A new library and local “heritage centre” has opened on the Walworth Road.
The Southwark Heritage Centre and Walworth Library opened last Monday at 147 Walworth Road.
The new facility has 20,000 books, as well as historical art and artefacts on display. There are seating areas to read and relax, as well as bookable public computers.
The library is hosting a new exhibition called “Myth Making”. Artists Wignall and Moore tried to create local myths for the area, which are reflected in the art and writing on display.
The centre also has a “World Wall” – a collection of its rarer artefacts from across the globe.
Other new features coming soon include a permanent exhibition called The Story of Southwark – about local history in the borough – and The Faraday Room. This is a room without electronic devices, inspired by the Faraday Cage – a tool that blocks electromagnetic fields. This is itself a reference to local history, as inventor Michael Faraday was born in Newington Butts.
The library will also have various other events and meeting spaces.