I am afraid of Libraries. I think it is something about the way the shelves can tower over you, all the books as-yet-unread so physically imposing, and then the hush of the reverential readers studying their chosen books.
I am happy to say that Stoke Newington Library is nothing like the library that haunts my nightmares. It is an open and friendly place, the shelves stop at eye height so you have no need to fear being crushed by them. The books are taken care of well and there is a large section of public computers available for adult learning courses or general use. The lack of wi-fi is an issue for some who want to bring their own devices to work from, however there are usually plenty of PCs to use. For the less mobile people the library does one of the best home literacy programmes in London.
The library also has the Gallery which is a great space for hire, suitable for stage productions, art shows and children's parties.Whilst it does currently feel the extremes of the season especially in summer when packed with people it will hopefully soon be done up to a slightly more comfortable space.
I'll let you in on a little secret or two about Stoke Newington Library.. firstly, one of the librarians (now officially titled "The World's Coolest Librarian") almost single-handedly invented Indy music and used to manage the Buzzcocks, I'll leave you to guess which one. Secondly, Stoke Newington Library as part of the London collective of Libraries has possibly the largest selection of large-print Mill's & Boon hardbacks anyone has ever seen. One of the myriad of back rooms (with the beautiful old-fashioned wall mounted shelves and mezzanine) is FILLED with them.
I have been, as you might have guessed, in the very privileged position to go into the Library's usually off limits areas and can attest to the beautiful back corridors with fittings from before the war. The vintage posters from the 80's in some of the more inaccessible bathrooms. The beauty of the entranceway is echoed throughout the building in both seen and unseen areas. read more