Croydon Central Library, Croydon, London

I was at a loss when moving to Croydon. No money for retail therapy, no where to go on my days off-solution? Croydon Library. It was recommended by a friend and I have thoroughly enjoyed its services. The internet access has quadrupled in size since I started visiting, the buildings hours are good and the selection of novels etc. really vast. With cheap printing and photocopying I have been able to keep up with my correspondance and I had no need for extra cash for internet cafes or bookshops with cafes. I am sure that this place has kept me sane. Other people may disagree! One can enter in anonymity and leave the same way, with lots of books to fire your imagination.
Love it!

my absolute favourite library in the world. the smell alone warms my heart. in particular a fantastic childrens library which to the the best of my knowledge does a book club in the summer holidays. good general info services on 2nd floor too. and a massive dvd and cd loan out service.fully reccommend.

Croydon Library really sets the standard for public libraries. Located across three floors in Croydon Clocktower, with a separate children’s library on the ground floor, it really has something for everyone. In addition to the books, CDs and DVDs (which include films, instruction videos and recordings of opera and dance), the library also houses a local studies section with extensive records of Croydon’s history, as well as the tourist information office.

Internet access is free and there are lots of computers for public use; if you have your own laptop, you can also take it along and borrow a circuit-breaker to plug it in. Desk space can be at a premium, however - particularly at weekends and during school holidays. Overall, though, it’s an excellent resource and something I’m quite proud to have in Croydon.

Croydon Central library is a brilliant library with a wide selection of books, comics, magazines and even cds and movies which you can borrow. Its always has a nice atmosphere for you to read and the staff are always helpful. You can access free internet from this library as well and it only blocks websites unsuitable for young children so you can do mostly what you like on it. Fully recommended

Very large central library, with separate children’s library on the ground floor, always welcome. Escalators take you floor to floor, i recommend the arts books, a great selection. You can also get a lot of sheet music here, i was pleased to find Disney’s Castle in Spain for a drama project i was doing. There are a lot of desks and comfy chairs, and you can while away the hours reading the papers. Don’t hire out dvds though, much too expensive.

There’s something here for everyone. The children’s library is relaxing and comes complete with toys for the very young. Escalators and lifts help those less able to get to the other floors containing adult books. There is a cafe for those who want to warm up over a cup of coffee. If you just want to wander, there is plenty to see and lots of free travel guides and infomation that can help you to plan your next excursion.