Lister Steps Charity brings entertaining programme to The Old Library, Liverpool

Since 1905, The Old Library has been a symbol of hope in L13.

Funded by wealthy philanthropist Andrew Carnegie (yes the same guy who has Carnegie hall in New York City named after him) the Old Library was donated to the people of Liverpool as a safe space for learning and served four generations as a much-loved local library until it closed & fell into disrepair in 2006.

With so many fond memories of the iconic building, local charity Lister Steps knew this special building was an important part of the community’s shared heritage and in 2012, they embarked on the long journey to bring it back to life.

Thanks to funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund and support from Liverpool City Council, The Old Library was repaired, restored & re-designed into a multi-use venue for events, learning and fun.

Primarily used for secure childcare services, Lister Steps is also committed to bringing people together, providing new experiences & opportunities and creating a safe, inclusive space where everyone is welcome. 

With a range of events & activities throughout the year, their ever-changing programme is grounded in the ideas of their visitors and conversations with the local community.

Kieran McCarthy-Hoare, events sales manager for Lister Steps said:

“It has been a really exciting time for us, we have so much going on at the moment to engage the local community, and also the city as a whole. On the last Friday of every month, The Carnegie Hall Concert Series will take place in our beautiful building. 

“The event last month was a sell out and our next one is set to do the same- A Tribute to Sinatra & Count Basie is set to do the same. The Readers are back with more tracks from the Great American song book, as well as a selection of tracks made famous by the legendary partnership these jazz and swing legends.” 

Your ticket allows Lister Steps to continue their broader community work within L13 and the wider community of Old Swan and beyond. As a registered charity they rely on a mixture of public and private donations to continue their vital work.

Kieran added: 

“The onsite café will feature their own concerts with Rob & Rob playing 31 March, The Old Library Quiz launches this month on March 16, there will be a special Mother’s Day afternoon tea on March 19, and so much more!”

A Tribute to Sinatra & Count Basie will take place on March 24 at 7.00pm. Tickets are £10.

To book your ticket for the latest Carnegie Hall Concert click here, and if you would like to find out more about The Old Library and Lister Steps check out their website here.