Retford Library

Retford Library also known locally as the Denman Library is a unique place. It is a fine Georgian building, once the home to local Philanthropist Mr Thomas Hercy Denman who presented the building in 1926 to the town of Retford for use as a Library. A Blue Plaque to commemorate Mr Denman’s generosity is located at the entrance for all to see. A recent refurbishment has enhanced and highlighted the original features of this beautiful building as well as creating a vibrant library space for all to enjoy.

The Library has a beautiful Heritage Room housed in the original part of the building; home to an amazing local archive. Delve into your family history with free access to Ancestry on the library computers.

The Children’s Library is bright and welcoming with a wonderful range of books to suit all ages. Every Wednesday and Friday morning the area is alive with singing and rhymes in our regular Rattle Rhyme and Roll sessions for the under 5s. Exciting holiday activities take place for children as well as some amazing live theatre performances. A separate Young Adults section has its own dedicated area. An interesting variety of modern table-top games to suit all ages are always available for families to set out and play.

The Library has well-stocked bookshelves throughout, as well as comfortable areas both inside and outside on the decking to sit, read and study. We have a wide range of fiction as well as books on all subjects along with reminiscence resources and well-being collections. A smart coffee machine is also available in our Heritage Room. Most importantly of all, friendly staff are always on hand to assist in accessing all the services provided as well as to chat about books and reading. Please ask our knowledgeable staff for interesting book recommendations just for you – we like nothing better!

Computers and free Wi-Fi are available for all library customers. You can book PCs in advance or just drop in to use. Several courses to suit all interests are held at the library by Inspire Learning so keep an eye out for any that take your fancy.

We have some fantastic groups and events in the library including regular Poetry Cafes, Crime Cafes, and a Writers’ Group along with a Craft Group and Reading Groups. Heritage, literary and cultural talks take place throughout the year adding to the vibrant life of the library.

There are two comfortable and well- equipped meeting rooms for general hire. We also have a Gallery for exhibitions and displays free to book.

For up-to-date information and to keep in touch with all Retford Library goings-on you can follow the Retford Library Facebook page

Come and see us at Retford Library. You are guaranteed a warm welcome and a safe place to read, learn and enjoy!