Barking Learning Centre (Barking Library)

A great community hub offering the usual books, DVDs and selection of daily papers and local weekly papers to read. There is plenty of space for private study with most desks having ports to link your laptops up to the internet. The library has an excellent children's area with books for all ages of their learning cycle. They also put on lots of events for children most notably during school holidays that include educational and crafting type events. The library also offers the ability to pay all your council Bill's via the machines situated on the ground floor which is helpful as they close well after normal office hours during most of the working week. A small art gallery within the Learning Centre is a welcome addition and often holds shows for local artists.

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Never solved problem

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The downsides - Firstly, it can be very noisy for a library. Staff do not intervene unless someone goes really crazy. So, take headphones or earphones with you. Secondly, it's not exactly overstocked with books. Thirdly, it can get quite soporific. Maybe not enough ventilation. That said, it's a pretty relaxed, clean environment, plenty of desks, computers and power points for electric devices. Eating of cold food is permitted. Staff are generally helpful. Opening hours are pretty generous too. No need to be a member to enter either. Overall, if you know what to expect it's a good facility, but you will be disappointed if you expect a traditional silent library with a large range of books.

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Gets loud in the afternoon.. Otherwise, well equipped with lots of classes and decent study areas

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The librarians are rude, probably thinks every brown person is illiterate immigrants. Asking them for help is like a crime. The atmosphere is very muggy and there's hardly any ventilation. The collection of books will make you depressed. The noise level would be better suitable for a drinking party rather than a place where you can concentrate and read. Oh they got a spa! Magnificent! (Sarcasm)

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