About the Micro Library
This red telephone box has been repurposed as a free Micro Library for residents and visitors of Enfield Island Village. The idea is simple: take a book, read a book, or leave a book. There’s no membership, no fees, and no deadlines—just a shared commitment to community, curiosity, and kindness. Whether you’re on your morning walk, waiting for a friend, or taking a break from gardening, you’re warmly invited to browse the collection inside. The Micro Library is entirely community-led and run by volunteers from the Enfield Island Village Trust.
We will soon be adding:
- A dedicated children’s book box on the floor of the booth.
- A laminated map of Enfield Island Village and a brief historical overview—displayed on the outside panel for public reference.
How It Works
- Borrow a book and return it when finished.
- Donate books you’ve enjoyed and wish to share with others.
- Exchange a book one-for-one if you’d like to keep what you’ve taken.
- Please only leave books in good, clean condition.
- No magazines, religious tracts, political material, or damaged books please.
- If donating children’s books, kindly place them in the designated lower section (available soon).
This initiative operates on trust and goodwill. Let’s keep the collection tidy, inclusive, and suitable for all ages.
A Brief History of the Iconic Red Telephone Box
The red telephone box is a cherished symbol of British heritage. Designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the most iconic version—the K6 model—was introduced in 1936 to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of King George V. Its elegant domed roof, glazed windows, and bright red colour made it instantly recognisable and a beloved fixture of British streets.
Though now largely obsolete for telecommunications, these boxes have found new life as defibrillator stations, art galleries, and—like ours—a community book exchange. They represent a beautiful blend of nostalgia and civic repurposing.
🏝 A Short History of Enfield Island Village
Enfield Island Village sits on a historic piece of land once occupied by the Royal Small Arms Factory (RSAF), established in 1816 to produce weapons for the British Army. At its peak, the factory played a pivotal role in national defence and technological innovation—producing the famous Lee-Enfield rifle among others.
Following its closure in the late 1980s, the area was transformed into a residential development in the late 1990s. The island is surrounded by waterways and boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, heritage architecture, and tight-knit community spirit. Today, Enfield Island Village is governed by a resident-led trust that looks after its upkeep, green spaces, and now, its own Micro Library.
A Note of Thanks – EIVT July 2025
This project has only been made possible through the work of EIVT trustees (and the donation from RSA), who are all residents and volunteers. We extend heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in the construction, restoration, and continued care of the Micro Library. Let’s continue to build a culture of reading, sharing, and neighbourly connection—one book at a time.
