Work begins to transform Lewisham Library

The library temporarily closed in 2023 to allow for the refurbishment, which will expand on the award-winning library and heritage services by introducing brand-new features including a business hub, performance spaces, meeting rooms and a café.

The reconfiguration will offer improved accessibility and make better use of the space, creating a brighter, more open-plan environment. Dedicated areas for children and young people will be included, alongside stepped seating ideal for talks, performances, or simply relaxing.

Residents have played a key role in shaping the plans through ongoing engagement with community groups and a six-week public consultation last year which gave the wider borough an opportunity to share their views.

The library’s transformation is part of a wider Council investment in Lewisham town centre after it secured £24m in funding to deliver a significant programme of improvements, which also includes major changes to Lewisham Market and High Street.

Mayor of Lewisham, Brenda Dacres OBE said:
“It’s fantastic to have Rooff on board and construction now underway at Lewisham Library. At a time when libraries are closing across the country, we’re proud to be investing in our award-winning service.

“The refurbishment will deliver significant benefits for users and the wider community. Alongside core services like books and heritage, the new space will become a vibrant hub for culture and business, while also helping to signpost other essential council services.

“We know how much people are looking forward to the reopening, and we’d like to thank everyone for their patience and support as we restore this landmark and create a modern, welcoming space for all to enjoy.”

While the library will retain its current name, residents will be invited to help name six internal spaces in the building.

Cllr Sakina Sheikh – Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture, Sports and Libraries – said:
“We are so excited to announce we’re one step closer to reopening Lewisham Library! Libraries are a core part of our community spirit in Lewisham and this library, in particular, holds a special place in my heart as it’s where I borrowed my first book and studied for my A-levels.

So many of our residents have such fond memories of Lewisham Library and we want to ensure they can continue to create special memories here in the future. We want our communities to be at the heart of making this flagship venue a success and will be inviting residents to help us name the library’s meeting rooms, ensuring the new space reflects the voices of the people who use it.

I am so proud that we are enhancing the offer of this flagship building for the borough, safeguarding it for future generations. We hope it can continue to be a place where our communities come together – whether it's for cultural performances, business, networking, reading, studying, or socialising. It's coming back, better than ever!"

Rooff Construction Limited, the contractors leading the renovation, also delivered the successful refurbishment of Broadway Theatre in Catford.

Construction is expected to be completed by autumn 2026.