Bexley Central Library

I love libraries. I really do. There’s something about the smell of old books that really gets me. They should make it into a candle. Hmm… there’s an idea.
Bexleyheath library, or Central Library, is the biggest library in the borough and after a refurb a few years ago, is pretty modern, light and airy. The borrowing system is simple enough and it has a great children’s section aimed at encouraging children to read.
I used to use this library when I was little and they had book clubs during the summer where you’d get a stamp for every book you read. At the end of the summer you’d get book tokens and a huge sense of achievement. It’s a shame they don’t do this anymore and the library isn’t as busy as it was which is a shame. The atmosphere can be a little off because of it and sometimes you don’t feel entirely comfortable, but it’s a nice library.
The location is good. Right opposite the Broadway Shopping Centre entrance, next to Thorntons café and up the road from several schools making it prime study space. I must admit I’ve got a bit of a thing for expanding my own book collection but when I’m hard up for money or want a recommendation, this is the place I turn to.

This is a very friendly library for kids, who will enjoy the fun activities available in the library especially during the school holidays, they can also have access to computers, which they will enjoy using. The book range is good, staff are helpful and kid friendly. The library is well lit and modern. Parking is available via Broadways parking areas, DO NOT try and park on the road as Traffic wardens appear as if by magic ticket you and disappear again!!. The location of library is VERY GOOD, the cinema is nearby as is a range of shopping facilities. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.

Central Library (or Bexleyheath Library as it is more commonly referred to) is the main library serving the Bexley Borough area. It is the biggest and has the most comprehensive collection of facilities. These include a large variety of books covering all genres to borrow. There are also extensive free to use IT facilities and internet access. It is an ideal place for school children or college students to study and work or for those without web access at home to log on and check emails.
I used the facilities recently to browse through the university prospectuses which were upstairs and sat in their quiet zone to help a friend select a course. The quiet zone was a good place to concentrate and the nature of the zone was well respected by all who used it.
DVDs and local history archives are other among the many other things on offer at Central Library which has become an important part of Bexleyheath life as activities such as reading groups, guest speakers and children’s activity sessions are offered. The DVD and CD hire is a good way of entertaining yourself on a budget as the rental costs are a significantly lower than those at places such as Blockbuster although the titles are not always as recent or as well stocked as rental shops.
The library can get busy at times and although I have never experienced it being cramped, you may have to occasionally wait for a member of staff if you need help. The staff are always cheerful and enthusiastic as well as helpful when it comes to locating items.
Getting to the library is easy as it is near the Broadway where almost every bus in Bexleyheath stops. Parking in The Mall or in local pay and displays are available too. Be cautious of parking wardens as they patrol the area regularly.