference Library and Centre for Local Studies.  The Community Learning services are also based here, along with administration and support for the library service.

Central Lending services include a full range of fiction and non-fiction material including large print and books on tape for the partially sighted.  Novels are arranged alphabetically, although some types may be shelved separately. Non-fiction books are arranged by subject, but do not worry the friendly and skilled staff will help you find information, that special book, or just a good read.

If you are feeling adventurous you can use the Viewpoint computers in the library to look at the catalogue of books and audio materials, reserve and renew your books, look at your borrower record, and look at the Community Information files of local services. 

Access all of these on-line services here.

Frequently during the year we hold informal events and coffee mornings, where books take centre stage and we enter the world of escapism.  These events are thoroughly enjoyed by staff, borrowers and visitors, so come and join us at Darlington Central Library where, we certainly look forward to seeing you.