Hundreds Flock to New Library


More than 1,600 people visited the new Wandsworth Town Library on its first day

The library is the first in the borough to make full use of innovative self-service terminals. The user-friendly technology enables customers to issue and return books independently and manage their own accounts.

Other modern features include computer suite with free Internet access and free wi-fi is available throughout the entire building.

On the opening day alone more than 100 people signed up as new members. The £1.5million redevelopment of the building was funded by Wandsworth Council.


Cllr Sarah McDermott, executive member for environment and leisure said the open day turnout was extraordinary:
“Residents of all ages have been streaming through the doors with a real sense of excitement. It’s a clear indication how much our community values the facilities on offer here.

“Families have been impressed with the dedicated children’s facilities and we’ve been inundated with compliments about the look and feel building. The glazed wall is particularly popular; it really floods the rooms with light and creates a bright and inviting atmosphere.

“We expect this building to become one of the busiest libraries in the borough and a real asset to the residents of Wandsworth town centre.”

 

Compliments from members of the public include:

“The new library is really great, spacious and relaxing. The new technology gives in an edge over libraries I’ve been to.”

“Brilliant! At last you’ve opened. This is the perfect place, and building, for this service. Well done.”

The library is stocked with a range of new fiction and non-fiction for adults and children, books in community languages, DVDs, talking books, newspapers and magazines.

For young people there is a children’s library on the ground floor with story times for under-fives, baby rhyme time, homework help and holiday activities.

A separate area for teenagers is on the first floor.

Library opening hours are as follows:

Monday closed
Tuesday 9.30am - 7pm
Wednesday 9.30am - 7pm
Thursday 9.30am - 7pm
Friday 9.30am - 5pm
Saturday 9.30am - 5pm
Sunday 1pm - 5pm

Tooting Library, Mitcham Road is currently undergoing a council-funded £3.5 million redevelopment which is due to complete in February 2010.

September 1, 2009

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