<p>The Ermine Library and Community Hub (ELCH) is a civic amenity in the city of Lincoln, UK. Opened in 1962, it has served the residents of the Ermine Estate since then but closed in March 2020 and did not re-open until July 2022. It provides access to books and computers as well as hosted services and a range of activities and groups for all ages. This study explores the contribution the ELCH makes as a ‘third place’ to social cohesion through the range of leisure activities and experiences it provides. Based on a case study design, during the spring and summer of 2025 semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with key stakeholders: library users – both adults (<i>n</i> = 5) and children (<i>n</i> = 4); community leaders (<i>n</i> = 6); and elected representatives (<i>n</i> = 6). There was general agreement about the positive influence of the ELCH within the community, partly as a free, safe and welcoming space, partly as a venue for information, resources and learning, partly as an opportunity for social interaction and participation in shared interests, and partly for fun. Consistent with other research on the impact of leisure on social cohesion, participants reported the importance of the ELCH for addressing social isolation and its corollary for mental health, for the benefits for inter-generational understanding and appreciation of diversity, for civic engagement, and for community pride. </p>