Different types of libraries

We know Barnet residents value the Library Service, that’s why, following extensive consultation with residents, we're keeping all 14 library sites open as well as retaining the home and mobile and digital library services.

The 14 libraries are divided into 3 categories of libraries that offer different services:

  • Core
  • Core Plus
  • Partnership

Core libraries 

There are six Core libraries:

  1. East Finchley
  2. Golders Green
  3. Hendon
  4. North Finchley
  5. Osidge
  6. Burnt Oak*

*Burnt Oak Library will have slightly different Self-Service Opening arrangements. 

A Core library has:

  • books in highest demand
  • some space for study
  • homework support
  • range of targeted activities
  • limited staffed opening hours
  • Self-service Opening
  • community space for hire

Core Plus library

There are four Core Plus libraries:

  1. Chipping Barnet
  2. Church End
  3. Edgware
  4. Colindale

A Core Plus library has:

  • an extensive range of books and loan items
  • study space for all ages
  • wide range of reading, learning, and cultural events
  • greatest number of staffed opening hours
  • Self-Service Opening
  • community space for hire

Partnership libraries

There are four Partnership libraries:

  1. Childs Hill
  2. East Barnet
  3. Mill Hill
  4. South Friern   

The four Partnership libraries are managed by community-led organisations with support from the council. These are:

  •          Childs Hill Library - Kisharon
  •          Mill Hill Library - NW7 Hub
  •          East Barnet Library - Inclusion Barnet
  •          South Friern Library - Inclusion Barnet

Kisharon, Mencap, and Inclusion Barnet all have significant experience in service delivery in the voluntary sector, which bring valuable insights to the delivery of the Library Service.  NW7 Hub is a recently incorporated charity that has significant reach and commitment from the local Mill Hill community.

Partnership libraries remain part of the Barnet library network, meaning you'll be able use your current library membership card to borrow, return or reserve items, as well as use the computers and WiFi.

These libraries are required to offer a Core library service for a minimum of 15 hours per week. The partner organisation work with the community to judge and ensure that they offer the right mix of activities for their local area.

The Partnership libraries offer:

  • learning resources and reading materials for loan and reference
  • minimum of 15 opening hours each week
  • literacy schemes and reading events for children and adults

Is a Partnership library the same as Friern Barnet and Hampstead Garden Suburb Community libraries?

No. Unlike the two Community libraries in Hampstead Garden Suburb and Friern Barnet, the Partnership libraries remain part of the Barnet library network. Customers are still able to use their library card to borrow, renew, and reserve books as well as use public PCs and WiFi. The Partnership libraries receive some financial and operational support from the council and work according to a defined service level agreement.

Will there be Self-Service Opening at Partnership libraries?

No, this technology will not be available at Partnership libraries.

Will I need a new card to use a Partnership library?

No, you will not need a new library membership card to use the Partnership libraries.