Thomas Plume’s Library was founded in 1704 under the terms of the will of Dr Thomas Plume, Vicar of Greenwich and Archdeacon of Rochester, who had been born in Maldon in 1630. He bequeathed to his native town his collection of c.8,100 books and pamphlets, to be kept in the building which he had constructed from the ruins of the old St Peter’s Church in the centre of the town, on the corner of Market Hill and the High Street.

The church building, which is owned by Maldon Town Council, still stands, very little changed, and still houses his books, kept on their original shelves, as well as his small collection of paintings. Although they may no longer be borrowed, books from the Library may be consulted by appointment during normal opening hours and the catalogue may be consulted online.

The Library and its Friends organise a number of events during the year, including the annual Plume Lecture.

The Library is always in need of donations to help towards its running costs.

The Library is a member of The Association of Independent Museums, The Independent Libraries Association, and The Historic Libraries Forum.

21 June 2025: Our phone line is not working at the moment. Please email us on: info@thomasplumeslibrary.co.uk to contact Library Staff.

Our normal opening hours are Tuesday to Thursday: 2pm-4pm and Saturday mornings 10am-12 noon.

We have a winter closure period between Christmas and March and we are closed on Easter Saturdays. Research enquiries are welcome during the winter closure.