Subscription Libraries

While council-run libraries are experiencing a decline in users, those that require membership are seeing their numbers rise.

16:42 11 April 2016

As the Internet became increasingly popular, more and more council-run libraries are experiencing a decline in users, with many of them closing. However, those that require membership are seeing their numbers rise.

 

One of these subscription libraries is Bromley House, which is nestled on a high street and has been built more than 200 years ago.

 

Librarian Carol Barstow explains that Bromley House has always been an exclusive place.

 

"This type of library was always for the middle classes and to join - you had to buy a share,"

 

"People join because of the books, and because of the space we have. It's a place where you can be perfectly comfortable.

"It is a home from home."

 

Nygel Stevenson, 42-year-old businessman who joined five years ago and pays £96 for his annual subscription said: "I fell in love with the place,"

 

"I joined because of the building and the history and it feels like a personal service.

 

"What other library can you make yourself a coffee and read a book in a quiet corner? It's great.

 

"It's like my little escape."