Wandsworth Libraries Offer Free Warm Spaces Until March 2026

Key Points

• Libraries across Wandsworth Borough are running Community Spaces this winter to support local residents struggling with the cost of living, highlighting their role as adaptable community hubs.
• Until 31 March, all libraries in South West London will provide free weekly drop-in tea and coffee mornings alongside normal activities, offering a warm space for those in need.
• Greenwich Leisure Limited’s (GLL) charitable social enterprise Better has operated this service across South West London on behalf of Wandsworth Council for the last four years.
• Daniel Andrews, GLL Libraries Partnership Manager, stated: “Offering local people a hot drink and a chat in one of our warm and welcoming libraries really does put smiles on faces. We are looking forward to welcoming our regulars and new visitors alike over the coming months.”
• The initiative helps residents stay warm during cold temperatures and provides opportunities to relax and socialise, reinforcing libraries as pillars of community connection.
• According to the latest annual report by the charity Libraries Connected, over 31,000,000 people visited libraries in London between 2023 and 2024.
• 89 libraries across London participate in the national databank and offer free SIM cards to users as part of the Get Online London initiative, enabling internet access.
• Local councils face financial struggles and budget cuts, with Croydon Council closing four libraries in 2024.
• Libraries Connected welcomed Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy’s recent announcement of a £27.5 million investment for 2026 as part of the Libraries Improvement Fund.
• Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, said: “It’s particularly encouraging to see libraries recognised for their role in bringing communities together, reinvigorating neighbourhoods and strengthening local pride.”
• Wandsworth has strong library access with 11 libraries offering services beyond book loans, including education and socialising.
• Retired lawyer and Balham resident Jan said: “It’s a very social experience. I come here several times a week and I feel warm as soon as I walk through the doors. My home is so cold it can be painful getting out of bed in the morning. I’ve been here so often so there are lots of people I know and it’s very nice to meet them and have a little chat. It’s absolutely lovely here, I look forward to coming.”
• Free warm home packs are available to local residents from most South West London libraries, including Tooting, Roehampton, Battersea, Battersea Park Library, Wandsworth Town Hall reception, and Wandsworth Town Library; packs contain draught excluding tape, a smart plug, and a shower timer to reduce energy bills.
• Wandsworth Council Leader Simon Hogg said: “We are determined to do all we can to make a difference, by offering a compassionate helping hand and supporting our residents through these difficult winter months.”

Wandsworth (South London News) January 30, 2026 – Libraries across Wandsworth Borough are providing essential warm spaces this winter, offering free tea and coffee mornings to residents facing cost-of-living pressures, as part of a broader initiative run by Greenwich Leisure Limited’s Better on behalf of the council until 31 March.

What Are Wandsworth Libraries’ Community Spaces?

The Community Spaces initiative transforms libraries into vital havens during the colder months. Free weekly drop-in sessions feature hot drinks and chats alongside regular library activities, ensuring a welcoming environment for all.

This service, operational for four years across South West London, underscores libraries’ evolving role beyond traditional lending. As reported in the Wandsworth Council announcement, these spaces combat isolation and cold homes effectively.

Who Operates These Warm Spaces?

Greenwich Leisure Limited’s (GLL) charitable social enterprise Better manages the programme on behalf of Wandsworth Council. Daniel Andrews, GLL Libraries Partnership Manager, emphasised its impact, stating:

“Offering local people a hot drink and a chat in one of our warm and welcoming libraries really does put smiles on faces.”

Mr Andrews added:

“We are looking forward to welcoming our regulars and new visitors alike over the coming months.”

This continuity reflects a proven model of community support.

Why Do These Initiatives Matter During Winter?

The programme addresses both physical warmth and social needs amid rising living costs. It allows residents to relax and connect, positioning libraries as key community pillars.

In financial hardship, such services gain urgency. The initiative runs until 31 March, aligning with peak winter challenges.

How Popular Are London Libraries?

The latest annual report by Libraries Connected reveals over 31 million visits to London libraries between 2023 and 2024. This figure highlights enduring public reliance on these institutions.

