We have lost count of the number of visitors who float down to earth from our childrens department in a state of euphoric amazement. It is one of Winchester's better known secrets, with some 15000 childrens books in stock, probably unrivalled in the south of England. And there is nearly always helpful and knowledgeable advice on hand to help you if you are spoiled for choice.

Well-organized so that librarians can find their way round quickly and easily, the stock divides fairly equally between fiction and non-fiction.
Fiction is organized alphabetically by author in different age-bands: board books for toddlers, picture books for 3s and over, paperback fiction for younger readers, 8-11s and 12+. There are sections for first readers and for reluctant readers. And you will find a mouth-watering selection of gift books, hardback picture books, favourite classics, myths and legends.

The range of non-fiction is truly awesome - its hard to find a subject that isn't covered. It includes a large section of educational books aimed at primary teachers.

For the young poetry enthusiast there is a wealth of titles. We also have an impressive selection of Shakespeare for younger age groups.