The Leaks

Any conversation about the Canning Town Old Library inevitably includes a mention to the building’s beauty, outside and in. But the late-19th century library had its issues in the final years before its closure in 2017.

Maz Xavier, who worked at the library at this time, noted the “surreal” nature of the old building, with its lack of central heating. “When it’s cold, it’s cold.”

She recalled one occasion when, following a spate of bad weather, there were several leaks. Buckets were brought out, and the area was evacuated. It was hoped the issue would subside, but it didn’t. “It’s not our decision to close the library, or to section any part off,” Maz noted in September 2025. “We went for as long as we could, but then we had to close the library down. We were walking in puddles, and squishes on the carpet.”

Historically, a building caretaker lived on site, but this tradition was long over by the 21st Century. Instead, a maintenance team was called in to try and make the building safe again.

Naturally, even a temporary closure of the library impacted on those who used the library for warmth or shelter. “We told the customers they had to leave now because of the weather, but nobody could leave because it was pouring down with rain, and not many people had umbrellas. Even if you did, your umbrella would have broken because it was windy.”

The atrocious weather also caused a power cut, which led to the fire brigade coming to check the building. “They turned off all the electricity,” Maz said. “That’s why we were in darkness. A lovely councillor gave me a hand torch. It was quite an exciting day, actually. I came to work and I didn’t expect this. Unfortunately, I had to throw away my shoes, and they were quite nice shoes too.

“I’ll never forget the flooding. I’ve never worked anywhere where there’s flooding, you get wet, you have to throw away your shoes and close down the service. But we did have fun.”

Here’s hoping the renovation process has ensured the building’s safety – and dryness – for future generations.