More than £250,000 will be spent on installing self service kiosks and Wi-Fi in Barnet’s libraries.

Barnet Borough Council will pay for the new kiosks which will allow residents to borrow, renew and return books at the touch of a button.

The council says using machines will help free up staff to deal with more complex enquiries and to run events and activities.

Councillor Robert Rams, cabinet member for customer access and partnerships, said: “When I launched our library review we pledged to invest money in modern technology to ensure that our library service continues to be one of the best in London.

“Over the next few months we will see our library service brought into the 21st Century with the installation of self service kiosks.

“In some libraries we are spending up to £40,000 to enable us to do this, but residents will see the benefits for many years to come."

Work will be carried out at nine libraries across the borough including Hendon, Mill Hill, Osidge, Edgware, Church End, Grahame Park, Chipping Barnet, Childs Hill and East Barnet. 

Libraries already using the self service machines will have their machines updated while other libraries will be able to use the kiosks for the first time.

The libraries will be closed temporarily while the work is carried out over the coming months. To see a list of closing dates and times visit www.barnet.gov.uk/libraries