Greenwich Council has extended opening hours in two libraries following a surge in public demand.

The newly refurbished Claude Ramsey is now open for an additional 15-and-a-half hours a week including Monday and Thursday mornings, and all day Tuesday. The Eltham Centre now offers an out-of-hours Library Express, open for 34 hours a week outside regular library opening hours.

Library Express offers access to bestsellers, quick pick collections, internet, and photocopying facilities.

The council’s libraries provide a variety of facilities for residents including a wide range of books, DVDs, free public access computers and Wi-Fi, alongside creative activities such as messy mornings and rhyme times for children, reading groups and ‘knit and natter’ sessions for adults.

The newly extended hours have already proved popular with local residents including students who now have more time to study in a library environment.

Councillor Peter Kotz, cabinet member for culture and creative industries said: “The Royal Borough understands the important role libraries play in our communities, offering much more than books and DVDs.

“While councils across the country have been closing libraries and reducing their provision, we are proud to be opening new facilities and extending our opening hours.”

Weekly opening hours for the two libraries are:

Claude Ramsey Library, Thamesmere Leisure Centre, Thamesmead, SE28 8DT

Mon 7am to 9.30pm

Tue 7am to 9.30pm

Wed 7am to 9.30pm

Thu 7am to 9.30pm

Fri 7am to 9.30pm

Sat 8am to 5pm

Sun 9am to 5pm 

Eltham Centre Library, Archery Road, Eltham, SE9 1HA

Mon 9am to 7pm

Tue 9am to 5.30pm

Wed 9am to 5.30pm

Thu 9am to 7pm

Fri 9am to 5.30pm

Sat 9am to 5pm

Sun 10am to 4pm

Library Express: 6.30am to 10pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 5pm Saturday & Sunday

For more information, visit better.org.uk/areas/greenwich