Wallington Library celebrated its 90th birthday on Saturday 3 October, showing it remains one of Sutton’s most popular community spaces.
First opening on 3 October 1936, the building has always adapted to meet the needs of the local community. From housing World War II telephone workers in its basement to surviving a homemade bomb blast in 1957, the library has a rich local history. Following major renovations in the 1980s, a gallery space and bright conservatory were added, while updates in the 2000s restored the historic Mallinson Room and created the quiet Garden of Memories, shaping the diverse space visitors enjoy today.
To mark the special anniversary, the library hosted an anniversary event featuring talks by author Jacqueline Crooks (Skyward City) and television gardener Charlie Dimmock, who shared tips on how growing plants supports positive mental health. The Sing Out Sutton choir, who meet weekly in the library, performed classic pop hits, while residents toured a historical exhibition produced with Sutton’s Archives and Museums.
Reflecting on the anniversary, Councillor Barry Lewis, Leader of London Borough of Sutton Council said:
Our libraries are the heart of our community. I’m incredibly proud of how we’ve modernised them to stay open longer and offer a warm, inclusive space for everyone in Sutton.
Wallington Library is much more than a place for books: it is a community hub full of activities, support and knowledge. Reaching 90 years shows just how important it is to everyone here.
Today, Wallington is the second most visited library in the borough, with nearly 10,000 active local members. Over the past year alone visitors borrowed more than 121,000 items, including over 75,000 children's books and games, demonstrating that local demand for library services is as strong as ever.
Amanda Hill, daughter of Wallington Library’s very first librarian, William J. Hill, shared her lifelong connection to the building:
I joined this library when I was a day old, so pleased was my father to have a daughter. I have been a member for 83 years and have used it all my life - and it's still a joy.
To find a great book or see what events are coming up next, discover what our local libraries have to offer.
