Considering the books within Putney Library, have you ever wondered about the history of this Grade II listed building? Putney Library stands as a testament to community, learning, and architectural charm. It is located at numbers 5 to 7 Disraeli Road. That’s just off Putney High Street.
The story of Putney Library begins in 1899. George Newnes, the founder of “Tit-Bits” magazine, funded its construction. Francis J Smith designed the library inspired by Norman Shaw. H. Roffey of Putney built it. Lord Russell of Killowen officially opened the library.
Originally, the library boasted a vaulted roof in its reading room. During the Second World War, the basement served as an Air Raid Patrol center. Wandsworth Museum was housed here from 1986 until 1996. The museum then moved and merged with Battersea Arts Centre.
A single-story extension was added in 1977. It housed a children’s library and a music library. The entrance remained in the original building. A significant transformation occurred in 1997. The 1970s extension was torn down. A new glass extension was added with a new entrance. Trevor Williams from Wandsworth Borough Council design service designed it.
The extension project cost £2,800,000. The floorspace increased to 2300 square meters. The original building’s stone face was cleaned and restored. The new extension earned accolades. It won the Mayor’s Award for accessibility. It also received the Public Library Building Award in 1999.
Putney Library offers more than 20,000 books. They are available to borrow for free. There are limits on the numbers at any one time. Charges apply for borrowing CDs and DVDs. In 2020, a book was returned to Putney Library after 56 years. It was sent from Athens, Greece. The book had been due back in 1964.
The library provides digital resources. Online reference materials can be accessed. You can use the library website or the Libby app. Inside, you’ll find computer terminals with free internet. There are study rooms for adults and children. Regular reading groups and other meetings take place here. Local councilors also hold their meetings in rooms in the building. The Friends of Putney Library organize events and exhibitions.
Putney Library is open at various times throughout the week. Ramp access is available from Disraeli Road. A lift is also available inside. The library is easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes serve Putney Station on Putney High Street. East Putney tube station is a short walk away. Putney railway station is also nearby.
In 2024, Putney Library celebrated its 125th anniversary. A £1 million refurbishment project was completed. It includes a bright, refurbished children’s library. A new Start-Up Wandsworth co-working space was created. Putney Library has evolved. It remains a vital resource for the community. It is a place for learning, gathering, and connecting. From its Victorian origins to its modern amenities, the library’s story continues.