Stoke Newington Library

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.

This is a real bastion of the old Stoke Newington, amazing war memorial in the lobby and suitably laid back staff inside. very easy to join and ncie selction of cds for rental.

It had been quite a few years since I’d used this library, but I discovered the free public access to the internet when my laptop broke recently. I wish I could say it had been a pleasant experience, but sadly it wasn’t.
The older members of staff seem to be on some kind of power trip and take every opportunity to patronise and condescend. Surprisingly, it was the younger, less pretentious staff members who were most helpful.
The first time I went, I asked to book a pc and the woman stared at me imperiously over the top of her spectacles and held out her hand like I was just supposed to know what she wanted without speaking!
Anyway, I was then sent to another desk to register for a new library card. This was the easy bit! Luckily I had a bill on me so I could prove my address and I got the card immediately.
I won’t go into details about subsequent visits, but another staff member was very patronising. I’m so glad my lappy is mended now and I don’t have to go back. A very useful resource nonetheless.

This Library is free to join, and stacks a large collection of both DVDs and VHS. They even occasionally sell some VHS tapes for 50p, and I’ve slowly built a mini collection from here. Its great because its totally free to take out both books and movies!
There is no Wifi, but there are public terminals to access internet with a time limit. These get really busy on the weekend. You might catch another network in the area on your laptop. Its a great place to read or to study, I used to come here to write essays. Its conveniently located and I would go for breaks to one of the many cafes across the street for a caffeine boost!

I was first drawn to the building, which was built in 1892. The entranceway is impressive: it’s a memorial hall, commemorating those who have died in war. I got a couple of pictures, but not enough to show it really. Inside is not so nice. Just as grand, it’s a great barn of a building, and somewhat grey and dingy.
This doesn’t stop it buzzing with life. It’s a largish library, and it took me a while to find the SF section. Actually 2 sections of shelves and a nice selection, so they win points there. There’s also a large study area, including many computers, and a huge children’s section. The children’s section was full and noisy when I visited. I think they were about to start story time, and some of the kids were getting a bit fractious.
Very much a living and used library, and the entranceway is a must see if you are into war memorials.