Overview

Hulme High St Library is small but functional for a local library. Part of the larger Hulme Library and Leisure Centre, it's a modest community hub with public-use computers and an accessible toilet."

Transport & Parking

There are several parking bays on the street, as well as pay-and-display parking across the road from the entrance. Underground parking facilities are also available, but make sure to check for charges first. Despite the busy location, there are no buses that go up Hulme High Street, though the 85, 85A, and 720 services stop on nearby Greenheys Lane West, which is a three-minute walk away.

Access

The building is accessed through large automatic sliding doors. On your left as you enter, there are seats and power outlets, which can be used to charge phones, tablets, and powered mobility devices. Past this entrance, to the left of the leisure centre's reception desk, you'll find the library. The signage is clear, and the front desk is immediately on your right as you enter. The desk is only staffed on certain days, so don't be alarmed if no one is there when you arrive. If you need assistance, the leisure centre staff can help. The desk does not have a lowered section. Many of the facilities, such as book borrowing, returns, and copying, are self-service. The self-checkout terminals are at a reasonable height and accessible from a seated position. There is seating throughout the library and six public-use PCs on the ground level, with additional ones up a few steps. I couldn't confirm if the computers have accessibility features or specific software installed. Additionally, I didn’t notice a hearing loop anywhere in the library. There are no braille or large print books at this location, but I understand that a local service, Books To Go, allows you to order these online for pick-up at the library."

Toilets

There's an accessible toilet to the right of the check-in desk. The door opens outwards and requires a RADAR key to enter. The leisure centre staff have access to a key if you don't have your own. There's a sign on the inside of the door that instructs users to leave the door open once they've used the toilet, as it locks after each use, which I'd have thought was the point of a RADAR lock. I closed it all the same, but I found that to be unusual. The toilet is on the rear wall and doesn't contrast with the wall, although the blue grab rails do. This also goes for the low, small sink, which features a lever-style tap. The flush is located on top of the cistern, and the red cord is on your right when seated. I'm glad to say the cord wasn't tied up. There's space for a right-side transfer, with plenty of room in the transfer space. The toilet is spacious enough to accommodate several carers. In all, it's a well-maintained toilet and provides the basic services you'd expect. It's also worth noting that there is a Changing Places toilet at the leisure centre, although it's through the changing rooms in the pool area.

Staff

I didn't speak to the library staff, but the leisure centre staff were happy to show me around.

Photos