Swiss Cottage Library celebrates 60 years with new children's library and historic exhibition
Last week, Camden Council celebrated World Book Day at Swiss Cottage Library by opening the redesigned children’s library and launching an exhibition commemorating the gallery space's sixtieth anniversary.
The event saw the unveiling of the new children’s library, a vibrant and engaging space designed to nurture a passion for reading and learning in young people. The redesign seamlessly blends the library’s rich heritage with modern, interactive elements, creating an environment that fosters imagination, curiosity, and exploration.
Additionally, the library’s gallery space launched a commemorative exhibition celebrating its 60 years of showcasing art and culture. Swiss At Sixty: The Swiss Cottage Library Story is an exhibition produced by Camden Council's Archivist, Camden Local Studies and the Archive Service. It explores the history of the library, it’s significant contribution to the local community and its enduring legacy.
The library's recent transformation is a shining example of community collaboration. Camden Council worked with local primary schools and families who all fed into the design. Local artists, knitting groups, schools, and residents also contributed artwork and handcrafted items, to create a space that serves everyone in Camden.
This Children’s Library's redesign is a true community creation where generations can connect and learn. From artwork by local groups to vital input from our schools and families, this is a space that reflects the diverse talents and needs of Camden residents.
We're evolving our libraries into eco-conscious, engaging civic spaces that ensure a sustainable future for our residents, while honouring our rich heritage with fantastic exhibitions like Swiss at Sixty.
This is Camden at its best - a community that values its past, invests in its present, and looks forward to a bright, sustainable future.
It's fantastic to celebrate the sixtieth year of our iconic Swiss Cottage Library, and to mark it with the launch of the redesigned children’s library.
This is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing enriching and inspiring environments for all our residents, from childhood right through to adulthood.
This space, and our libraries in general, are key neighbourhood spaces, where reading, learning, information, and cultural activities combine to boost wellbeing, belonging, and connection.
Swiss Cottage Library, a Grade II listed architectural landmark designed by Sir Basil Spence and opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1964, remains a cornerstone of the Camden community. With over 200,000 visits annually, it is Camden’s busiest library, offering a diverse range of events and activities in collaboration with community and partner organisations.
Not only does Swiss Cottage Library provide access to books, resources, and cultural events, it also acts as a Severe Weather Emergency Planning centre on the coldest nights in winter, welcoming homeless people overnight where they can access support.
Camden Council is dedicated to supporting libraries and recognises the crucial role these institutions play in the community. In the most recent participation survey published by the Department of Culture Media and Sport, Camden’s Libraries had the second highest percentage of engagement in England. The Council is eager to hear from residents and actively seeking ideas to shape the future of local libraries that truly meet community needs. To get involved, talk to staff at any Camden library.
Swiss Cottage Library remains committed to encouraging a love of reading and learning for all ages and looks forward to welcoming back residents to its new Children’s Library. The Children’s Library is open to the public, and you can find out more here.
Swiss At Sixty: The Swiss Cottage Library Story is open to the public until 3 April 2025. Find out more here.
For more information on events and activities at our libraries, visit the website.