Libraries in Wandsworth are amongst the most popular in the country, according to recent figures.

Statistics from the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA) show the borough’s libraries issued the highest number of books in London for the third year running.

Before the pandemic, from April 2019 to March 2020, a total of 1,383,740 books were lent. Of these, 719,416 were children’s books.

Local libraries issued 4,197 books per 1,000 residents, the second highest figure in London and the fourth in England.

To reflect the importance and value of reading services, the Council has pledged to improve libraries in Battersea, Earlsfield, Tooting and York Gardens.

The Northcote Library also faces a major revamp, as well as regeneration schemes to Wandsworth Town library and Roehampton libraries.

Cllr Steffi Sutters, the culture spokesman, said:

“These are excellent figures and show just what an important public service our libraries offer.

“A huge part of that success is because we have worked hard to not only keep our libraries network intact, but also because we are investing significant sums in delivering bigger and better modern libraries.

“This investment and commitment has been happening at a time when many other London boroughs are closing their libraries, whilst here in Wandsworth we are investing in new ones.

“I’m especially pleased to see the high number of children’s books borrowed. We know that young people who regularly read do better in school, so making sure they have access to a neighbourhood library where they can read, do their homework, borrow books and access computers helps give them a better chance of getting on in life.”