The Whitechapel Library Preservation & Enhancement Project will treat, repair, and replace areas of Whitechapel Library that have been impacted by damage, age, or general wear and tear, whilst improving access to external areas to improve the safety of staff carrying out regular maintenance.
Whitechapel Library is undergoing essential structural renovations to address long-standing issues with the building's roof. These necessary works will help prevent leaks and dampness that older buildings are prone to, ensuring the Library remains a safe and comfortable environment for all users. Additionally, we are installing a new guttering system and an exterior walkway on the roof, which will facilitate regular maintenance by our Estates and Facilities Team. These improvements are part of a broader Whitechapel Library Preservation and Enhancement Project aimed at enhancing the Library and study spaces to serve our users better.
The renovations are scheduled to begin the week starting 22nd July 2024 and are expected to continue until Spring 2025. We are committed to keeping the Library operational throughout this period, with no planned closure days. However, please be aware that the work will cause some noise and disruption.
While we aim to minimise disruption, there will be periods of increased noise and activity, particularly during the installation of the exterior walkway. We will provide advance notice of any particularly noisy or disruptive days to help you plan your visits accordingly.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve Whitechapel Library. These enhancements are crucial for preserving the building’s heritage and ensuring it remains an excellent study space for our users.
If you feel disrupted during the renovation, you can find alternative study space in the Garrod Building Old Library, which has recently been converted into a student space. The Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry also has West Smithfield Library as a specialist medical Library. This is a 20–25-minute journey from Whitechapel via the tube. Mile End Library is open to all users and is a 15-minute walk from Whitechapel Library. Recent investment at Mile End has added nearly 500 study spaces in the new extension.
QMUL students and staff are entitled to free membership and access to Senate House Library, the central Library of the University of London.
We understand the importance of keeping our Library users and stakeholders informed about the progress and impact of these works.
To ensure you have the latest information:
Monthly Newsletter: Read the Library Update monthly for progress updates and important milestones. You can find the newest edition of the newsletter
Social Media: Follow our social media channels for weekly highlighting key achievements and any expected disruptions: https://www.instagram.com/qmullibrary/
On-site Information: Check the information boards within the Library for regular updates.
Get in touch
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Library Services Enquiries Team at Library@qmul.ac.uk or inform staff at the Whitechapel Library Welcome Desk