The Best Libraries in London to Celebrate World Book Day

Choose a book to curl up with in honour of World Book Day (the first Thursday of March) and discover the best libraries in London.

We can all acknowledge that the world would not be the same without books; they inspire, educate, and broaden our horizons. So it makes perfect sense to celebrate their power and the joy they bring. World Book Day was first celebrated in 1995 and has been a holiday designated by UNESCO ever since. This is your day to put aside time to read that book you keep saying you’ll get around to reading and enjoy it fully! Curl up on the couch, get a cosy blanket, and drink a hot cup of tea while you absorb every page.

Another way to celebrate World Book Day is to explore the libraries in the city. London has a wide variety of beautiful libraries to choose from - you hardly need to look before you find the perfect one for you. Discover the 5 best libraries in London this World Book Day.

Kensington Central Library

This library is an architectural work of art, designed by English architect E Vincent Harris. With a gorgeous and spacious floor plan and pillars that stand out, you will be inspired to take in all this library has to offer. Harris had years of experience in building libraries before he built this one, and it shows in its design. The public room today remains largely unchanged, so you truly get a sense of history when you frequent this library. Called ‘a renaissance library for all’, the library is built in the traditional English style. 

Maughan Library

Maughan Library is a 19th-century neo-gothic building that is usually open to the public as part of Open House London (a festival that allows you access to sites that are normally closed to the public). If you are a fan of ‘The Da Vinci Code’, this library is for you. Become a member if you want to explore and learn in the dodecagonal (12-sided) reading room featured in the famous movie. 

Swiss Cottage Central Library 

Do you love philosophy and history? Imagine reading your favourites in a big, open space amongst dramatic staircases and 1960s design. This symmetrical library has a brutalist exterior, with minimalist constructions over a decorative design. 

Bethnal Green Library

Bethnal Green Library has a real sense of history behind it, having opened its doors in 1922. To this day, its Victorian interior makes you feel like you are going back in time.  It used to be a mental asylum, but today it is far from that. Beautifully designed and within a minute’s reach from Bethnal Green Underground Station, this public library has become a haven from the world. Find a large selection of books for adults and children here. 

The Wellcome Library Reading Room

This is the only spot to consider if you need to read up on medical history. Explore the comfy reading chairs, intricate hanging lamps, elegant carpeting, and exquisite design of the Wellcome Library Reading Room. Full of comfy study spaces and gallery exhibits where you can listen to poetry readings and play games, this library also holds scientific secrets and treasures. Free for those who sign up for membership.

Celebrate World Book Day with Vonder

When you think about the power of books and the places they can take you, you can fully appreciate why we at Vonder love World Book Day. This year, we have decided to celebrate our way. Join our book swap event at Vonder Wembley by bringing your gently used books to trade with others. We will be launching this activity with tea, biscuits, and good vibes! Not only will you get new books to read, but you will have the opportunity to get to know your neighbours and exchange book opinions and theories with others. What better way to make friends than to get a peek into their book taste? 

Join future Vonder events at our all-in-one living spaces. Our all inclusive flats to rent in London are fully furnished and ready to live in when you want to move. Create your own community with your neighbours at our events while exploring all that London has to offer.