Library
A library with an identity issue and a café (b,l; £)
The central library underwent a revamp a few years ago, and is no longer a worthy old library, but a youthful, exciting explore centre. Since when, the city council has divested itself of much responsibility in favour of a dedicated trust to run it.
It still has plenty of library books to browse (including about York), however. The library is a free wifi zone, and free online access is also available via computer terminals.
The library can be a handy place to call in for a break from sightseeing or the rain. The good children's area will be welcomed by families.
Check out the small shop with locally-sourced gifts at reasonable prices.
TIP explore also boasts a self-service café with drinks and light snacks at a lower prices than many other establishments.
Tip When leaving the library, turn right and pass through the side gates to cut through to a hidden stretch of the walls and Museum Gardens with the Roman Multangular Tower and creepy Roman sarcophagi.
Once behind the library, turn right again for an archaeological cross-section of layers of the wall, labelled from Roman ages on.
LOCATION Minster Area
Library Square, YO1 7DS,
www.exploreyork.org.uk
Café: 9am - 4pm (Mon - Thurs), 10am - 4pm (Fri), 9am - 4pm (Sat), 11am - 3.30pm (Sun)
Coffee around £2, main courses around £6