Stoke Newington Library will be closed for improvements from 9 – 17 May 2011.

The planned work is part of Hackney Council’s continued investment and improvement of its library service.

When Stoke Newington Library re-opens customers will be able to borrow books, DVDs and pay fines at the newly installed self service kiosks. This will free library staff to spend more time supporting the customers that want a little extra help. Staff will also have more time to manage books and other items, oversee events as well as making sure local information is up to date.

The interior will be changed slightly to reduce the counter size so that staff have more opportunity to interact with customers; new self service kiosks will be installed; and a teenage study area will be developed.

Stoke Newington Library is the sixth library to have these improvements, Woodberry Down will follow soon. The new Dalston C.L.R. James is being built using this model.

Hackney Council Cabinet Member for Community Services, Cllr Jonathan McShane said: “Hackney Council values its libraries and has made a commitment to continually work to improve the service. The self service kiosks will give customers choice and staff will be able to spend more time with people that want extra help and advice. While the work takes place customers can use other libraries across the borough.”

The council apologies for any inconvenience whilst these essential works take place. The nearest libraries are Stamford Hill and Clapton. For information on other libraries in Hackney go to www.hackney.gov.uk/cl-libraries.htm

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