Local Studies Library

Bradford Local Studies Library welcomes visitors to use the Local Studies and Archives collections for study and research.

Whilst visitors are welcome at any time during opening hours, researchers are invited to make an appointment in advance of their visit. To make an appointment, please contact the library by email or telephone to book. Requests for items from the collections required for use on your visit made in advance will enable library staff to have the items ready for your visit.

To make an appointment, please contact the library by email or telephone to book a session.

Please note that we require at least 72 hours’ notice for Archives.

The library has automatic doors, and all areas are accessible to wheelchairs.

Enquiry service

It’s free to come and use our Local Studies collections but please read about our charges for some services such as research and photocopying.

Contact details

Please contact us via telephone or email:

Bradford Local Studies Library
Margaret McMillan Tower (side entrance)
Princes Way
Bradford BD1 1NN

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 01274 433688

Opening hours

• Monday: 9am to 1pm (lunch closed 1-2pm) 2pm to 5pm
• Tuesday: 9am to 1pm (lunch closed 1-2 pm) 2pm to 5pm
• Wednesday: 9am to 1pm (lunch closed 1-2 pm) 2pm to 7pm
• Thursday: 9am to 1pm (lunch closed 1-2 pm) 2pm to 5pm
• Friday: Closed
• Saturday: Open Alternate Saturdays (see list below for dates and times)
• Sunday: Closed

Please note: Bradford Local Studies Library opens on alternate Saturdays.

Alternate Saturdays for 2026

Saturday 9am to 1pm (lunch closed 1-2 pm) 2pm to 4pm

• January Saturday 3, 17 and 31
• February Saturday 14 and 28
• March Saturday 14 and 28
• April Saturday 11 and 25
• May Saturday 9 and 23
• June Saturday 6th & 20th
• July Saturday 4 and 18
• August Saturday 1, 15 and 29
• September Saturday 12 and 26
• October Saturday 10 and 24
• November Saturday 7 and 21
• December Saturday 5 and 19