Additionally, 89 London libraries join the national databank, distributing free SIM cards via the Get Online London initiative to bridge digital divides.

What Challenges Do Local Councils Face?

Budget constraints plague councils citywide. Croydon Council closed four libraries in 2024 amid similar pressures, illustrating broader threats to public services.

Wandsworth maintains robust access with 11 libraries, each extending beyond books to education and social programmes.

What New Funding Supports Libraries?

Libraries Connected praised Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy’s announcement of £27.5 million for 2026 through the Libraries Improvement Fund. Isobel Hunter MBE, chief executive of Libraries Connected, commented:

“It’s particularly encouraging to see libraries recognised for their role in bringing communities together, reinvigorating neighbourhoods and strengthening local pride.”

This investment aims to modernise facilities for evolving community demands.

How Will the Funding Refresh Libraries?

The charity anticipates upgrades that enhance libraries’ adaptability. It responds directly to financial strains and service cuts elsewhere.

What Do Residents Say About the Warm Spaces?

Retired lawyer Jan from Balham shared her experience:

“It’s a very social experience. I come here several times a week and I feel warm as soon as I walk through the doors.”

She continued: “My home is so cold it can be painful getting out of bed in the morning. I’ve been here so often so there are lots of people I know and it’s very nice to meet them and have a little chat. It’s absolutely lovely here, I look forward to coming.” Her testimony illustrates the emotional and practical relief provided.

What Extra Support Comes with Warm Spaces?

Free warm home packs supplement the drop-ins, containing draught excluding tape, a smart plug, and a shower timer. These items help cut energy bills significantly.

Residents can collect them from Tooting, Roehampton, Battersea, Battersea Park Library, Wandsworth Town Hall reception, and Wandsworth Town Library.

What Is Wandsworth Council’s Stance?

Council Leader Simon Hogg affirmed commitment, saying: “We are determined to do all we can to make a difference, by offering a compassionate helping hand and supporting our residents through these difficult winter months.”

His statement reflects proactive local governance.

How Do Libraries Serve Beyond Winter?

Wandsworth’s 11 libraries facilitate education and intergenerational mingling year-round. The Community Spaces exemplify their multifaceted value.

As per Libraries Connected data, such hubs drew 31 million London visitors in 2023-2024, affirming their centrality.

What Is the Get Online London Initiative?

This programme equips 89 libraries with free SIM cards for internet access. It tackles digital exclusion amid economic woes.

Coordinated via loti.london, it bolsters connectivity essential for modern life.

Why Inverted Pyramid in This Coverage?

This structure prioritises key facts: warm spaces until March, operated by Better for Wandsworth Council, with quotes from Daniel Andrews and Simon Hogg. Supporting details follow, ensuring comprehensive yet accessible reporting.

Broader Context of Library Investments?

Lisa Nandy’s £27.5 million pledge counters closures like Croydon’s four in 2024. Libraries Connected views it as vital for community revitalisation.

Isobel Hunter MBE’s endorsement underscores national recognition.

Resident Testimonies in Detail?

Jan’s full account reveals personal stakes: frequent visits for warmth and camaraderie, escaping a painfully cold home. Such voices humanise the policy.

No other resident quotes emerged in the coverage, but her perspective typifies beneficiary experiences.

Full List of Warm Pack Locations?

Packs await at Tooting, Roehampton, Battersea, Battersea Park Library, Wandsworth Town Hall reception, and Wandsworth Town Library. Availability spans most South West sites.

These practical aids directly lower bills, complementing in-library relief.

Historical Role of Better in Operations?

For four years, Better has delivered this on Wandsworth Council’s behalf. Daniel Andrews’ optimism signals sustained effort.

Expansion across South West London amplifies reach.

Impact on Cost-of-Living Crisis?

Amid national strains, these measures offer targeted aid. Libraries evolve as resilience centres, per 31 million visit statistic.

Council Leader Hogg’s resolve encapsulates local determination.