The Marx Memorial Library & Workers School is a working library in Clerkenwell Green, with archives on socialism, communism, trade unionism and working-class history. Its collection includes newspapers, pamphlets, posters, documents and memorabilia, with material on the printing and paper trades once based nearby. A guided tour brings the building’s history and its links to Lenin into focus, including the room where he worked. Go for a closer look at political history and the library’s archival collections.
A library founded for workers’ education
Marx Memorial Library & Workers School was founded in 1933 to advance education and learning in Marxism, socialism and the working-class movement. It has been part of the British labour movement for more than eighty years.
The library’s work extends beyond its physical collection. Its education programme runs online and onsite, with subjects ranging from Marxist political economy to socialist art.
Archives and the building’s history
The library holds published and archival material on socialism, communism and trade unionism, as well as peace and solidarity movements and the Spanish Civil War. The collection includes newspapers, pamphlets, posters, documents and memorabilia. Material relating to printing and paper industries has a particular connection to the surrounding area, where those industries were based.
Lenin briefly worked in the building in the early twentieth century. A guided visit covers the history of the library and building, and includes the room associated with his time there. The collection and tours give visitors a way to explore political history through both archival material and the place where some of it unfolded.
FAQ
What can you see at Marx Memorial Library?
The library holds archives and published material on socialism, communism, trade unionism, peace and solidarity movements, and the Spanish Civil War. A tour also covers the building’s history and the room where Lenin worked.
When can I take a tour?
Tours are recommended on Mondays. Check the library’s website for current tour details and booking information.
How much does a tour cost?
The listed tour fees are £5, or £3 at the concession price.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow about one to two hours for a guided visit. Tours are described as lasting over an hour, and some have run close to two hours.
