September with Richmond Libraries

Know Your Place heritage festival

Every year, Richmond's Local Studies Library and Archive invites you to delve deeper into the fascinating history of Richmond upon Thames through the Know Your Place Festival. 

Hampton Wick High Street – Then & Now

Step back in time with this fascinating, free photography exhibition curated by The Hampton Wick Association. Throughout September, ‘Then & Now’ will showcase the changing facades of Hampton Wick’s shops, businesses, and other prominent buildings; from the early 1970s until today. Reminisce and learn about the rich history of the local area, and perhaps, be inspired to take your own photos of Hampton Wick as it is now.

Exploring the history of York House 

In the bustling heart of Twickenham stands a historic gem: Grade II listed York House, dating back to the 17th Century. Learn about the house’s significant architectural features such as the handsome oak staircase, richly decorated salon, and former Winter Garden. This special talk will focus on the house’s various incarnations and why a society was established in 1924 to champion it. 

The hidden secrets of Richmond Old Town Hall 

As part of Know Your Place and Open House London, Richmond’s Old Town Hall is revealing its secrets in this behind-the-scenes guided tour. Opened in 1893 as a headquarters for the newly formed Richmond Council, this elegant building now houses the borough’s archives, Local Studies and Reference libraries, and the Museum of Richmond.

Tours start at the war memorial on Whittaker Avenue. Each tour lasts one hour.

Researching the history of your house

Have you ever been curious about the people who lived in your house before you, or what your house looked like originally? Join our Local Studies team in a beginner's workshop designed to guide you through the resources available in the Richmond upon Thames Local Studies Library and Archive.

From the Red Lion to the White Hart

This illustrated talk by John Sheaf tells the story of every property in this stretch of Hampton High Street, from the junction with Thames Street to The Triangle, between these two ancient hostelries. In addition, we will be delving into the ordinary lives of a local family, using remarkable artefacts dating back 150 years; bringing their stories to life.

Marvellous Makers Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge 2024 is almost over!

Digital Drop-ins

We will be taking a break from the roving digital drop-ins this September, but remember we have digital drop-ins at the Information & Reference Library every first and fourth Saturday of the month. We'll be back up and running in October with more roving sessions.