Hackney Central Library Refurbishment: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is happening to Hackney Central Library?

A: Hackney Central Library is undergoing a major refurbishment, thanks to funding from the central government. This is the first significant capital investment since it opened 22 years ago.

Q: What improvements can I expect from the new library?

A: Based on community feedback, the new library aims to be more welcoming and easier to navigate. Key improvements include spaces for collaborative work, comfortable and well-lit reading/study areas, a good selection of books, bookable meeting rooms and booths, and a more inspiring, plant-inspired children's area.

Q: How was the new design for the library developed?

A: The design was shaped by valuable feedback from customers of all ages. Additionally, RNIB and Scope conducted access audits to improve the library for people with visual impairments and learning/physical disabilities, and Hackney Young Futures Ambassadors and Scope Youth Ambassadors provided feedback for young people. Local families and schools also co-designed bespoke patterns and a mural for the children's library, inspired by local history and plant patterns from the Loddiges nursery.

Q: What is the significance of the plant-inspired theme?

A: The theme acknowledges the history of Conrad Loddiges' world-famous plant nursery in Mare Street, which collected plants globally. It also addresses the darker side of this history, recognising the practice of ‘colonial botany’ and the probable link to the slave trade. Artistic elements in the library reflect this complex past, using traditional patterns from the plants' countries of origin and encouraging thought about plants' origins and Hackney's diversity.

Q: How is the refurbishment being funded?

A: The refurbishment is funded by £810,500 from central government, which provided £19 million to Hackney Council for wider Hackney Central area improvements. An additional £150,000 was allocated for the building's entrance and signage. This is capital funding, meant for infrastructure and improvement work.

Q: Is Hackney Museum also being refurbished?

A: Yes, Hackney Museum will undergo a complete transformation and will be closed for most of 2026. This project is funded separately by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Q: When will Hackney Central Library close for refurbishment?

A: The library will close on Saturday, 6 September 2025. It is expected to be closed from September to December 2025.

Q: Will I still be able to pick up and drop off books during the closure?

A: A book drop will be available at Hackney Service Centre for returning books and picking up reservations. Regular storytimes, clubs, and activities will be moved to other libraries and Hackney Museum. More details will be provided on Love Hackney.

Q: Where can I go when Hackney Central Library is closed?

A: Your closest libraries are Dalston C.L.R. James Library and Homerton Library, both about a 20-minute walk away, next to overground stations, and served by local buses. Other libraries in Hackney include Shoreditch Library, Stamford Hill Library, Clapton Library, and Woodberry Down Library.

Q: Who are the key teams involved in the project?

A: Hackney Central Library’s Designers (The Design Concept), Building Signage Architects (GuM Studio and Muf architecture), Hackney Museum’s Designers (GuM Studio), and mural and wallpaper artists (@sionaptomos, @skyecantbake_, @ejost_designs). The project team is also working closely with the Hackney Museum team, Hackney Culture team, and Regeneration team.

Q: Can I still provide feedback on the designs?

A: The designs are finalised, so no significant changes will be made. However, you can post feedback or comments in the library comments box until it closes on September 6, 2025, or email libraries@hackney.gov.uk