A welcoming local library
4
4
Date of visit: November 2025
I am a disabled person. I have experience of challenges around: a hidden impairment, accessing toilets and moving around.
I use or have experience of: changing places toilet, disabled toilet, hidden impairment, powerchair, toilet with hoist, toilets, walking aid, wheelchair
Overall Rating
Good
Montrose Library is a welcoming local library. The building was first opened in 1905, a time when disabled access was not much of a consideration, but efforts have been made to modernise the building and create a space that is inviting for all. I enjoyed my visit, even if they do have my least favourite type of lift!
Disabled Access In and Around
Average
The building can be access from the street by a single step, or the ramp. The ramp has a handrail to the left and a railing to the right. The right door at the entrance is pinned open – the clearance should be enough for most mobility devices. There is a touchpad inside to open the second set of doors. The library has laminate flooring throughout the ground floor, which I much prefer as a wheelchair user. The venue was simple enough to navigate, and the lift is centrally placed. The lift is a clear retrofit and is a bit challenging to use unaided. There are braill buttons on the outside, and a ramp leading up to the entrance. However the door opens out at the top of the ramp, which isn't ideal. The lift could fit a powerchair user and another person, if they squeeze in. Inside it has my least favourite lift set up. A button that you need to hold down throughout the whole journey. I have decent upper body strength, but even I find it uncomfortable. On the second floor the access to the lift is the exact same. Unlike the ground floor, there is carpet on the first floor. It's thin however, so easy to push across. At the side of each reception desk, there is a small table which functions as a lowered desk. I didn't see signage for a hearing loop and it appears that there are no alternative formats in use. There is a decent offering of audiobooks, which is appreciated. There are computers for hire, a meeting space, and seats throughout the library The library also offers support for people who find digital or telephone communication difficult or who need help completing Blue Badge applications, housing paperwork or bus pass forms.
Accessible facilities: Lift to all areas, Step-free entrance, Seating at regular intervals
Parking & Transport
Average
I travelled to this place by walk or wheel
There is no car park at the library, but I did spot some on-street parking on High Street and Bridge Street. There are two marked accessible parking spaces, which are long side-on bays. High Street also has a small twelve-bay car park with diagonal spaces, but there are no accessible parking spaces here. The closest bus stops are on Bridge Street and George Street, a short distance from the library. Montrose Railway Station is 480 metres from the library.
Accessible facilities: Dedicated on-site parking
Accessible Toilets
Average
The accessible toilet is small but functional. Accessed via a sliding wooden door, it does not require a RADAR key. It is locked from the inside by raising the long handle. The toilet pan is to the right. It has white rails on either side and a white toilet seat, which stand out against the magnolia walls. There is space for a right-side transfer, and removing the bin would create extra room. The flush is on the transfer side as it should be. The red cord hangs to the floor. The sink has a small basin with a lever-style mixer tap and white rails on either side. The mirror is installed to the left. The room is big enough for a powerchair user and two additional people. It also features a baby changing table. The toilet was reasonably clean during my visit.
Facilities: Accessible toilet
Staff
Excellent
The staff were very happy for me to take some photos and document the access. They were on hand to answer any questions I had.
