The library at Lewisham station was started by book lover Michael Peacock in May 2023 after experiencing a “mental health crisis” that was aided through “the life saving power of books.”
After discovering a passion for reading and moving to the Lewisham area, Michael was inspired to create a “community-serving library for the people of Lewisham” at the station.
“It’s been heartwarming to see so many people use it,” Michael explained. “Thousands of people have used it from all walks of life, it’s created a real community.
“You can be the CEO of a company, you can be a family with young children, or you can be of no fixed address, and they’re available for all. It cuts across all social levels.
“I’ve had homeless people come up to me and thank me for the books and it’s been wonderful to see.”
Michael was inspired to create a “community-serving library for the people of Lewisham” at the station. (Image: Michael Peacock)
However, following a visit from London Fire Brigade in November last year, the brigade determined that the station should be reclassified as “sub-surface”, meaning that the station’s library would need to be removed under section 7 of the Fire Precautions.
Following the decision, Michael was contacted by KeolisAmey Docklands requesting the removal of the library, informing him of an Alterations Notice under Article 29 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 which will be “effective” from February 3.
Describing the news as a “bombshell”, Michael launched a petition on Change.org appealing the decision, requesting that London Fire Brigade “review” its decision and for KeolisAmey Docklands to delay the implementation of the library removal during the review.
Currently the petition has received 1,444 signatures, with a current goal of 1,500 signatures..
Michael was contacted by KeolisAmey Docklands requesting the removal of the library. (Image: Michael Peacock)
Michael said: “If this resource goes, it’s going to be a huge blow to the community of Lewisham and beyond.
“I’m dreading the date when I may have to remove what remains of this community resource, and it’s going to be heartbreaking.”
The station is managed by Southeastern who, according to Michael, have pledged to assist him to find another library on the Southeastern network.
Southeastern confirmed that they were in talks with Michael to “find a new station location.”
However, Michael told News Shopper that he was “not going to pursue” this, and was instead keen to explore other prospective library locations in Lewisham.
The petition also made a request to the train provider to reinstate the former bookcases that were part of the library as well as the former piano at the station. (Image: Michael Peacock)
Michael added that he has attempted to contact the London Fire Brigade to request a delay on the removal order and is seeking advice from The Mayor’s Office for a pro bono review.
Michael said: This vital resource has not just benefited countless thousands of people who have access to these free books, but it’s also benefited many, many people who it’s given them the opportunity to declutter and for the books to have another purpose.
“I estimate since I created that library in May 2023, in excess of 150,000 books have gone into the community, and the interactions I’ve had with people are wonderful.
“From homeless people who have access to books whenever they like, to people who get books from the library to give to children on the bus, it’s a really lovely community and I’d be heartbroken to see the library that serves it have to go.”
Michael has attempted to contact the London Fire Brigade to request a delay on the removal order. (Image: Michael Peacock)
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: “Following a referral by Transport for London, London Fire Brigade visited Lewisham Docklands Light Railway Station on 15 November 2024. As a result of this visit, the Brigade has determined that the station should be reclassified as a sub-surface station.
“This requires the station to make several changes in order for it to be compliant under the fire safety regulations that now apply.”
A spokesperson for Transport for London said: “We’re sorry that this community facility cannot stay in its current location.
“The safety of our staff and customers is our top priority and the location of the library is not compliant with fire and safety regulations.
“It restricts one of the station’s evacuation routes and is a fire risk.”