What if I told you this library is not just about books? Upper Norwood Library is more than just a place to borrow books. It’s a community hub. It stands proudly on Westow Hill in Crystal Palace.
Upper Norwood Library serves the community. It’s located where the London Borough of Lambeth meets Croydon. Lambeth Council primarily funds it. Croydon Council also contributes. A community-run charity manages the building. This is the Upper Norwood Library Trust.
Did you know Upper Norwood Library is part of the Lambeth library network? You can use your Lambeth library card here. It’s a unique place.
Let’s step inside Upper Norwood Library. Notice anything unusual? It’s home to one of the first Library of Things. This initiative lets you borrow objects. Think of garden tools, sports gear, and even toys. They also have electro-domestic equipment. Forget borrowing just books. Now you can borrow almost anything.
The Upper Norwood Library Hub manages the building. It’s the operations arm of the Upper Norwood Library Trust. They run classes and workshops. They also have community initiatives. You can even hire space for private events through the Hub.
Consider the history of this place. The Upper Norwood Library was built in 1899. It was a joint agreement between Croydon and Lambeth. It is the only independent public library in the UK. The library holds a special collection. This is the Local History Collection. It covers Upper Norwood and Crystal Palace.
Imagine needing help with a job application. Or maybe a passport. Upper Norwood Library offers a Book-a-Librarian service. You get one-on-one help from a staff member.
Do you enjoy reading? The library has an Adult Reading Group. It is friendly and sociable. They meet monthly to discuss fiction. New members are welcome and the books are supplied.
See the children’s area? Upper Norwood Library hosts baby rhyme-time. They also have under-fives storytelling sessions. The little ones love it.
Notice the variety of services here. There is Wi-Fi and computers. Printing and photocopying are available. It is more than just a library.
Upper Norwood Library even has a Safe Haven space. It offers refuge for anyone feeling unsafe. Staff can help. They can charge your phone. They can also contact emergency services.
Upper Norwood Library is a vital resource. It is a community hub. It combines traditional library services with modern initiatives. It is a place for learning, support, and community.