Stalybridge Library

All libraries should be like this. I almost wish they didn’t have a computer room now. Some things should stay just as they were. The building is gorgeous and most importantly OLD and those swingy things that they use to count people in and out really do bring back memories of my childhood.
For a public library, they have a really good selection of fiction with a cute kid’s section. They also have a pretty respectable lot of records and newspaper archives where you can pretend to pay detective or something.
The Astley Cheethams gallery (one of a surprisingly large number in the area) has a good amount of old school watercolours and the room itself, which is upstairs from the library itself, is really dark and moody. They usually have a few choice items for sale as well — I wouldnt really call it a gift shop but you know what I mean.

If you want to know the history of the old town of Stalybridge then the library is one place on your list. Originally known as Astley Cheethams Library, it stocks old newspapers and history books about the town.
One of the grandest buildings in Stalybridge, it itself is steeped in history, so why not go down and have a look. You can research old lords and ladies and even read up on the cotton industry in the nineteenth century that dominated Stalybridge and other neighbouring towns.
The library also houses the locals art gallery which has permanent fixtures as well as fresh exhibitions.
The library is great for local schools to visit and spend a few hours learning more about the town they live in as well as participating in the gallery exhibition.
Go and see a magnificent building and learn something while you are there!