Image credit: Justinc / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 2.0 · 2005-12-04 ↗
Marx Memorial Library: Lenin, Radical Printing and a Library Currently Closed
Clerkenwell Green · St Paul’s → Newgate → Smithfield → Clerkenwell · Political history / library / print culture
Story
On Clerkenwell Green, this eighteenth-century building holds several layers of London’s radical history. It began as a Welsh charity school and was later associated with the Twentieth Century Press, a printing house with socialist leanings. In the early twentieth century, Vladimir Lenin worked here during his London period, involved in the production of <i>Iskra</i>, the Russian revolutionary newspaper. The building still retains murals and other features recalling its publishing past and connections to political movements. In 1933, amid the rise of fascism in Europe, the Marx Memorial Library was founded here. Its purpose was to preserve and study Marxist writings and the history of the labour movement. Its collections encompass trade unionism, the Spanish Civil War, anti-fascist movements, and British socialism, reflecting the site's enduring commitment to these historical causes.
What to look for
Observe the facade of this eighteenth-century building and look for the library's identification. Once it reopens to the public, look for the historic printing elements, murals, and historic rooms inside.
Secret detail
The walls of this building echo with the revolutionary ideas of figures like Lenin, who worked here on the production of a newspaper aiming to change the course of Russian history from the heart of London.
Where exactly
Find number 37A on Clerkenwell Green.
Orientation
From Clerkenwell Green, face the building directly.
Why it matters
This place is a tangible testament to the history of radical thought and the labour movement in London, showing how the city served as a refuge and a hub for political ideas that had a global impact.
Access & opening
Summer closure 27 Jul–3 Sep 2026. Tours normally Mon 12:00 and Thu 16:00; tours restart Mon 7 Sep. Reading Room Tue–Thu 11:00–16:00 by appointment outside closure.
Current guided tours normally £10 full / £5 concession; research access by appointment.
We never show live status. Check opening hours before you go.
Accessibility
Grade II listed building has no lift and no step-free toilets, per official site.