Calico Libraries

Sydenham Library

SYdenham Library provides access to books, digital resources, and study spaces for the local community.

Sydenham Library provides a valuable community resource with a broad selection of books, digital services, and study areas. Managed by Andi and supported by enthusiastic volunteers, the library offers free Wi-Fi, public computers, and a wide range of cultural and educational activities. Visitors can borrow books, participate in events, or find a quiet space for reading or studying, making Sydenham Library an essential hub for lifelong learning and community engagement.

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How to Join

You can join Lewisham Libraries online or by visiting any Lewisham library in person.

Joining Online
  • Visit the Lewisham Libraries website and complete the online registration form.
  • You will receive a temporary membership number, which allows you to access some digital services.
  • To fully activate your membership and borrow physical items, visit a library with proof of ID and address.
Joining in Person
  • Visit any Lewisham library and ask to sign up.
  • Bring proof of identity (such as a passport or driving licence) and address (such as a utility bill or bank statement).
  • A library card will be issued immediately, allowing you to borrow books and use library services.
Membership Benefits
  • Borrow books, audiobooks, and DVDs
    Access free public computers and Wi-Fi
  • Use online resources such as e-books and research databases
  • Request and renew books online

You can search for books, e-books, audiobooks, and other materials in the Lewisham Libraries catalogue online.

Go to the Lewisham Libraries Website
  • Visit the Lewisham Libraries catalogue.
  • Use the Search Bar
  • Enter the book title, author, or keywords in the search box.
  • You can filter results by format (e.g., book, e-book, audiobook), availability, or location.
Check Availability
  • The catalogue will show if the book is available and which libraries have copies.
  • If a book is currently on loan, you may see a due date for its return.
  • Reserve a Book (If Needed)
  • If the book is not available at your preferred library, you can place a reservation.
  • Log in with your library card number and PIN to request the book to be sent to a library of your choice.
  • You will be notified when the book is ready for collection.
Borrowing Digital Books
  • If you’re looking for an e-book or audiobook, you can borrow and download it through apps like Libby or BorrowBox.
Browse the catalogue

We have a number of computers available for public use, which can be accessed with a library card. Once logged in, the computer management system will allocates an initial one-hour session, which can usually be extended up to a maximum of three hours per day, depending on demand.

  • Sessions cannot be booked in advance.
  • All computers run Windows 10 and include internet browsers, as well as tools like Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • There is no charge for computer use for Lewisham Library card holders. From September 1st we will be charging for the use of guest cards to access our computers. A guest card hire will be £1 for 1 hour
Printing and Photocopying
  • Printing must be done from one of the library computers.
  • It is not possible to print from a phone, personal laptop, or USB stick.
  • Charges start at 20p per A4 black and white side and 50p per A4 colour side.
  • The cost is 20p per black and white side and 50p per colour side.
  • A3 printing and copying service are available at our Manor House, Forest Hill and Sydenham sites. 30p per black and white side and £1 per colour side.
  • If you need to print more than 200 pages, please speak to a staff member as discounts may be available.
Scanning
  • Scanning is currently free, but you will need a USB stick to save your scanned documents.
  • If you don’t have one, USB sticks are usually available for purchase at reception.

There is no dedicated study space but we provide quiet and comfortable space for individuals who need a place to read, work, or study.

  • Open to all visitors and does not require a booking.

This does not apply to tutors. If you wish to use the library to tutor students in you must first register with us and book a table with our bookings manager by contacting bookings@calicoprojects.com. Tables cost £10 and hour (discounts may be available for bulk booking)

  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the library, and public computers can be used for research or document preparation.
  • We do not allow users to make telephone or video calls.

Launching July 2025 at Sydenham Library

Lewisham is the most diverse borough in the whole country, and Calico Projects is dedicated to reaching and serving every part of our community. We were therefore delighted when we heard that the good people of the Black British Book Festival were looking for a space to hold a collection of contemporary works written by Black British authors.

Fast forward a year and a bit, and this reference-only resource now sits in its own dedicated space in Sydenham Library. The collection holds a wide range of Black literature across all styles and genres: fiction and memoir, poetry and prose. Some are by writers that you know and admire – Marcus Rashford! Percival Everett! David Harewood! – and some are a little more obscure. We’ve got blockbusters and cult classics, bestsellers and hidden gems, books for children and adults and readers of all ages.

Taken altogether it amounts to a valuable resource, but it’s more than that. It’s a celebration of the depth and strength of Black writing in Britain and beyond. It’s another reason to visit your wonderful local library. It’s a library within a library. And we’re proud that we were able to give it a home.

Sydenham Library has a collection of more than one hundred board games and jigsaw puzzles available for library users to play and borrow. You are welcome to play any of the games in the library – as long as you keep the noise down! If you have a Lewisham library card, you can borrow up to two games for a month at a time.
 
We also host a free board games night on the first Tuesday of the month, starting at 5.30pm and running to around 9. Children and families are very welcome, however younger children must be accompanied by an adult.
 
If you have any spare games that you would like to donate, then we’d be delighted to accept them. As long as they are in good condition and don’t have any crucial pieces missing. Please call the library to discuss any donation.
Browse the catalogue

From October 2025, Sydenham Library has been hosting a Citizens’ Advice Booth: a dedicated, private space that library users can use to access assistance from Citizens’ Advice Lewisham.

The booth contains an easy-to-use tablet that can be used to browse CAB’s Self-Help portal. This contains guidance on housing, benefits, employment and many other subjects, along with the details for local agencies and other useful contacts.

For any more specific or complex questions, the tablet can connect directly to a CAB adviser: users can discuss their concerns and receive specialist advice on how best to approach matters.

The booth is free to use and there is no need to book. The adviser is available between 10.30 and 12.30, Monday to Thursday; the directory is available for browsing any time during library opening hours.

Find out more

At Calico Libraries, every volunteer brings unique energy and perspective. Whether you love books, enjoy cultural experiences, or want to make a positive impact, there is a place for you here. Our volunteers love the welcoming, community-focused atmosphere where connecting with others feels natural and every contribution matters.

We encourage students to contact us directly for work experience or Duke of Edinburgh placements. Reaching out yourself is the first step in taking responsibility, showing initiative, and making the most of your volunteering experience.

What's on at Sydenham?

13 October 2026

Rhyme TimeRepeating Event
  • Cost Free (donations welcome)
  • Age range Under 2's

Sydenham Library, 210 Sydenham Rd, London SE26 5SE

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13 October 2026

Book Writing ClubWeekly
  • Cost Free (donations welcome)
  • Age range 5 - 10

Sydenham Library, 210 Sydenham Rd, London SE26 5SE

View Detail
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What's on at Sydenham?

October 2026
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How to find us

  • Monday 10:00AM - 05:00PM
  • Tuesday 10:00AM - 05:00PM
  • Wednesday 10:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Thursday 10:00AM - 05:00PM
  • Friday 10:00AM - 05:00PM
  • Saturday 10:00AM - 04:00PM
  • Sunday Closed
  • Bank Holidays Closed

Contact Sydenham Library

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