As London Data Week gets underway, I'm pleased to announce the launch of the Data for London Library, the new front door to the city's growing and diverse data ecosystem.
This is the first phase of the Data for London platform, a significant step forward from the original London Datastore. It is designed to make finding and sharing data about the capital quicker, easier and more collaborative. Whether you're a policymaker, researcher, community group, or entrepreneur, the Library helps you discover information that can be used to solve problems, create new services, and improve life in London.
The Mayor committed to rebuilding our data infrastructure to support a more inclusive and sustainable city. Today, we begin to deliver on that commitment. The Data for London Library already contains 5,000+ datasets – more than triple the number available on the existing London Datastore. But more importantly, it's been built with and for its users. We've worked closely with partners across London's data community, including local authorities, civil society groups, and technology leaders, to design something that works for the real world.
This isn't about technology for its own sake. It's about practical value. A good example is how housing energy data in the London Building Stock Model has been used to support the Warmer Homes programme, helping boroughs identify homes in need of retrofitting and targeting support where it's needed most. That kind of insight only happens when data is easy to find, shared effectively and used responsibly.
London's strength lies in collaboration. Across 33 boroughs, world-class research institutions, and a vibrant voluntary and community sector, we see innovation every day. The new Library connects these efforts and helps people work together more easily. It is also part of London's ambition to remain at the forefront of digital growth, building the infrastructure that supports data-driven innovation in areas like AI, net zero, and public service reform.
This is the foundation we need if we want new technologies to work for everyone. AI systems are only as good as the data they are trained on. If we want to ensure these systems are fair, transparent and effective, then we must focus on the plumbing – making sure that high-quality, representative data is available and discoverable in a way that protects public trust.
The Data for London Library – Search city data, all in one place
Phase one of the platform – the Data for London Library – focuses on data discovery: helping people find useful datasets, whether open or privately held but potentially shareable. Later phases will support secure and flexible data sharing, including real-time data and more complex arrangements that protect privacy while supporting new services and products that enable insight.
This is a long-term project and we're proud to have Bloomberg Philanthropies' support in the early development phase. We're also working closely with organisations like the Open Data Institute and BusinessLDN to ensure the Library meets the needs of users across sectors.
But this is just the beginning. We are launching the Library as a beta so that we can continue to improve it with input from the people who use it.
Here's how you can help
First, explore and share the Library. Whether you're building services, doing research, or simply curious, take a look at what's available at dfl.london.gov.uk and pass it on to others who might benefit.
Second, if you hold data – especially open data – we'd love to work with you to get it listed. Even if it's private data, we can help you share metadata to improve discoverability while protecting sensitive information.
Third, get involved. You can join our user research pool, suggest features, or partner with us on future developments. This is a platform built by and for Londoners, and we want to keep it growing in the right direction.
London has always led the way in using data for public good. From the cholera maps of John Snow to Transport for London's open data and the rise of civic technology, we have a strong legacy of using information to improve the city.
The Data for London Library is the next chapter in that story. Visit dfl.london.gov.uk and be part of building the future of London's data.
Theo Blackwell
Chief Digital Officer for London