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!

Big Central Library for the Islington / Highbury areas, but again - not the easiest place to get to…read morevia public transport unless you live very locally. Have to catch a bus down from Highbury & Islington tube station - otherwise it's quite a long walk along a busy & uninteresting road. Big fiction section - although I've never had much luck finding really recent / newly released books here. Decent non fiction section as well. Big dvd collection.

Great staff easy to join and good selection of books.read more

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.

Would definitely recommend checking out the British library at least once! It's a beautiful…read morebuilding with a lot of bookd and exhibits, as well as a little coffee shop. If you plan on seeing any of the actual exhibits or checking out the areas that actually house the books, you'll need to sign up for one of their cards. I also can't really imagine getting much work or studying done here. It can be pretty difficult to find a seat and it's so loud and busy that you may be better off going somewhere else.

A small library that services Hackney residents that live around the vicinity of Dalston Lane, a…read moremain thoroughfare in Hackney. This is a comparatively limited library, with excellent ramps and disabled access. I love a library where you can find a seat, grab a book, have a peruse and use the computers. This is not quite the place to do that, there are only three computers and the book collection is small. It is a great local resource though, with space available to rent out, and it works closely with local schools. if this is your local library, pop in and join, It is essential.

This is a smallish library, but a useful one. It's the place I tend to pop into for photocopying,…read moreand they have a pretty good machine for that, which can do multiple pages if you know how to work the feeder! Of course they also have free computer/internet access, which is bound to be useful at times. As to books, though not huge they have a good range. On my last visit I was able to find something to get into. Personally I think they are better on non-fiction, but then I'm into SF, and I find the selection here as unimaginative as it often is. I've seen they've just started an SF reading group there, so maybe I'll check that out. They get in newspapers which are very useful if you are skint and looking for a job! Very popular with their clientele too There's big notice boards too, though they are situated between the two sets of sliding doors at the entrance so reading them means you keep triggering the doors which is sort of annoying even when it's not drafty. Staff seem pretty good there is a children's library, but it's situated off into the depths of the building somewhere, so I've never seen it!

I really like this library even though it's awkward to get to if you don't live locally. It's…read morealmost next door to the British rail station 'Essex Road', but otherwise it's a bus ride from Upper Street in Angel or a fair walk halfway down Essex Road. There are a few stairs to walk up to access the library & although it at first looks small - they do have a good selection of new & current books on the shelves. Don't recall there being too extensive choice of dvd's or cd's.

This quiet library has a good collection of books, and all you need is a recent utility bill to…read morebecome a member. There is free, if a little slow, internet as well, although you are encouraged to limit your time if there are others waiting to use the computers. There are a couple of videos available for rent as well. The erratic opening hours mean that you won't be able to come here regularly, but it still is very convenient for those living nearby. There are signs up for a weekly book club, and there are also newspapers and periodicals available for browsing. The bright exterior and friendly staff make this library a pleasure to visit.

Great little library which has everything you need. Lots of new and old books, plenty of computers…read moreto use, a big children's section and lots of dvds and cds to borrow. They do a reward scheme where for every 5 books you take out you get a free dvd or cd which is a really great idea. The late nights on a Tuesday and Thursday are great too. Lovely staff and a big part of the community.

I have been an active member of Highgate Library since January 1991…read more And that was when, Margaret Thatcher was still the British Prime Minister. I only live around the corner from this Camden library branch, which is Holly Lodge. And even up to this day, I will always use the services at Highgate Library, for hiring out DVDs, PC printing and the photo copy machine. And I even reserve books and DVD from Highgate Library. Highgate Library is literally right next door to Highgate Cemetery, the place of Karl Marx's tomb.