Dartford Library

Dartford Central Library and Museum stands in the town centre of Dartford, Kent. The building opened in 1916 with support from Andrew Carnegie and was designed by Thomas E. Tiffin. Soldiers recovering from wounds in nearby military hospitals were among its first visitors. The library was later expanded over the site of the old Dartford tin works. During the Second World War its cupola dome served as an air raid watchpost. The library’s 2016 refit linked it directly to Dartford Museum. A gallery named after Peter Blake now displays work by local artists. The building has also appeared on the television series Most Haunted. It remains run by Kent County Council today. Inside, visitors find bookshelves, reading areas and the Peter Blake Gallery. The museum section holds local history collections. The cupola dome still crowns the building, recalling its wartime role. The library’s stone walls and grand entrance reflect its Edwardian origins.