Friends of Rottingdean Library

Support Rottingdean Library

Following the successful Save Rottingdean Library Campaign , we have formed the Friends of Rottingdean Library group to support use of this wonderful community resource in Rottingdean. We want to encourage people of all ages in Rottingdean to join and use the library resources.

On this website you will find information about upcoming events, how to start a bookclub, and reading ideas for all ages.

The history of the campaign is here.

About our library

Rottingdean Library is based in the beautiful Grange in the heart of Rottingdean Village. Originally a Georgian house built as a vicarage, The Grange was renamed by the famous artist Sir William Nicholson when he lived here before WW1. The Grange also houses an Art Gallery and Museum run by Rottingdean Heritage, and a seasonal tea room opening onto the Gertrude Jekyll designed gardens at the back. Find out more about the Grange on the Rottingdean Heritage website here

You can take a virtual tour through the Library here

Libraries Extra

During Libraries Extra hours the library will be self-service. To use the library at this time you'll need a library card and PIN. Children and young people under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. On staffed days lunchtime (1pm to 2pm) operates as Libraries Extra.

Join the library

Step one - make sure you have joined Rottingdean Library - high membership numbers helps to make the case for keeping our library open. You can start the application online here and collect your membership card at Rottingdean Library. Members can use all of BHCC's library network!

Use the library

There's a wonderful selection of books in Rottingdean library for all ages. There's a warm, quiet space to read, regular events for pre-schoolers and bookclubs. There are audio books and access to internet services. Access to computers can be pre-booked. Get in there and borrow a book!

Book lists

Inspiration for your next read - there are lots of ways to get inspiration, try GoodReads' readers choice of 2025 - or ask a friend...

Library sections

Rottingdean library includes sections on cookery, local history, crime, general fiction, children (by age), LGBT in fact... something for everyone. There are regular themed displays of new books - get in there and get inspired!

Reading Well

Reading is great for your mental health

See a load of suggested reading lists for different ages and groups here

Book clubs

There are already several bookclubs running at Rottingdean Library - so popular that they are currently not taking new members. But you can start your own!

Brighton & Hove Libraries provide a service to reading groups who are either privately-run or who meet on library premises.

If you’d like to set up your own group, they’d be happy to help.

Benefits of joining a book group

You'll get:

access to over 370 dedicated book group titles, which are frequently added to
prize-winning novels, short stories, thrillers, classics, biographies and non-fiction
10 books in our book sets, available for a 42-day loan period
support and advice on running your group

How much it costs

The cost for each group is £30.90 per year, with book sets supplied on a monthly basis.

Contact: bookgroupslibraries@brighton-hove.gov.uk

See also advice and inspiration at the Book Club Hub