A century of stories: Battersea Reference Library celebrates 100 years

Hidden just off Lavender Hill on Altenburg Gardens, Battersea Reference Library is celebrating its 100th birthday since opening on 12 September 1925, a century of quiet study, civic pride and learning. 

The new library was intended to support the education of young adults and provide a calm, dedicated space for research and reflection. Nearly a century later, it continues to serve that purpose, with those services now enhanced by the addition of digital resources, Wi-Fi, and eBooks.

Judi Gasser, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, reflected on the library’s legacy: 

“This centenary is not just about looking back, it’s about looking forward. Through our Libraries First! Strategy, we’re investing in our libraries to make them more inclusive, welcoming and responsive to the needs of our communities.

“Battersea Reference Library is a perfect example of how libraries can evolve over time while staying true to their purpose.” 

The history of Battersea Reference Library 

The library is a rare example of Arts and Crafts style architecture in South London, designed by Henry Hyams. Its Grade II-listed status reflects its distinctive features, including a glazed barrel-vaulted ceiling, oak-panelled gallery and hand-crafted stone and metalwork. 

Built to complement the original Battersea Library on Lavender Hill (opened in 1893), the reference library was created to support young adults’ education in a rapidly growing industrial town. 

Battersea Library is the home of Wandsworth’s Heritage Service, which holds records dating back to 1489. Visitors can explore local history through old newspapers, maps, census returns, and burial records, making the library a vital resource for historians, genealogists and curious residents alike. 

The 100th birthday celebration

On Friday 12 September, Battersea Reference Library hosted a special event to mark its centenary. The celebration brought together local community groups, artists, councillors, and families for an afternoon of creativity and reflection. 

The event featured a joyful Baby Rhyme Time session, the launch of a new art exhibition showcasing local talent, and All That Jazz, a live jazz performance as part of our London Borough of Culture programme. 

Restoring a piece of history

As part of the Libraries First! Strategy, the council plans to restore the library’s historic glass roof, an architectural centrepiece that defines the building’s unique character. This restoration will ensure the space remains safe, accessible, and protected for future generations, preserving its heritage while enhancing its usability. 

Libraries First! Strategy

At the 100th birthday event, we officially launched our Libraries First! Strategy: a five-year plan to continue putting libraries at the heart of the community.

As part of the strategy, we’re proud to support early literacy through the Dolly Parton Imagination Library, which provides free books to children under five across the borough.

We have introduced extended opening hours at neighbouring libraries including Battersea Park Library and York Gardens Library, making it easier for residents to access services at times that suit them best.

Libraries First! also plans to deliver:

• Refurbished children’s libraries at Balham and Battersea Park
• Improved study spaces and upgraded IT facilities
• Expanded eBook and audiobook access and universal library membership for children
• Free digital skills training and wireless printing
• More arts and cultural events, exhibitions, and support for local artists, especially during our year as London Borough of Culture 2025
• New Sustainability Corners will promote climate literacy and energy-efficient upgrades
• Becoming accredited as ‘Libraries of Sanctuary’

Find your nearest library and register to join the library today.

Find out more about the Libraries First! Strategy

Wandsworth Libraries are managed by Greenwich Leisure Ltd (GLL), a charitable social enterprise, under the brand Better Libraries.