Featured as an “archetype” library on the Shelf-Life project website

Hendon Library was built in 1908-09 with funds donated by Andrew Carnegie, a famous Scottish-American philanthropist.

 

Carnegie paid for 3 branch libraries in Sunderland: Hendon, Monkwearmouth and West Branch (Kayll Road library). All are built in red brick and similar style (Edwardian baroque) as each had to follow a basic plan produced by Sunderland librarian John Alfred Charlton Deas.  

Hendon branch was designed by Edward Cratney, of Wallsend and Sunderland. The foundation stone was laid by Councillor J Hindmarch, of the Museum and Library Committee, on February 26, 1908.

Source: https://carnegielegacyinengland.wordpress.com/2017/02/04/hendon-branch-library-sunderland/ 

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In 2013 Sunderland Council announced the closure of the library as part of their plans to close nine libraries to save £850,000 from the city council budget. At the same time, they decided to initiate talks with organisations that might wish to run the libraries as community venues that offer a library service as a part of their provision. 

Back on the Map found support from residents in its decision to reopen Hendon Library as a community centre with “library provision.”

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In early 2014 Back on the Map transformed the former Branch Library into a multi-use community facility and when opened was the largest ‘community library’ in the city, providing a whole host of social, educational, cultural, employment, training and welfare support services.

The centre is open every weekday and some evenings, and is used by over 900 individual residents each year. For many of the local residents, this daily support forms a lifeline; combating social isolation and mental health problems.

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The Library is Volunteer led and is free to join. With a good selection of books for all age ranges, from tots upwards you can borrow up to three books for 4 weeks.

Please enjoy them, then bring them back for others to enjoy.