Culture

Can visitors tour the Gibraltar Garrison Library?

Short answer

Yes. The Gibraltar Garrison Library, founded in 1793 and run by the Government of Gibraltar since 2011, is open daily as a reference library and has offered free guided tours on Fridays at 11:00, with donations welcome.

Detailed answer

The Garrison Library was founded in 1793 by Captain (later Colonel) John Drinkwater, historian of the Great Siege of 1779 to 1783. Work on the present building began in 1800 under Governor General Charles O'Hara. It remained a military library until September 2011, when it passed to the Government of Gibraltar, and it now operates as a reference library and research centre, open daily.

What you will find

  • Around 45,000 books, including rare volumes and a strong local history collection.
  • The archive of the Gibraltar Chronicle.
  • Period reading rooms and a terraced garden.

Tours and visiting

  • Free guided tours have been listed on Fridays at 11:00, donations welcome.
  • Address: 2 Library Gardens, just off Main Street. Tel +350 20077418.
  • Main venue of the Gibraltar International Literary Festival.
  • A 3D virtual tour is available on the Tourist Board website.