The Leeds Library

The Leeds Library is the oldest surviving subscription library of its type in the UK. It was founded in 1768, following an advertisement placed in the Leeds Intelligencer earlier that year. The first secretary was Joseph Priestley. In 1779, James Boswell wrote, "In Leeds, where one would not expect it, there is a very good public library, where strangers are treated with great civility."

The library moved twice before settling in the purpose built premises on Commercial Street, Leeds on 4 July 1808.[2] This building is a grade II* listed Greek Revival building by Thomas Johnson with major 1880-81 extension to the rear by Thomas Ambler.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leeds_Library