In 1906, Erith’s old library opened. It was designed and built by local craftspeople: local architect, brick makers, window makers, plasterers, plumbers and carpenters. Together they crafted a building people were proud of and, for over 100 years, it was a place to learn and come together.

Today, it is no longer a library, but it remains a space that celebrates the power of craft to create and reinforce places and communities. Today, The Exchange’s mission is to continue to strengthen the sense of place and the connections between people. Continued craft learning and production enables maintenance of our building and delivery of wider community activities.

This exhibition tells the story of the building, and how we are using our craft and community heritage to inspire new work.

FREE | DROP-IN (during The Exchange’s usual opening hours)