A monumental corner entrance and figures of learning give a neighbourhood library the architectural presence of a civic institution.
Quick facts
- Date
- Built in 1904; opened as a public library in 1908
- Architect / designer
- Frank Thomson; sculpture by Albert Hodge
- Type
- Edwardian Baroque red-sandstone library on a triangular corner site
- Designation
- Listed building, Category B (LB25532)
- OS grid reference
- NO 38703 29852
Architecture and continuing use
Steps rise between giant Ionic columns to a pedimented entrance placed on the acute corner. Matching five-bay street fronts use channelled ashlar, alternating pediments and a balustraded parapet.
Its story
Frank Thomson designed the library during Dundee’s expansion of public reading provision. Later work improved access to upper rooms while retaining the listed exterior and principal interior character.
Why it is included
It demonstrates how early municipal libraries used architecture and sculpture to make public learning visible within a growing neighbourhood.
What to notice
- The giant Ionic columns framing the corner approach.
- Albert Hodge’s figures of learning above the doorway.
- Alternating triangular and segmental window pediments.
Reading the surroundings
The library publishes staffed opening hours and services. Access to staff areas and upper rooms follows normal library arrangements; hours can change on holidays.
Timeline
- Built in 1904 Frank Thomson designed the library during Dundee’s expansion of public reading provision.
- Present Active public library operated by Leisure and Culture Dundee.
What we know — and what remains uncertain
HES dates the building to 1904 while local library history records the public opening in 1908; both dates are retained for clarity.
Sources & further reading
- Historic Environment Scotland: Blackness Community Library, LB25532 — Designation category, mapped location, construction phases, fabric, authorship and architectural interest.
- Leisure and Culture Dundee: Blackness Community Library — Current public-library operation, address, services and opening hours.
- Leisure and Culture Dundee: library contacts — Current operator and contact details for Blackness Library.
Location
OS grid reference NO 38703 29852 · Location confidence: High: the HES designation supplies a mapped National Grid Reference and a current operator, council, court, school, congregation or institutional source confirms the Place relationship and present identity. · Select the marker to open its satellite view in Google Maps. On desktop, drag Pegman (the yellow figure) onto a blue road. On mobile, turn on the Street View layer and tap a blue road. Other photo markers may be user-contributed.
Suggest a marker correction
Suggest a more accurate position
The teal marker is the current published position. The orange marker starts slightly to its right so both remain visible; this is only a visual starting position. Tap the correct place on the map or drag the orange marker. Sending this form creates a private review entry only; it does not move the published marker.
Check this area in Google Maps Choose the Satellite layer there if useful.
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors. You can also enter checked coordinates below.