Helena Bonham Carter has recently made history by becoming the first female president of the prestigious London Library in its 181 years since its establishment. She was officially appointed on the 15th of November 2022, replacing Sir Tim Rice after his five year term.

The Beginnings of The London Library

Established in 1841, The London Library was London’s first ever lending library. Behind the scenes, some of London’s best and brightest were working to fund and grow its collection. At one point in its history, Charles Hagberg Wright was knighted after his 40 years of dedication and service to the library. Other notable names include Winston Churchill, who was at one point honorary Vice-President, and T.S. Elliot served as library President from 1952 until his passing in 1965.

The collection is so large it has reached over 1 million books and periodicals, and there are books dating all the way back to 1500; 6,000 more books are added each year! The London Library is truly the beating heart of literature and literary history.

The Love of Literature 

Helena Bonham Carter has been a member of the library since 1986. The decision to appoint her was impacted by her creativity and passion for stories. Presidents of the library have many responsibilities, including spreading awareness, fundraising, and working with the writing programs associated with the library. 

In an article by ilovelibraries, Carter is quoted saying, “The library is truly a place like no other, inspiring and supporting writers for over 180 years, many of whom have in some way informed my own career and those of actors everywhere,” Bonham Carter said. “The library’s unique resources, history, and membership help to connect the literary greats of the past with those of the future.”