Wandsworth Council celebrated the £1 million refurbishment of 125 year-old Putney Library on July 19.
The grand re-opening launched a new Start-Up Wandsworth business hub, a renovated children’s area, and a café run by Putney Pantry.
In response to the cost of living crisis, Putney Library, which has served the community since 1899, is now part of the Wandsworth Council Community Spaces programme.
Councillor Judi Gasser said: “Wandsworth libraries have a record of being some of the best used in the country, with usage continuing to increase – so residents deserve to be repaid with the best possible facilities.
“But it’s not only about books, libraries can be a real focal point for local communities.
“So-called ‘third spaces’ offer a warm and safe place for people to come together, meet new people and connect with their wider community.”
A third space is defined as a communal space outside of home and work, a place to exchange ideas, and build relationships beyond family and colleagues.
Usage of libraries in Wandsworth is rising year on year, with over a million visits made to libraries across the borough in 2023, marking a 17% increase on the previous year, suggesting the investment was worth every penny.
Bristol University Press found that, as part of a border social infrastructure, libraries play a vital role in enhancing individual and community well-being.
The library offers many free group sessions, and there is something for everyone, including language conversation sessions, lego building activities and meditation classes.
The new business hub will include a series of workshops covering a range of topics such as writing, funding, and business models.
The upgrades made to the heating and door systems have made the library safer for all.
Open until 8pm some days, the library’s opening hours make it accessible to many.
More information on Putney Library can be found here.
More information on Wandsworth Council’s cost of living response can be found here.
Photo by Alexander Grey on Unsplash
