When you’re settling into life in London, finding the right place to study can make a real difference to your routine. DMU London is surrounded by quiet corners, community libraries and student-friendly spaces where you can focus without spending a penny. All of the locations below are within easy walking distance of The Amp, and each offers something slightly different – so you can choose the space that works best for you.
The Amp’s study spaces
You’ll always have space to study inside our building. The Amp offers:
- Bright open areas for group work
- Quiet corners for individual study
- Charging points, comfortable seating and reliable Wi-Fi
It’s a supportive environment where you’ll see fellow students, meet our team and get help when you need it. But when you want a change of scenery, Whitechapel and Aldgate give you plenty of options right on your doorstep.
Free local libraries near DMU London
Idea Store Whitechapel
The Idea Store Whitechapel is one of the closest and most popular local libraries for DMU London students. It combines library services with a bright, modern design that feels more like a creative learning space than a traditional library.
Why students love it:
- Free study spaces with plenty of desks and computers
- Free membership for anyone living, working or studying in the borough
- Helpful staff familiar with student needs
It’s a great place to build a regular study routine, especially if you prefer working away from campus.
Tower Hamlets Local History Library and Archives
While this space focuses on local history, it also provides peaceful reading rooms and Wi-Fi that are open to the public.
Why it’s ideal for studying:
- Large, quiet reading rooms
- A calmer, more traditional library atmosphere
- Free access and a supportive team of librarians
It’s perfect for students who prefer quiet, contemplative environments.
Idea Store Aldgate
Smaller than Whitechapel’s Idea Store but still modern and comfortable, this library offers free access to study areas, computers and books.
Why students love it:
- Calm study areas
- Good for shorter sessions or quick drop-ins
- Convenient if you live near Aldgate East or Spitalfields
It’s a handy alternative when you need a break from campus but don’t want to travel far.
Other study spaces near campus
Local community centres (drop-in areas)
Several community hubs around Whitechapel and Aldgate offer free seating areas and Wi-Fi. These vary in size and opening hours, but they are friendly, inclusive places where students are always welcome.
Typical benefits:
- Free entry
- Comfortable seating
- Social, supportive environment
They’re useful when you want a laid-back, communal space rather than a silent study room.
Public parks for good-weather study
While not ideal for laptop-heavy work, nearby parks such as Altab Ali Park and Stepney Green Park can be great for reading, revising or group discussions on sunny days.
How to join local libraries for free
Most public libraries in East London offer free membership to anyone who:
- Lives locally
- Works in the borough
- Or studies at an institution in the area
Membership usually allows you to:
- Use study rooms
- Borrow books and access e-books, audiobooks and online journals
- Use public computers and internet access, with printing available for a small fee
All you’ll typically need is proof of address and your student ID.
Building your study routine in London
Studying in a new country takes confidence – and the right environment helps. The spaces around campus give you the freedom to choose how and where you work:
- Quiet libraries for deep focus
- Creative spaces for inspiration
- Campus study areas for support and connection
- Community hubs for a relaxed atmosphere
Wherever you choose to study, you’ll be part of a wider DMU London community that wants you to succeed, feel supported and get the most from your learning experience.