The Old Library, Cardiff

The Old Library in Cardiff is a historic edifice recognized as a Grade II* listed building. Situated in the heart of the city at the northern end of The Hayes, it was originally established as the Cardiff Free Library and served as the Central Library until 1988. Since then, it has been repurposed for various uses and currently houses the Cardiff Story Museum and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama as of 2021.

Constructed between 1880 and 1882, the library was initially celebrated with a grand opening on 31 May 1882, marked by a public holiday and a procession. This 1882 structure measured 55 feet by 108 feet and featured multiple functional layers: a public library on the ground floor, educational facilities on the first floor, and a museum within the second-floor roof space, supported by semi-circular arched iron ribs.

Following its expansion in 1896, the library's architecture showcased two main stories plus a basement and attic, employing Bath stone with Neoclassical style Portland stone columns. The symmetry of the south facade and the French classical style of the east and west elevations reflect its architectural significance.

Internally, the building boasted a decorative corridor lined with ornamental tiles illustrating the four seasons and transitions from night to morning, creating a mosaic effect. Notably, the library also retained its original vertical tubed heaters, a rare feature made by William Graham of London.

Originally a library, the building shifted to hosting artist studios after closing in 1988. It then transformed into the Centre for Visual Arts in 1999 but closed in 2000. Throughout the 2000s, it held temporary exhibitions and in 2015, part of the space became a Welsh language center, featuring a cafe bar and classrooms, and coordinating activities for the Tafwyl festival.

In November 2021, the entire building was leased to the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama, earmarked for use as additional performance spaces, furthering its legacy as a centerpiece of cultural and educational activity in Cardiff.