Quiet revolution: the library space transforming work for Putney freelancers

Professional, low-cost, and packed with opportunity — if you know where to look.
The Hub at Putney Library


If you’re a remote worker, freelancer or small business owner in Putney, there’s a calm and affordable co-working space you might have walked past without even noticing — tucked away on the second floor of Putney Library.

The Putney Library Business Hub is a bright, air-conditioned space located on the library’s second floor on Disraeli Road. It’s calm, professional, and quietly building a warm community of freelancers, small business owners, remote workers and start-ups. Yet despite all it offers, it’s still underused.

I first discovered the hub six months ago, shortly after launching my own virtual assistant business, Harland VA, having spent 17 years in corporate Personal Assistant and Executive Assistant roles. After signing my first client, I wanted a local workspace where I could focus, stay productive and still feel connected to the community. The hub ticked all the boxes — and at a much more accessible price than commercial co-working options nearby (almost half the price).

What Is the Putney Library Business Hub?

Launched in late 2023, the Putney Library Business Hub was created by Start Up Wandsworth, in partnership between the British Library and Wandsworth Council. It’s one of two business hubs in the borough (the other is at York Gardens Library in Battersea), and is designed to support entrepreneurs, sole traders, and business professionals.

Dabira Falola is its Project Coordinator and is employed by Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), a co-operative that was started in Greenwich, and became one of the UK’s first leisure services to spin out from local authority control into an independent body. She explained the idea behind Start Up Wandsworth:

“As a charitable social enterprise, GLL is committed to supporting its local communities, and Start Up Wandsworth is a key part of what we offer through our libraries. Since the launch, it’s played an important role in helping local businesses and entrepreneurs access support and connect with the borough’s growing business community.”

The hub has 18 desks – all with ergonomic desks and plug sockets – a bookable meeting room, a private soundproof phone booth, a printer and a kitchenette with fridge, microwave, and hot drink facilities. There are also informal breakout areas for lunch or impromptu chats. It’s a gated, pass-only area on the second floor — separate from the busy main library used by students and general visitors.

Day passes cost £10 (incl. VAT), or you can sign a monthly contract at £175 (incl. VAT), which includes free access to the meeting room. New users simply register for library membership and check in at the library’s front desk before heading upstairs. A lift is available for accessibility. A 50% Access for All discount is also available for those on certain benefits or meeting eligibility criteria.

Business Co-Working Day in May 2025
Nicola Laurie VA Becx me and Pauline Chan at the VA Business Co Working Day in May 2025

A Thriving Local Network

In addition to desk space, the hub hosts free training, networking, and business events as part of the Start Up Wandsworth programme. For example, in June, the space hosted the Creative Power Hour with Katie Debrah — award-winning strategist, founder of Halo and Echo, and former creative lead at YouTube Music — offering tailored group advice for creatives and digital entrepreneurs.

Katie Debrahs training session at the Putney Library Business Hub in June

These events are part of a growing ecosystem, helping professionals meet, collaborate, and build a local support network.


Voices From the Hub

Nick, a tech professional in the insurance industry, uses the hub occasionally to avoid the commute and fit work around childcare:

“The hub has been a fantastic alternative to commuting. It’s affordable, minimises distractions, and boosts my productivity. I also appreciate the chance to connect with others and support the library community.


Jannine Barron, a regenerative business mentor and leadership coach, found the space after seeing a sign in the library foyer:

Jannine Barron

“I absolutely have very focused days there — unlike at home, which is full of distractions. It’s affordable, flexible, well laid out, and the people are friendly. Lovely friendships have blossomed, and I’ve even connected with a charity working here. As people get to know what I do, I’ve been invited to speak on panels too.”

– Jannine (www.janninebarron.com) supports purpose-led business owners with conscious marketing, regenerative leadership, and strategy

Khadra Ali Hared, founder of the local charity MACWO (Mother and Child Welfare Organisation) – has rented an office at the hub for over a year:

“It’s a safe, friendly place with great networking opportunities. We’re building a warm, supportive community here, and I’d love to see more local freelancers and businesses join us.”

– Khadra’s charity, MACWO (www.macwo.org), supports single mothers and families facing issues like addiction, homelessness and domestic violence. Donations, funding and offers to volunteer are gratefully received towards the vital work of MACWO.

 Jeremy Dalton, CEO of XR HQ, uses the hub to write, research, and create content about emerging technologies including virtual and augmented reality, and AI:

“Being a dedicated working space in an easily accessible location, the Business Hub is fantastic for getting into the work mode mindset. I’m far more productive here than at home, and it’s a great place to chat with others who share the same entrepreneurial drive.”

– Jeremy is the author of Reality Check: How VR and AR Can Supercharge Your Business, recently released in its second edition. You can find it on Amazon, in libraries, or via publisher Kogan Page. Learn more at www.jeremydalton.co

Pauline Chan, founder of Boundless VA Solutions, was introduced to the hub by fellow VA (me):

“This hub is a hidden gem — affordable, professional, and brilliantly located. The quiet, spacious environment helps me focus, and the events hosted by the library have been a great way to connect with others. A coffee machine would be a great addition — but honestly, it’s already an ideal place for remote workers.”

– Pauline’s business, Boundless VA Solutions (www.bvasolutions.co.uk), supports small business owners with admin and project management services.


Why This Space Matters

As flexible work becomes the norm, spaces like the Putney Library Business Hub are vital. They offer a professional alternative to working from home, without the high cost of private office space or the isolation that often comes with remote work.

All it needs at this point is the support of regular users or the hub could be at risk of repurposing, so sharing it with the wider Putney community is important to its continuation.

So if you’re looking for a professional space to get work done — without the noise, crowds, or high prices — try the Putney Library Business Hub. It’s more than a workspace; it’s a growing community. Come and see for yourself.

Find Out More

Drop by the central desk at Putney Library to purchase a day pass, request a viewing or enquire about monthly options. To learn more about Start Up Wandsworth events and training, visit: Wandsworth Enterprise Hub.

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  1. I HAD NO IDEA ABOUT THIS!!! I have been to the library many times but didn’t know there was a space for freelancers!. That’s amazing. I have been kicked out of the place I seat (usually quiet corner when there is no one around in the children’s library) to avoid distractions or noise, but was never offered those spaces.

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