Those nine cast stone plaques. They whisper stories of New Malden Library. This unassuming building holds a hidden history. A history etched in stone. A history waiting to be unveiled.
New Malden Library isn’t just a place to borrow books. It’s a Grade II listed building. Architecturally significant. It opened in 1941. Designed by A R Goldthorp and F C Otton. It stands as a testament to the interwar era. Its brick facade speaks volumes. Its original fixtures remain largely intact.
But the true magic lies in those nine plaques. Thomas Mewburn Crook created them. Each one represents a Dewey Decimal classification. Philosophy. Religion. Sociology. Philology. Natural science. Applied science. Fine arts. Literature. History. They adorn the exterior walls. A silent testament to the breadth of knowledge held within. They’re a subtle nod to the library’s purpose. A gateway to countless worlds.
Imagine the artisans at work. Carefully crafting each detail. The weight of the stone. The precision of their tools. The pride in their creation. Each plaque tells a silent story. It’s a story of craftsmanship. A story of dedication. A story of the library’s commitment to knowledge.
And then there’s the Caxton relief panel. A 30-inch square masterpiece carved from Australian Satinwood. It depicts William Caxton and his printing press. A celebration of the written word. A nod to the library’s role in preserving history. A reminder of the power of books. Of stories. Of knowledge.
This library is more than just a building. More than just a collection of books. It’s a living testament to the community it serves. It’s a place where stories are written. Where knowledge is shared. Where history is preserved. Visit New Malden Library. Explore its hidden depths. Discover its untold stories. The plaques are waiting to share their secrets.