MARX MEMORIAL LIBRARY
Provision of a library of books, manuscripts and periodicals relating to the science of marxism, the history of socialism and the working class movement and the development of education provision thereof. Printing catalogues, bibliographies & other materials. Providing lectures & guided tours for the public & for students.
Financial health, per its FY2025 accounts
The accounts state that the charity achieved an operating surplus of £24,908 for the year ended 31 December 2025, driven by strong investment income and donations. The trustees report that unrestricted reserves were maintained at a level equivalent to between three and six months of expenditure, ensuring the charity could continue its activities. The independent examiner confirmed that the accounts accord with the records and comply with applicable regulations.
What the accounts disclose
“Investment income 82,051” — page 17
“It is the policy of the charity that unrestricted funds which have not been designated for a specific use should be maintained at a level equivalent to between three and six month's expenditure.” — page 4
“The Library, Land and Buildings are held on a 51 year lease which terminates in 2047, and are ultimately owned by Marx House Limited, a company incorporated in the UK.” — page 19
Trustees
- Alexander Gordonchair
- Claudia Webbe
- Cllr Ruth Hayes
- Dr Jonathan White
- Harsev Bains Treasurer
- Helen Lindsay
- James Mowatt
- Jane Anne Rosen
- Lord JOHN HENDY KC
- Mariela Kohon
- Marjorie Mayo
- Mary Gillian Davis
- Professor JOHN FOSTER
- Richard Clarke
- Simon George Renton
Income and spending
| Financial year end | Income | Spending |
|---|---|---|
| 31/12/2025 | £392k | £367k |
| 31/12/2024 | £246k | £265k |
| 31/12/2023 | £212k | £267k |
| 31/12/2022 | £472k | £185k |
| 31/12/2021 | £331k | £174k |
Common questions
Is MARX MEMORIAL LIBRARY financially healthy?
Per its FY2025 accounts: The accounts state that the charity achieved an operating surplus of £24,908 for the year ended 31 December 2025, driven by strong investment income and donations. The trustees report that unrestricted reserves were maintained at a level equivalent to between three and six months of expenditure, ensuring the charity could continue its activities. The independent examiner confirmed that the accounts accord with the records and comply with applicable regulations. Its FY2025 accounts were independently examined.
Government & lottery funding
| Funder | Date | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| The National Lottery Heritage Fund | 13/07/2022 | £94k | "Marx Memorial Library at 90: Enduring & Engaging" |
| The National Lottery Heritage Fund | 03/11/2016 | £10k | "The impact of the Russian Revolution on the course and outcome of WW1" |
| The National Lottery Heritage Fund | 08/04/2015 | £10k | "Socialist Opposition to World War One" |
| The National Lottery Heritage Fund | 12/08/1997 | £391k | "Marx Memorial Library Cataloguing" |