A monument to local architectural history

Have you ever explored the Ken Norrish Architecture Collection at the Portsmouth History Centre in the Central Library, Guildhall Square?  It comprises an eclectic mix of books, which the book plates inside explain were donated by his wife Georgette Norrish, “To inspire architects.”

Given its location, you might have expected a local architecture focus to the collection, until you realise Ken Norrish headed up Portsmouth City Architect’s Department, who designed the Central Library building (also known as the Norrish Building). Opened in 1976, its Brutalist form contrasts with the neo-classical architectural style of the Guildhall and other local buildings.  Perhaps the best view of what the architect intended comes when approaching the library from the rear, where its sweeping curved form is shown off to best effect.  

Anyway, back to the books. The Ken Norrish Architecture Collection includes books on the history of art and architecture, including 11 out of the 12 volumes of Frank Lloyd Wright Monographs, three volumes of Architecture of Sir Edwin Lutyens by A.S.G. Butler, which you can also find in the University Library in the Large Book collection in Area 2B (on the second floor, immediately above the other Architecture books). 

The Local History Centre has other collections which may be of interest too. You can discover local plans and information about buildings in Hampshire, alongside maps, local directories and books on local history. There is also an amazing naval history collection and the specialist Arthur Conan Doyle Collection.

Stop by next time you head into town

Next time you are wandering towards town, why not stop and take a look at some of these fascinating collections?  You could join the public library for free at the same time and gain access to huge swathes of audiobooks, ebooks, printed books, digital magazines and more to stream, download and borrow.  Any print books you borrow can be returned to any Portsmouth public library branch, from North End to Southsea, so there is always something to keep you interested.  If you hail from further afield, you can still be a member of your home town public library and Portsmouth public library as one of our students.  The public library collection complements the academically focused University Library really well, offering a much wider selection of pleasure reading and fiction than we could fit on our shelves, so it's well worth joining!  And did I mention it's totally free?