Belsize Community Library Turns 90
90 Years of Stories, Connection, and Community
For nine decades, Belsize Community Library has been the beating heart of our neighbourhood.
Ninety Years in the Making
Since 1937, our Grade II-listed building on Antrim Road has served generations of local residents.
Join the Celebration: 90th Anniversary Events
To mark 90 wonderful years, we are putting together a special series of anniversary events throughout the year. We will be hosting:
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Special Guest Talks & Panel Discussions featuring local authors, historians, and artists.
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Family & Children’s Activities celebrating stories, creativity, and the joy of reading.
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Historical Exhibits taking a look back at the library’s unique architecture and history since 1937.
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Community Gatherings bringing together neighbors old and new to share memories.
Become a Library Champion
Despite its deep roots and long history, our beloved Belsize Community Library currently faces an unprecedented level of financial pressure.
Without a reliable stream of income, the future of the library remains uncertain. Find our how you can help
Our Celebration events
90th Anniversary Exhibition (During regular library opening hours)October 26 - March 27 | All ages
A special exhibit showcasing the rich story of Belsize Library, past and present. Includes a short documentary film produced specially for the 90th anniversary.
Children’s Design a New Library Card CompetitionNovember 26 – January 27 | Children aged 5–11
To celebrate our 90th milestone, we are launching a brand-new library card—designed by local children! Submissions can be created at school, at home, or during our special library art workshop. Find our more
inside the Library or email library@thewinch.org.
Evening Launch of the 90th CelebrationsThursday, 15th October 2026 | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Adults
Kickoff event featuring guest speakers, music, and light refreshments.
Confirmed Speakers: Victoria Coren Mitchell,
Tulip Siddiq MP, Rashid Iqbal (The Winch), Anthony Isaacs (Friends of the Library), Denise Ho (Gathering Leaves HK). Register for the launch event
"The English Public Library 1850–1930"Thursday, 19th November 2026 | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Susie Barson (Senior Architectural Historian, Historic England)
Entry: £5 suggested donation- cash/card accepted (includes refreshments). Booking in advance not necessary.
An illustrated talk detailing the historic development of public library architecture across England, featuring Belsize Library’s own journey to achieving Grade II listed status.
"Domestic Servants and the Domestic Workers' Union in Belsize"
Thursday, 10th December 2026 | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Laura Schwartz (Professor of Modern British History at the University of Warwick)
Entry: £5 suggested donation- cash/card accepted (includes refreshments). Booking in advance not necessary.
An exploration into the daily lives of 20th-century Belsize domestic servants and the history of the militant Domestic Workers’ Union founded at 211 Belsize Road in 1910.
"German Jewish Refugees in 1930s Belsize"
Thursday, 21st January 2027 | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Charlie Knight (Bithell Visiting Fellow, University of London)
Entry: £5 suggested donation- cash/card accepted (includes refreshments). Booking in advance not necessary.
A talk examining refugee networks in 1930s Belsize and how arriving communities remained connected to events unfolding across continental Europe.
"Remarkable Homes of NW3"
Thursday, 18th February 2027 | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
David Percy (Cinematographer & NW3 historian)
Entry: £5 suggested donation- cash/card accepted (includes refreshments). Booking in advance not necessary.
A richly illustrated presentation based on David Percy’s book, featuring photographs of grand hallways, secret gardens, and homes of past notable residents
Celebrating Belsize Library from 1897 to 2027"
Thursday, 18th March 2027 | 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Averil Nottage (Local historian & former Chair of Belsize Residents Association)
Entry: £5 suggested donation- cash/card accepted (includes refreshments). Booking in advance not necessary.
Taking place on the exact 90th anniversary date, this talk traces library developments from subscription libraries through the 1897 and 1937 buildings to present day. Features a celebratory cake cutting!
90th Anniversary Gala Event
March 2027 (Date & Time TBC)
Grand finale celebration marking 90 years of Belsize Community Library
To mark nine decades at the heart of our community, we invite you to an unforgettable evening of celebration, history, and hope.
Community Street Party
Sunday, 4th October 2026 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM | All ages
An outdoor neighbourhood celebration of Belsize Community Library and its community. Features live music, face painting, and fun activities for all ages.
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