We launched an updated edition of our Treasures of the Library leaflet this month, packed full of new information about key items from our Special Collections. Take a look by clicking on the cover image below – or read on for an excerpted lookback at how our collections came into existence.

Please contact us if you wish to view or access any of the items described in the Treasures guide: localandfamilyhistory@leeds.gov.uk | 0113 37 86982

A short history of our collections

Leeds Central Library’s special collections comprise of over 17,000 items. These we have collected in various ways since the 1870’s. Many have been donated or bequeathed to us. These might include individual items, sets, or complete collections such as the Gott Bequest and the Gascoigne Collection to name just two. Other items we have purchased, often from auction, because they have a specific and interesting link to Leeds and the surrounding locality. We also possess one of the largest and finest collections of Yorkshire material to be found anywhere in the country.

In the early decades of the Leeds Public Library the archives were all kept here but later, in the 1960’s, moved to their own premises in Sheepscar. At which point many items of historic importance went to these new premises. Eventually, they would amalgamate with archives from other local areas, Wakefield, Leeds, Bradford, Calderdale and Kirklees to form what is today known as the West Yorkshire Archive Service.

The items that were not removed to the archives and remain here in our collections comprise a hugely eclectic mix of manuscripts, printed works, ephemera, broadsides and even works of art. Our oldest items date to the middle of the 15th-century although we do possess a pair of what we call ‘fragments’ which have been dated at either 11th or 12th century! Some of our items are unique and, being irreplaceable objects pertaining to the history of Leeds, must be considered priceless. The William Boyne History of Leeds falls into that category.

You can browse the full set of research and collection guides on our dedicated page.