The Reading Room, Papworth St Agnes

History of the Reading Room

No of rooms: 1, later 2.

In 1942: empty

The grandfather of John Spering was asked by the villagers whether they could have a pub but he refused. John’s father, Arthur Sperling, had the Reading Room built so the men of the village could have somewhere to meet in winter evenings. He provided books, dartboard and heating. Alcohol was forbidden.

Before WWII the Reading Room was used by young people for playing cards, dominoes, bagatelle etc. It was also known as the Institute.