Today I visited the Library of Birmingham for the first time. When I first set eyes on the circular metal cladding (months ago) I didn’t like it at all. Somehow it makes more sense to me now, having been inside the building and up close to the cladding. The design has definitely grown on me; I now think of it as an unusual and inspiring building.

There is lots of light and space inside and it feels very clean and modern, futuristic even. I expect the new library to attract lots of young people, with its funky chairs and beanbags for the kids. Hopefully its primary purpose will still be as a place for people to gain knowledge.