I don't think anyone is too old to use library facilities in peace and if people begin to think community facilities are not for them for these reasons then Lewisham have really failed in their inclusivity targets and need to act fast.
The fact remains that spoilt brat behaviour ruins the enjoyment of the library for all its users and it is not 'old fashioned' to want some peace, quiet and respect. Most of the kids in there are actually well behaved and keen to study and read- its just the usual few that disrupt things by throwing things around.

As I've said before, I was very concerned for the safety of my young child and other young children when I saw a bunch of boys throw skateboards and chairs around the same dedicated area for pre school children. This is a serious matter. I have to say that IMO the library management continue to be weak on this issue; I have had many conversations with the head honchos at Lewisham and there does not seem to be any will to address the problem.

I also do not understand how the same children seem to be in there time and time again despite their repeated bad behaviour. They need to be banned and to be reintated when they have entered into a ' contract' to behave. Their schools should be working on this with the library. If there was an electronic pass system then they could be effectively barred until an appropriate time in the future but there does need to some partnership working with other services. Surely given the overall concern about youth behaviour this is worth doing.

I still share everyones concerns and no longer visit the library outside school hours unless only to return books quickly.