Libraries in Britain are provided by the local councils. Even quite small towns have one, and there are also mobile libraries which travel out to really remote places.

I think a few public libraries were started by philanthropists in the 19th century and then later on as the state education system developed, councils started libraries towards the end of the century. When I was living in Willesden (NW London) in the early 80s, the library celebrated its centenary.

Bingley

Bingley