The guildford institute
founded 1834
The Guildford Institute is an independent charity that has been serving the local community since 1834.
We are a membership organisation but open to all. Join our community as a member: Single £35 per year; Joint £60 per year; Single-Life £580; Joint-Life £900.
Currently over 500 members
Membership application form available at guildford-institute.org.uk/membership/
Background
Based in the heart of Guildford, the Institute’s mission is to provide an educational, cultural and social community hub offering a special place for people of all backgrounds to meet, learn and explore. We have been based in our beautiful Grade II listed building since1892, celebrating our 130 year anniversary in 2022. With a wide range of courses, talks, visits and events, there are many ways to enjoy what’s on offer.
Our historic Library has remained in the same room since1892; it originally accommodated the book collection acquired during the latter half of the 19th century. Now run by a dedicated team of volunteers, whether you’re looking to browse, borrow on research, everyone is welcome. Our Library holds both historical and modern volumes and we also manage one of the most important local history archives in the area with a fascinating collection of photographs, playbills, brochures and leaflets and other important documents.
We offer affordable room hire for external societies and organisations and are home to V Café, Guildford’s only vegetarian and vegan restaurant, which offers delicious homemade lunches. .
The Guildford Institute is open to everyone – come and be a part of our extraordinary community.
Collection
With its floor-to-ceiling bookcases, our original collection of 200 volumes purchased in the 19th century has grown to around 14,000. Our collection is made up of historical volumes, Victorian periodicals, modern fiction, non-fiction and much more. The Library is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays for research, browsing and for members to borrow books. Our eclectic Archive Collection is used by researchers in Guildford and across the world, helping investigations into family history, local events, changes in the environment and much more. Now almost fully digitised, these records are available to search online, making this an exceptional local history resource.
Building
Grade II listed building. The Guildford Institute has remained on the same site in the centre of Guildford for 130 years , inspiring and delighting people across the local area.
Contact information
Ward Street, Guildford, Surrey GU1 4LH
tel: 01483 562 142 / email: library@guildford-institute.org.uk
Opening hours:
Wednesday: 1pm – 4pm
Thursday and Friday: 9.30am – 12.30pm
Website
www.guildford-institute.org.uk
Status
Registered charity no 1125031