Peckham Library — Attraction in London

Peckham Library, located in the heart of South London, is more than just a place to borrow books; it's an iconic landmark and a hub of community activity. Opened in 2000, the library quickly became a symbol of modern architectural innovation and social engagement, winning the prestigious Stirling Prize for architecture the same year.

Architectural Significance: Designed by Will Alsop, Peckham Library stands out for its bold and unconventional design. The building's striking shape—an inverted ‘L’—sits on steel stilts, giving it a sense of levitation above the ground. The exterior is clad in an eye-catching mix of coloured glass and copper, creating a dynamic visual effect that changes with the light throughout the day. Large, playful pod-like structures jut out from the façade, serving as reading rooms and quiet spaces inside. This innovative design not only makes the library a visual landmark but also redefines what a public library can be.

Community Hub: Inside, Peckham Library offers a welcoming and vibrant space for people of all ages. It’s more than just a traditional library; it’s a community centre that hosts a variety of activities, from children’s storytelling sessions to art exhibitions and workshops. The library’s layout is open and flexible, designed to encourage interaction and creativity. With dedicated areas for children, teens, and adults, Peckham Library caters to the diverse needs of the local community.

Social Impact: Peckham Library plays a crucial role in the social and cultural life of the area. It serves as a vital resource for education, literacy, and personal development, particularly in a community as diverse as Peckham. The library's inclusive approach and the availability of free resources, including internet access and study spaces, make it an essential support system for many residents.

Cultural Influence: Since its opening, Peckham Library has inspired a new generation of libraries in the UK and abroad, showing that public libraries can be both functional and architecturally exciting. Its success has also contributed to the ongoing regeneration of Peckham, transforming the area into a more vibrant and attractive place to live and visit.

In conclusion, Peckham Library is a shining example of how thoughtful design and community focus can turn a public space into a beloved institution. Whether you’re visiting to borrow a book, attend an event, or simply admire its architecture, Peckham Library is a place where the spirit of learning and community...

Maybe if they'd spent more money on basic infrastructure and design rather than flamboyant (and rather ugly!) architecture then this place would actually be suitable for studying in. There are no quiet areas... the designated study areas are either right next to reception (i.e. very noisy) or along the south-facing window side and thereby useless as soon as the sun shines. I don't know when it became socially acceptable for people to cheerfully conduct conversations at normal volume in a library, but it seems to be the standard here. Bring noise-cancelling headphones and some kind of wall-of-sound playlist, or... just go elsewhere. East dulwich library is more ramshackle and has a toilet from the 1970s but it is at least a lot quieter. Saying that, this place clearly offers the community a lot more than study spaces, so if you're after a nice chat and a sit down you're in the...

I dont like the fact that everytime I go here theres no space. And I dont understand this discrimination, yes adults have important work to do but that doesn't mean they are given better spaces. Adult presumably 18 and above are allowed to be seated on the 4th floor and on the floor above. However student who ACTUALLY want to revise are given two chairs at the corner of the floor and are advised to revise in the children's section of the library. I'm sorry but I dont see how putting teenagers with little toddlers is a great idea. This is so stupid the layout of this library is so bad and it's never in favor of teenage student who want to revise.

Like seriously the man at the library was like go to another close library. It's dark and you expect me a 15 year old girl to be roaming far from her home just so she can look for a decent libary to revise in. So...