The old Library

REF: EVE_016

Ref: eve_016
The Old Library – Grade II Listed Arts Venue, East London

About

Located in East London, this long established arts and performance venue is housed within a Grade II listed former Carnegie library dating from 1912–13. Originally designed by architect Sir Edwin Cooper, the building retains much of its civic character, combining historic architectural detailing with flexible contemporary production spaces.

The venue offers two principal hire spaces suitable for live productions and events. On the ground floor, the Theatre is arranged as a flexible black box space measuring approximately 10.8m x 10.5m (approx 1,220 sq ft). The room features parquet flooring, a small stage area and an adjoining dressing room, with removable seating allowing the space to shift easily between performance, studio and open plan configurations.

At first floor level, the Studio provides a contrasting setting with softer natural light entering through an Edwardian glass atrium, one of the building’s retained heritage features. Measuring approximately 9.5m x 7.5m (approx 765 sq ft), the studio includes a mirrored wall and semi sprung floor.

Throughout the building, original architectural elements remain visible, including the imposing classical façade and generous internal proportions associated with its former civic use. Additional breakout and ancillary spaces can also be arranged for costume, styling, holding or production support.

The building has hosted a wide range of productions and events over the years, including work with major broadcasters and arts organisations.

A flexible and characterful production venue combining historic architecture with adaptable performance and studio spaces.

Key Features

• Grade II listed former Carnegie library
• Historic civic architecture dating from 1912–13
• Flexible black box theatre space
• Parquet flooring and removable seating
• Small stage area and adjoining dressing room
• First floor studio with Edwardian glass atrium
• Natural light studio space
• Mirrored wall and semi sprung floor
• Additional breakout and ancillary spaces available
• Ground floor accessibility
• Experienced venue team and production support available

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Image credit: Location

CAPACITY

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ACCESS

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STYLE

Edwardian Arts Venue

SIZE

Theatre: Approx. 1,220 sq ft
Studio: Approx. 765 sq ft

license

Yes

LOCATION

East London

DOWNLOADS

Information

FEATURES

Grade II listed former Carnegie library
Historic civic architecture (1912–13)
Flexible black box theatre space
Parquet flooring
Removable seating
Small stage area
First floor studio with Edwardian glass atrium
Mirrored wall
Semi sprung floor
High ceilings
Original architectural detailing

SPACES

Black box theatre
Studio space
Dressing room
Breakout / ancillary spaces

SERVICES

Production support 

PARKING

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OTHER

Ground floor accessibility