Richmond Library

  • April 2026

Richmond Library is one of 11 public libraries in the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames. The borough is well known for attractions such as Hampton Court Palace, Twickenham Stadium, and Kew Gardens, and has a population of around 200,000. The library is housed in a Gothic-style building that opened in 1881, making it the oldest continuously operating public library in London. It offers books, DVDs, eBooks, IT facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Library card holders also have free access to e-newspapers and digital magazines. However, like many other British public libraries, it does not provide printed newspapers or magazines. The library supports recycling by accepting small batteries and small electronic items. The historic building appears to limit some services; for example, there are no customer toilets. According to the staff, the nearest public toilets are at Richmond Station, about a 10-minute walk away.  TWO stars: Acceptable