15/09/2025
Shhhh! Did you know that our Little Book Stop has a secret letter on the back? Here's what it says:
Dear neighbours,
This Little Book Stop stands outside a building that has always been about strengthening the community. Opened in 1906, the Old Library was a gift to the people of Erith, giving them access to stories and knowledge. Its first librarian, William Barton-Young, and his assistant, Willmore, are remembered with plaques by the front entrance.
After William’s death in WWI, his wife, Florence, became head librarian – a rare role for a woman at the time. She served the library for more than 20 years, helping to establish a museum, delivering talks and creating the UK’s first purpose-built mobile library to bring books to even more people. The greenhouse, designed in the shape of her library van, is a tribute to her legacy.
In 2019, the Old Library gained a new lease of life as The Exchange – a community-owned organisation that celebrates local people and local craft. With its beautiful garden, workshops, events and delicious food, it is a special place for me and my family, and I know many others in the community love it too.
But until now, one thing has been missing from the rejuvenated Old Library: books. Our combined stories and knowledge are what make this place so special, creating connections with the past and offering comfort and joy in the present.
That’s why I’m so happy to bring this Little Book Stop to the Old Library – reconnecting the building with its literary roots and providing free books for anyone who wants to read, swap or share.
Take a book. Leave a book. Enjoy it, share it and help it grow. I hope it brings joy for years to come.
Happy reading,
Your Little Book Stop steward
