Balham Library

Having joined the Balham library a few weeks ago, I already managed to accumulate charges for one book. The joining process was easy enough… and yes they have warned me of the charges. I just forgot. I know … I’m hopeless.
The library in itself offers a wide range of literature and DVDs and also has a bestseller lending scheme. The more popular books have only a 2 week lending time and cannot be renewed. It gives more people the option to borrow it, but it got me in trouble as I forgot to give it back on time. Next to the usual volunteers at the lending desks, they also have an automated borrow and return system … I guess it will come in handy in the few case you’re too embarrassed with your reading choices to go to the lending desk.
Balham library also offers free Wi-​Fi and you can book a computer to use the Internet. As many other libraries these days it also offers courses in many different topics and has reading groups and kids time.

The Balham library is located next to Waitrose on the High Street. Its situated on a number of floors. As you enter there is a good sized internet café section which also seems very busy. The ground floor has all the non-​fiction/​fiction/​reference books. The main desks are located here.
Upstairs are the DVD and music sections. I use this library for doing some studying in and although the desk section is not all that big it is in its own room which definately helps with noise. Other libraries have it out on the main section and it can be distracting. There are also plugs in the room if you are using a laptop.
The library is also on the Wandsworth council website so you can search what books etc they have from there.