Inside a Forgotten Library brought back to life | Black Country Living Museum

Today we’re stepping inside Woodside Library, newly opened at the Black Country Living Museum, a beautifully restored historic building that tells the story of free public libraries and the people who used them. Originally opened in Dudley in 1894, Woodside Library served its local community for over a century before being carefully dismantled and rebuilt at the museum. Set in 1963, this space reflects a time when libraries had become an essential part of everyday life, offering free access to books, newspapers, and knowledge for people of all backgrounds. In this video, we explore what a “free library” meant in the past, why access to books was so important, and how places like this supported working communities. From the adult reading room to the children’s library, this is a story about learning, opportunity, and the simple joy of reading. We also look at the work of librarian Tom Tarry and the Dudley Library Circle, a hugely successful scheme in the early 1960s that encouraged children to read, share ideas, and develop a lifelong love of books. ✨ At the end of the video, I’ve included 15 minutes of additional footage from some of my favourite homes at The Black Country Museum filmed in a calm, ASMR style with no talking, for anyone who enjoys a slower, more immersive experience. It's just a little bonus. As always, thank you for watching and for being part of such a thoughtful and supportive community. If you are not already please consider subscribing it really helps me continue to create, curate and share social history with you all.