The Women's Library at 100: A Century of Struggle and Celebration in London
This year marks the centenary of the Women's Library in London, a pivotal institution founded by suffragist leader Millicent Fawcett. Originally launched by the London Society for Women's Service, the library was intended to house archives of the suffrage movement, which had achieved major victories with women gaining the vote in 1918 and equal suffrage in 1928. However, from its inception, the library looked beyond the ballot box, aiming to document women's work and broader social issues.
A Unique Collection Reflecting Ongoing Battles
The library's holdings have grown significantly over the decades, encompassing a vast range of themes related to women's rights and history. It features archives from key figures such as Helena Normanton, one of the first female barristers, and activists from the Women's Liberation Movement who fought for equal pay and anti-discrimination laws. The collection also includes papers from writer Barbara Cartland, former Guardian women's editor Mary Stott, and social reformer Eglantyne Jebb, founder of Save the Children.
A new commemorative display at the London School of Economics, where the library is now housed, highlights its historical significance. This exhibition showcases organizations like the Six Point group, led by former suffragette Lady Rhondda, which campaigned for issues such as equal pay for female teachers and equality in the civil service. These battles underscore how the fight for women's rights extended long after suffrage was won.
Challenges and Resilience Over the Years
Despite its importance, the Women's Library has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. Its Westminster premises were bombed in 1940, forcing a temporary move to Oxford. In 1976, historian Jill Liddington described the library as a "forgotten feminist world of dowdiness and neglect." More recently, in 2012, financial difficulties led to the closure of its purpose-built, lottery-funded space in the East End after just ten years.
The London School of Economics stepped in to rescue the library, providing a new home. While not open to the public for walk-in visits, researchers can access its precious collections, including letters, diaries, pamphlets, posters, and documents. This centenary serves as a reminder of the library's resilience and the ongoing need to preserve feminist history.
Looking to the Future Amid Global Struggles
The centenary is not only a celebration but also a call to action. At a time when women's rights are under threat in many countries, the Women's Library stands as a symbol of both struggle and strength. It honors less-celebrated founders like Millicent Fawcett, who received her statue in London 88 years after Emmeline Pankhurst, reminding us to continue facing the future with determination. The library's story is a testament to the enduring fight for equality and the importance of documenting women's contributions to society.
