Our plans for Phase One of the project (the Discovery Room and basement kitchen) are progressing well and we are currently running a tender process to select a building contractor to carry out the works. The selection process should be completed in June and we are aiming to commence building works in July, to take advantage of a quieter period in the Library over summer. We will provide further details of any potential disruption for members nearer the time and shall aim to keep any inconvenience to a minimum.

This week we shall also be submitting our application to Westminster Council for planning permission in respect of Phase Two (the 6th floor renovation, roof terrace and lift). The planning process is expected to take several months and will provide formal planning feedback on our initial designs. Our design work on this part of the project is therefore temporarily on hold while we await the Council’s response.

Our building improvements are intended to help us increase our public impact, make our collection more accessible, support the needs of our growing membership, and ensure our long-term sustainability.