This is one of the most well-stocked public libraries I have used…read more It is crammed with all manner of lendable materials and they host useful community talks. The extensive bilingual section for children was extremely helpful to me when I was teaching in primary school. There is a great range of DVDs, language instruction materials and local area information. One star off for the staff. Not unwilling to help, but mostly unable. When I smile and say good afternoon, it is nice to have it reciprocated. That has never happened to me here.

Great library. It's improved immeasurably since it's refit, and it has a great stock of books. The…read moregraphic novel section in particular is very good with a great selection of alternative titles as well as the usual suspects. The staff are helpful and there's a nice atmosphere. There's a fair few PCs too, and members can use the internet for free.

The library is well stocked and they can usually get something that's not available on the floor…read more Its also easy to reserve. The staff are nice and helpful although there's one guy (older, bearded, glasses) who's really snarky, does the bare minimum to help, and talks to you like you're an idiot - strongly suggest avoiding him.

Having joined the Balham library a few weeks ago, I already managed to accumulate charges for one…read morebook. The joining process was easy enough...and yes they have warned me of the charges. I just forgot. I know ... I'm hopeless. The library in itself offers a wide range of literature and DVDs and also has a bestseller lending scheme. The more popular books have only a 2 week lending time and cannot be renewed. It gives more people the option to borrow it, but it got me in trouble as I forgot to give it back on time. Next to the usual volunteers at the lending desks, they also have an automated borrow and return system ... I guess it will come in handy in the few case you're too embarrassed with your reading choices to go to the lending desk. Balham library also offers free Wi-Fi and you can book a computer to use the Internet. As many other libraries these days it also offers courses in many different topics and has reading groups and kids time.

Love this place. Located just off the high road behind the church…read more A beautiful, traditional building with a great selection of books regularly topped up with the latest titles. Separate child's library so kid's can enjoy their books and adults can do the same but in peace and quiet.

My mum always points out how amazing it is that the local libraries cater for adults as well as…read morechildren. Even more, she is always amazed at the facilities Londoners are offered, when you compare to the lack of them in El Salvador, I can understand her astonishment. It is especially great that the children's section is so complete, and that taking books out is free! (as long as you are registered) It is a good place to take your little one for her to socialise with other children and for you to take a breather from being alone with your child. On Mondays there is an event were a lady reads and plays songs to the children. It is on a first come first serve basis so be there early if not they might not let you in. It has happened to me before. Books are great for the grown ups and there are plenty to choose from, as well as, free internet access, CDs and DVDs to rent (for £1 or some for free). I have become more of a bookworm because of this library, and I guess that can't be bad...

As a history buff, avid reader, and past library fundraiser, there is no way I could skip a visit…read moreto the British Library. We enjoyed roaming the floors during an unexpected rain shower, and enjoyed all the historical tomes exhibited here. We did not sign up for cards, and therefor did not get to explore the rooms or stacks, but we did enjoy our walk around. During college (as a history major), it was frequently joked that you haven't really researched in a library if you haven't wound up making out in the stacks... well, after a day of research, I enjoyed some fun pictures and 'making out' with my husband, making this a thoroughly educational stop in our London adventure.

The building may not be ancient but the treasures inside will keep you engaged for hours…read more Explore the various museum room and see if you're allowed to see some of the really old volumes. Rest in the cafe or sit and read a while in a chair or desk on the upper floors. Stroll the exterior and see the huge line that sometimes forms at (I guess) opening times? Enjoy the special kids programs at many times, and celebrate the love of reading young and old.

Housed within the V&A Museum is a vast collection of art and design books dating back centuries…read more You must register in order to use the library but anyone can join. It then works on a basis where you find a book using the computer database, order it and then 20 minutes later it will be brought to you by a librarian. You cannot take books out of the library but you can ask to use the same books again the following day. I originally went to the National Art Library in search of books on contemporary textile designers, I had little luck with this. However, for history of art purposes I have found the library immensely helpful. The library is usually very quiet and has a limited capacity making it an easy and pleasant to work in.

an okay library ... more for academic purposes (obviously, being a part of university of london)…read more it's hard to find 'normal' books here so unless you're writing an academic paper or history of art essay, it'll be less helpful. there are great study spaces though and membership comes free with being a student.

The towering structure of Senat House Library dominates the skyline of Russel Square. Someone told…read moreme the building was even used for filming in one of the Ghostbusters movies, though I'm not too sure if this is true. With one of the largest collections available in the UK, Senate House Library is popular amongst students and academics alike. Situated in UCL's main campus, access and borrowing privileges are restricted to those affiliated with the University of London or those permitted for research purposes. I didn't use this resource enough when I was a student and this is one thing I deeply regret. The working environment is excellent and, once you get used to the rather higgeldy-piggeldy layout, it's very easy to use.

I haven't been a member of a library for quite sometime, and I managed to forget the incredible…read moreamount of free things that comes with being one. I have frequented Hackney Library ever since becoming a member a few months ago. First of all, free films!!! Amazing!! The only problem is that the collection of decent films will only keep you going for a couple of months. The library is probably the only interaction I have with c.d.'s in this technological age. They are free to hire and there is actually some really good stuff. If the c.d.'s and books have not been there for a certain amount of time then you have to pay a small amount to hire them. The book collection is huge and diverse, and the abundance of computers are free to use. There is also scanning and printing available. I can't believe I neglected the library for so many years.

I remember when this library was nothing special, but since they done up the building, this is…read morereally a nice and modern library. Almost feels like a book store. They have a great selection of books and an impressive selection of DVDs to rent. This may no longer be my local area, but I still have my Hackney library card!