Exploring London through its Libraries

As LSE students pursuing rigorous degrees, we are often pressed for time. And if you are anything like me – a procrastinator pursuing a relentlessly tough Master’s, who loves living in London, hates being confined to a single study location, and doesn’t have time to go out often – you will find soon enough that one of the most productive ways to sightsee is to discover new libraries! 

So, from one procrastinator-who-plugs-into-dark-academia-playlists-on-Spotify to the next, here is my collection of the nicest alternative libraries: 

The British Film Institute’s Reuben Library tops my list – plug points at every table, private silent study spaces, a hipster-art house vibe, and the BEST location – right on the Southbank! There is no better place for when you need a break from studying: enjoy some fresh air by the Thames, or some lively music on the Southbank, or even just take a walk to enjoy the vibrant culture of the Southbank. There’s nothing quite like it. And here’s the kicker: it’s a 10-minute walk from LSE – perfect for when you need a break from the rather stressful LSE Library! 

Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/KocRfriwNqBkxD7E6 

Remember to complete the online registration to obtain a free student pass for Senate House Library – once that’s done, you’re all set! There’s numerous places to study, and the wood panelling, high ceilings, and soft yellow and green lighting offer the perfect old-school dark academia aesthetic you miss at the LSE Library. And here’s a tip: there’s also a microwave and free tea/coffee in the kitchen on the ground floor for when you need some sustenance to get you through the day! 

Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/igGqUav12NwC67zf9 



3. The Barbican Centre 

Within the heart of London lies a sanctuary – not especially well-known but certainly not a secret – the Barbican Centre is a serene escape from the stress of the City. There’s brutalist architecture, a mini river and gardens to walk through, great coffee to savour, and art/music exhibitions during your study breaks. St Paul’s Cathedral is barely a 10-minute walk away. Equally, there are tables with plug points and study spaces that aren’t eerily quiet but are far from being noisy, too – honestly, the only reason why the Barbican isn’t at the top of this list is because I’m resisting the urge to gatekeep it! 

Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/cwyKUYR8ByvaVegy7 



4. Bishopsgate Library 

Hello, residents of Lilian Knowles House – this one is especially for you! The Bishopsgate Library is located at Liverpool Street, precisely 2 minutes away from this LSE Hall and the lovely Old Spitalfields Market – and it provides a wonderful space to study. The Bishopsgate Institute itself is a warm, welcoming spot, and the library offers an old-world charm alongside high-speed wi-fi and plug points on every table. This is the perfect spot especially if you’re looking for a place to study on a Monday or a Friday – the general study room is open to all then! If you are using the Library for archival research, then the library is open throughout the week. 

Google Map link: https://goo.gl/maps/b82RbTJnm2RCYtVP7 



5. Artizan Street Library 

Artizan Street Library is perfect if you want a more playful space. It has a community-like vibe to it – also located just 10 minutes from Liverpool Street Station; this library is a local library that is relatively small but colourful and refreshing to sit in for a long study session.  

Google Map Link: https://goo.gl/maps/YzE9FaoJsoUE1GoV9