On the 27th December I received a bombshell email.

Keolis Amey DLR have served notice that I am required by the 2nd February to remove the Free Book Library at Lewisham Station.

"The London Fire Brigade visited Lewisham DLR station on 20th November. As a result of their review, the station has now been re-classified as a Sub-Surface Railway station under the Fire Precautions (Sub-Surface Railway Stations) England Regulations 2009.

During the site visit, concerns were raised regarding the books displayed on the station concourse, as they do not conform to the new requirements we must adhere to. 

We regret to inform you that the bookshelves and books cannot remain in place in order to comply with the Fire Safety regulations.

This follows the receipt of an Alterations Notice under Article 29 of the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (as amended), which has been served by the London Fire Brigade and is effective from 3rd February 2025."

'Sub-Surface: of, relating to, or being something located beneath a surface and especially underground.'

Where the library is located is above ground and open to the elements on all sides.

Free libraries are located at the following stations: Finsbury Park, Highbury & Islington, Morden, Oval, Stratford and Tooting Bec.
All are located in a 'Sub-Surface' environment.

Last Summer South East Trains instructed me to remove the white bookcase, the piano bookshelf and a large Victorian bookcase after 'concerns were raised.' 

Consequently the availability of free books was much reduced.

The removal of the remaining four bookcases would be a hammer blow to our community.

Since I created the free libraries in May 2023 many thousands of people have gained benefit.
With the Public Library closed, this free library in a prime location has provided an invaluable resource.

I am now seeking your help:

TO ACHIEVE THE FOLLOWING OBJECTIVES:

1) Asking the London Fire Brigade to review the decisions that led to the issue of this notice to DLR and in the meantime delay its implementation.
2) Asking South-East Trains to find a means whereby the removed bookcases and piano bookshelf can be reinstated.

If you have received benefit from the library, or if you support the principle of Free Book Libraries please sign this petition AND share with like minded people.

THANK YOU.