More than 100 years ago, communities around the town of Erith came together to build the area’s first public library. Their vision was to create a building that would inspire education, opportunity and community; a building that belonged to local residents; a building people were proud of.

They appointed local architect William Egerton to lead on a design that would showcase the craft and talent of the area. Egerton employed local carpenters, blacksmiths, plumbers and plasterers; used local bricks and timber merchants. The result was a stunning red brick building that stood at the heart of the neighbourhood. Built by community makers, it would serve the local area for over 100 years.

The Old Library became The Exchange’s home in February 2019, after the building had been lying derelict for 10 years. It is now once again a hub for community, celebrating local craft and working with local people to give Erith a brighter future.