Lea Bridge Library’s new million pound extension is now open to the public.

The original listed building in Lea Bridge Road, built in 1905, now benefits from a multi-use space and cafe, overlooking Friendship Gardens at the rear.

The library opened on September 20 and will be open seven days a week, with part of its new space available to hire.

This Is Local London: Image: Josh Mellor

Cutting the ribbon, newly-elected council leader Cllr Grace Williams said: “This is a country where it’s been harder and harder to keep libraries open.

“Libraries are a hub for communities, somewhere that everyone can come, a place where people can access our services and just a nice place in general.”

This Is Local London: The Lea Bridge Library extension. Image: Josh Mellor

The council’s ambition was for the library to become a 'community hub' and point of contact for council services.

Money raised from the former Wood Street Library site contributed £600,000 to the construction, while a further £400,000 came from Greater London Authority’s regeneration funds.

This Is Local London: The extension runs the length of Friendship Gardens.

Waltham Forest Council has been asked to provide more detail on the funding sourced from the former library site.