Libraries

With 76 locations across London and the Midlands, you can join a Better Library for free and discover thousands of books and online resources in your region. Plus, you’ll get access to regular activities, facilities, and more.

Whether you’re looking to read a new novel, find a quiet place to study, or connect with your local community, you can find it all at our libraries.

With our vast range of books and resources, regular activities, workspaces, and community support services, we’re here to help and inspire, whatever you need from your local library. From learning resources to kids clubs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At Better, we proudly cater to customers of all ages and requirements. From children and parents to students and seniors, our libraries are a warm and welcoming space for everyone. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get a free library card today and start accessing hundreds of resources, services, and facilities. Use our location finder to explore your local Better library.

Our locations

We have 76 libraries across London and the Midlands. Choose your local area to find your nearest library. 

Part of a charitable social enterprise

The Better Libraries group is part of GLL, a not-for-profit charitable social enterprise. GLL has the ethical responsibility as a social enterprise to reinvest any profits back into the services and communities they support. 

Because Better is part of a social enterprise, so are our customers. This means that when you join us as a library member and use our facilities, you can feel confident that you’re part of something bigger, helping to make a difference to others and directly contributing to our social mission.
Find out more

Catalogues and Collections

From online journals and audiobooks to non-fiction texts and ancestry services, our range of catalogues and collections are just waiting to be discovered. 

Workspaces and room hire

Browse workspaces for personal, academic, and professional use. From desk and booths to room hire,  find the best option for you.

Community support

Discover our community support services, including group advice sessions, careers support, and more.

Learning and research

Whether you’re looking for study materials or want to develop your skills in IT or languages, see how we can support you.

Browse all services and facilities

Find out more all these services and facilities like printers and free-to-use public computers at your local library.

Events and activities

We run regular events for everyone in our community, from babies and toddlers to older adults.

Regular activities

Whether you’re looking for child and teen activities, coffee mornings or adult reading groups, there’s always something going on at our libraries.

Special Events

From author talks to community meetings, we hold a range of special events for kids and adults alongside our regular activities.

Facilities for people with disabilities

Wheelchair ramps and lift access

Neurodiversity support

Spotlight On...

Looking for inspiration? Explore our featured services and activities at our libraries.

Room hire

Discover our bookable rooms and workspaces for personal or business use.
Book now

Book Clubs

Share your love of reading and bond with others in our fun and friendly book clubs.

Rhyme Time

Explore local Rhyme Time and Story Time sessions for young children and babies.

I can't help but sing praises for our local library! The welcoming atmosphere and dedicated staff make every visit a joy. From engaging craft groups to thought-provoking community events, our library truly stands as the heart of our community.

Michael Links
Library Member 
Our local library is a gem in our community! The commitment to accessibility is evident in the thoughtfully designed facilities and the library's services, whether it's expert research assistance or the latest in printing technology, consistently exceed expectations.

Amanda Breen
Library Member 

Join us

Become a library member

Browse thousands of books, online resources, research materials, and more
Discover a range of events and activities for adults and children
Enjoy free WiFi and computer access, plus printing and photocopying services  
Access library facilities and bookable spaces for meetings or private study
Join a library

Work for us

Discover library jobs for all levels of experience, from senior librarians to library assistants
Enjoy a range of benefits including pension schemes and training opportunities
Work as part of a charitable social enterprise that's passionate about giving back to the community
Enjoy employee benefits such as discounts at retailers via the GLL Extra scheme
Find out more