Fairytale New Chapter for Greenford Library
Leading children's author helps cut the ribbon at transformed venue
Ealing’s Deputy Lieutenant Richard Kornicki (left) and Sam Copeland (right) officially open the new Community Hub
January 28, 2026
A beloved local library once facing closure has been given a new lease of life, thanks to the determination of Greenford residents and the support of the Young Ealing Foundation.
On Saturday 27 January, the newly transformed space—now known as The Hub @ Greenford Library—was officially opened at a fairytale-themed celebration attended by local dignitaries, families, and community leaders.
The ribbon was cut by Sam Copeland, bestselling children’s author and champion of libraries, alongside Ealing’s Deputy Lieutenant Richard Kornicki and Deputy Leader of Ealing Council Louise Brett. The event marked the beginning of a new chapter for the library, which has been reimagined as a vibrant, community-managed hub offering far more than books.
Children were treated to a live reading by Sam, while guests enjoyed performances from young people who now attend The Hub’s youth club, as well as a living history installation that brought Greenford’s past to life. “Libraries were hugely important to me as a child,” said the author. “We must do all we can to protect them, and I am delighted to help open this wonderfully transformed space.”
The library, previously run by Ealing Council, was due to close in 2025. Instead, it was handed over to a group of local volunteers working in partnership with the Young Ealing Foundation, a charity dedicated to improving opportunities for children and young people across the borough. “Greenford was a real cold spot for youth services,” said Elly Heaton, Chief Executive of the Foundation. “We won’t accept that for our children. We hope The Hub will be a shining example of how a community can come together to achieve more than we could on our own.”
YEF CEO Elly Heaton with library volunteers
The Hub is now open to the public two days a week—Wednesdays from 10am to 2pm and Thursdays from 1pm to 5pm—with plans to expand hours in consultation with the community. During opening times, visitors can borrow books, use the IT suite, and enjoy a welcoming space for all ages. Outside of these hours, the building hosts a wide range of community programmes, including parent-carer coffee mornings, knit and natter groups, careers support, adult education classes, and children’s activities such as arts and crafts and rhyme time.
The Hub is also actively seeking volunteers to help with everything from book lending to social media. Anyone with a few hours to spare and a passion for community is encouraged to get involved. Details are available at greenfordlibrary.org.uk/volunteer.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Lieutenant Richard Kornicki praised the initiative saying, “There is always something inspiring about a community coming together to meet its own needs. Libraries open doors to whole new worlds and experiences—the benefits of which can literally last a lifetime.”
Cllr Louise Brett, Deputy Leader of Ealing Council, echoed the sentiment: “This project is a testament to our strong partnership and shared values. We are excited to see the community drive this significant step forward for the area.”
The Hub @ Greenford Library is currently in the process of registering as a charity and offers space for hire to local groups and organisations working for the benefit of the community. More information about bookings, programmes, and opening hours can be found at greenfordlibrary.org.uk.
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