Transforming the Library at St Pancras
We're creating a major new public space for London and the UK that's connected to our community and open to the world. With innovation at our core, we'll be transforming our iconic building through a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose extension and new programmes that will inspire everyone to take the next step on their journey of discovery.
Find out about our plans, why we're doing this and how you can help.
Why we're doing this
Why we're doing this
As a beacon for London's growing Knowledge Quarter – and at a time when trusted information can prove hard to come by – it's important that we open up everything we have to offer to those living and working on our doorstep, across the UK and beyond.
Since our building opened in 1998 the world has changed in ways which we could only imagine. So we need to change too. That's why we're planning a major expansion of our St Pancras building and the programmes we deliver, alongside our plans for a new home in Leeds and the transformation of our Boston Spa site. We'll be offering more of what people love about the Library but in ways that suit them. And extending the expertise and support of our staff, and our vast collection, to millions more who are yet to discover how we can ignite their imaginations.
The difference we'll make, for everyone
Culture seekers – through major new gallery and event spaces we'll be able to host more exhibitions and talks to tell different histories, share new perspectives and hear the latest thinking within literature, history, science, politics and art.
Researchers – we'll offer adaptable study spaces that researchers can use however they like, with whatever device they're working on, fit for 21st century ways of working and researching.
Learners of all ages – we'll be able to engage young, curious minds with a custom-made learning centre and new programmes which will inspire learners for a lifetime.
Small businesses and start-ups – we'll expand our community programme of co-created events and displays, and grow local opportunities for jobs and skills development.
Local community – we'll welcome thousands more people living nearby with new entrances on Ossulston Street and Midland Road, a vibrant foyer to host and co-curate community events, a community garden and relaxed spaces to drop by and dip in. And we'll provide young people with opportunities for skills development and jobs.
Knowledge-based enterprises – we'll offer commercial space to organisations and companies of all sizes looking to make their base within the Knowledge Quarter. Creating a thriving ecosystem for science and innovation in the UK and connecting local and global businesses.
How we'll do this
How we'll do this
Working in partnership with Stanhope plc and Mitsui Fudosan (SMBL Developments Ltd), we'll develop the land behind our site to extend our existing building, enabling us to realise our Knowledge Matters vision with new spaces, programmes and services to inspire everyone.
Through this innovative partnership we'll be able to bring more people, communities and businesses together than ever before, including organisations and enterprises with knowledge-sharing at their core. We'll create an exciting, dynamic hub where anyone can meet, collaborate and spark new ideas.
To develop our plans, we've worked together with our partners to consult Library users and neighbours, using their feedback to develop the designs for our extension and help shape future programmes. Our submitted plans were given the green light by Camden Council in 2023.
How can I support this project?
We're seeking the support of visionary philanthropists and partners to bring this incredible new building to life with state-of-the-art spaces and programmes for culture, learning, research and business support. For more information about how you can help us transform our buildings and programmes please contact our Development team at supporters@bl.uk.
More information
When will this happen?
There will be some initial investigation onsite from early 2025 as we start to prepare the site for construction, which we expect to begin in 2026. We're looking to open the new spaces in 2032.
To enable work to start our temporary Story Garden will close in October 2025, moving to its new permanent home on the other side of King's Cross. However, we plan to create new green spaces, including a community garden where we'll continue to grow not only plants and produce but our connections and relationships with local people too.
How will this work affect me?
Our existing building will remain open throughout and as these works will take place behind our current site we don't expect services to be affected. But, as with any construction project, there may be unavoidable periods of noise and disruption once work starts. Keep an eye on our social media channels, emails and signs onsite for alerts about particularly disruptive works.
Live locally?
We've created a dedicated website with our partners to follow our plans as they develop.
We're also always available to discuss our plans with you or answer any questions you have. Just email us at blextension@bl.uk.
Or drop into our community hub, The Last Word, to stay updated – our team are happy to have a chat. Find out more about our community activities and how to get involved.