Croydon's central library is the UK's third most popular library.

New figures show that Croydon had 1,168,160 visitors in 2010-11, up from 1,036,872 in 2009-10.

Norfolk and Norwich Millennium Library, which had 1,496,186 visitors, topped the poll.

The library on Katharine Street is already Greater London’s most visited library, according to the latest UK library survey issued by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA).

Jon Graham, managing director of CIPFA said: "Croydon’s achievement proves that modern libraries are still popular community institutions, offering services and support beyond book lending.

"The increase in volunteers also shows how libraries continue to be seen as much valued hubs for their communities."