Library Story

a history of Birmingham Central Library

by Alan Clawley

This analysis provides insights that can inform campaigns to save that most endangered of species: late twentieth century architecture . It charts the rise and fall of a truly remarkable Brutalist building, the Birmingham Central Library, designed by John Madin.

It is a story of fashion, local & national political shenanigans and the hubris of polititions.

Alan Clawley fought to save the library over fourteen years. He trained as an architect at the Architectural Association in London, graduating in 1969. He devoted his life to environmental and social activism. Alan published a number of books on Birmingham architecture and is best known for his monograph on John Madin.

Format: Paperback

Physical Size: 210 x 150 mm

Pages: 216