Bristol's biggest library, though that doesn't mean its huge, has all you would expect. They've got…read morebanks of computers (that get filled up with students from City of Bristol college), obscure local archives, and a comprehensive fiction section. Unexpected bonuses include a wonderful room for working in upstairs, with rows of wooden desks. Silence reigns in this part of the library, and if you need somewhere quiet to get some reading done in the middle of the city, you can go here without having to buy a cup of coffee. They also have a good sheet music section, and a range of CDs and DVDs on offer - no need to go and pay at Blockbusters. A say 'in this part of the library' because its not necessarily the quietest of places. Keen on enticing the entire community, the kids section usually has a toddler screaming. I don't say this critically, libraries are better places when they're a bit lively, but bear this in mind when visiting. There's plenty to choose from here, and they have a catalogue that links up to the rest of the area, so they can order stuff in for you. If you visit for the first time remember to take along a utility bill so they can let you borrow. Bristol Central Library offers everything you'd expect and a few things you wouldn't in a friendly, convivial setting.

The central library is located next to the cathedral on college green and has an extensive…read morecollection of information in a variety of sources. The downstairs houses most of the non fiction material, and also has a small cafe/eating area, where you are also allowed to eat your own food. Upstairs is the reference section and main computer hub. Make sure you book an computer from the host one or you won't be able to log in. The library is pretty large, but just accommodates the amount of people it is required to, and can get pretty busy during the day - I too have been one of those printing out CVs and clogging up the photocopier. The staff here are really friendly and accommodating - they'll help you find exactly what you need to. Don't be afraid to ask!

As I'm quite 'green' and live in a modern house, I have a water meter. Consequently I tend not to…read moresquander the utility, so I was a little shocked at a recent bill. I was sure that prices hadn't risen in line with my increased bill and wasn't aware that I had a problem, so I rang to check the reading and ask their advice. I was very pleasantly surprised by how helpful the person I spoke with - on their general phone number - was. Without my even asking for such detail, she quickly analysed my daily usage and compared it both with my previous charges and average use. The results put my mind at rest. I was reassured and happy that I wasn't being wasteful and that my usage and charges were reasonable. Five stars for customer service, courtesy and good communication.

Nothing against them. I now have to pay my water rates as I now own my council flat. In a block…read moresuch as the one I live in, I think it's normal that one receives a flat fee per year instead of having a water meter. I've found their call-centre staff okay and I can pay my yearly fee in easy monthly installments. Only very rarely has there been a problem with water supply to my flat. One can use their automated payment option over the phone by debit card when the call-centre is closed. Nobody likes paying bills, I suppose, but I think the benefits of privatisation exceed the drawbacks, I like owning my flat and pipes need to be paid for.