Welcome to the Library

The Library brings together photographs, films and other archival documents related to Liverpool's oldest city centre building. Explore the Bluecoat’s rich history as the UK's first arts centre by searching past exhibitions and events, and discover the origins of our 300+ year old building that was founded as a charity school during Britain’s colonial era.

This section of our website brings together these strands alongside the stories of people who have visited, experienced and participated in our varied activities. As we continue to update the Library, you can help by sharing your Bluecoat memories with us.

If you're looking for a history of exhibitions, click here to download a pdf that lists as many as we currently know about. Help us fill in the gaps.

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