Dulwich library closing for refurbishment

[claresy]

Thanks! I do use it too, if I know I want something specific. But I really like the experience of browsing and finding unexpected things too. 

[Renata Hamvas]

While Dulwich library is closed for refurbishment, the other libraries in the area have extended opening hours . Nunhead Library on Gordon Rd ( just off Nunhead Green) is open Monday to Friday 10am-7pm and Saturday 10am-5pm. The refurbishment of Dulwich library is likely to take 6 months 

[James Barber]

The planned closure of Dulwich Library for over 6 months to refurb and change the heating seems odd. The description of works does not seems to align with the expected length of closure. 

Some library authorities use shop fitters over December/January when they have no other work to undertake such library refurbs. The costs are especially keen as a result. And shop fitters are used to compressed time works. Win win. 

I would hope the works involve using the vacant unused second floor. Perhaps relocating the first floor librarian back offices there to make a bigger user space on the first floor.

[Graham Little]

Its good to hear concern for this amazing resource. If you ever visit you will find it full of Dulwich teenagers upstairs studying for exams, community is so vital for that generation. I am sure we dont want that to evaporate entirely. There is not much left.

With all knowledge of the huge wealth that exists in the area, it would be so warm and rewarding for some of that to be passed to Dulwich library. The ground floor loos were returning to a state of nature itself. Moss was starting to grow.  

X

[ianr]

The published planning application proposal summary runs:

"25/AP/1010  Installation of air source heat pumps; acoustic screening; pipework and trunking; replacement of radiators with air conditioning units; secondary glazing; replacement of non-original lantern roof; internal refurbishment including decoration, new fittings, toilets, kitchenettes, and remedial works to building fabric."

https://planning.southwark.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=SU76HIKBJGS00

The officer's assessment includes mention of an external buggy store, which sounds a good idea if it's for use by visiting tots.  I remember one morning when I found the ground floor part-occupied by buggies, even in a few book bays.  🙂

Edited November 19, 2025 by ianr

[Dogkennelhillbilly]

1 hour ago, James Barber said:

The planned closure of Dulwich Library for over 6 months to refurb and change the heating seems odd.

No, it doesn't. It's a lot of work and the library is a shagged out heritage building. You admit that you don't even know the scope of the work. It's not refitting a corner shop over the Xmas holidays.

Edited November 19, 2025 by Dogkennelhillbilly

[Penguin68]

3 hours ago, Graham Little said:

If you ever visit you will find it full of Dulwich teenagers upstairs studying for exams, community is so vital for that generation.

Not in 2026 you won't. 

[Dogkennelhillbilly]

🙄 Moan, moan, moan.

[Danish]

I suppose we have to be grateful that some Libraries still exist in today's social media non reading book world?

[Castleton]

Hopefully better/more toilets too