Birmingham boasts many 'hide-aways' and this is one of my favourites - an oasis in the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a place of peace amidst the busyness.
As I walk round the paths threaded through the garden an overwhelming scent of a huge clump of curry plants wafts in my direction. It's a fitting reminder of the great strength of this multi-cultural city. And then, looking out across the vista I see huge plumes of smoke rising up into the air. A fire in Smethwick, and a poignant reminder of Birmingham's industrial heritage.
I'm not alone in the garden. There are hidden glimpses of humanity everywhere - a grandfather and his grandson parked on a bench, a young girl and her grandmother looking out across the city, someone taking an early lunch, a man taking a phone-call.
Other wild-life has a place here, too - a bird-box peeps up above the greenery. If you do visit the Library make sure you don't miss out the secret garden. You won't be disappointed.
