Location: Brighouse Library Date: 14th December 2013 Camera: Samsung Galaxy Tablet
Some town libraries are merely functional, but the one in Brighouse is a genuine landmark—a beautiful, classical building that speaks of Victorian civic pride and a dedication to culture. This image, rendered in a warm, timeless sepia tone, captures the architectural dignity of the Brighouse Library and Smith Art Gallery.
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| Brighouse Library and Smith Art Gallery |
A Generous Legacy
The building itself is known as the Smith Art Gallery and Library. It owes its existence to the generosity of the local industrialist and philanthropist Sir Lees Knowles, who purchased and donated the land and the original building (Dewsbury Road House) in 1904. The library and art gallery were then established and maintained by a bequest from the Smith family.
It's a wonderful example of how the industrial wealth generated in Calderdale was often reinvested into the community's cultural and intellectual life.
Architectural Grace
The architecture of the main library and gallery building is striking, contrasting sharply with the industrial structures typical of the area:
Classical Features: The prominent portico entrance with its columns, the symmetrical facade, and the large, light-filled bay windows give it a distinguished, classical appearance.
A Grand Scale: Situated atop a grassy slope, the building is set back from the street, giving it a sense of importance and scale. It was clearly designed to inspire and uplift the community.
The Backdrop: While the focus is on the main building, you can just make out the distinctive, octagonal stone tower of the nearby Brighouse Town Hall in the background, anchoring the library within the cluster of the town’s civic buildings.
This sepia photograph perfectly suits the building's historical weight. It makes the white window frames and the light-coloured gritstone truly glow against the dark, moody sky, inviting the viewer into a space dedicated to knowledge and art.