These fantastic photos take you on a whistle stop tour of community libraries around Leeds during the 1990s. They showcase how a generation of book lovers, researchers and school children depended on their local branch for learning. Each photo dates back to 1995 or 1996 just a few years after the dawn of a new era - the age of the Internet. These images help illustrate how these libraries were a social hub for many communities across the city from Pudsey and Farsley, Chapel Allerton and Oulton though to Methley and Swillington, Osmondthorpe and Hunslet. They are published courtesy of photographic archive Leodis, which is run by Leeds Library & Information Service. They also run heritage blog The Secret Library Leeds, which provides a behind the scenes look at the Central Library and highlights from its special collections, including rare books hidden away in the stacks. READ MORE: Amazing photos of Leeds primary schools in the 1990s LOVE LEEDS? LOVE NOSTALGIA? Join Leeds Retro on facebook YEP RETRO NEWSLETTER: Sign up for our free monthly email digest of Leeds nostalgia
7. Meanwood Library
Inside Meanwood Branch Library which was housed in Bentley Primary School on Bentley Lane. This view looks from the adult library towards the counter with the children's library in the background. The library has since closed down. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
8. Shadwell Library
Inside Shadwell Branch Library on Main Street. It was formerly a Methodist Chapel and later a Sunday School. The building has been used as a library since 1929, initially just for two evenings a week while combining use with that of the Sunday School. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
9. Richmond Hill Branch Library
The former Richmond Hill Branch Library on York Road. It opened in 1983 and in 1995 was relocated to new premises in Richmond Hill Sports Centre on Pontefract Lane. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
10. Farsley Library
Farsley Branch Library on Old Road pictured in 1996. Houses on South Drive can be seen in the background. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
11. Cow Close Library, Farnley
Cow Close Branch Library on Whincover Drive at Farnley. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net
12. Cow Close Library, Farnley
Inside Cow Close Branch Library, situated on Whincover Drive. Bookshelves are on the left with a paperback stand in the centre and the counter on the right. | Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net Photo: Leeds Libraries, www.leodis.net