BEXLEY'S library users will soon have their cards accepted in more than 180 branches across London.

Bexley and Bromley councils will become the 16th and 17th members of the London Libraries Consortium when they join in January next year.

This will give residents access to the stock in both boroughs with one library card as well as access to more than six million items from 180 library branches across London.

The new library management system is underway and is expected to be completed early next year.

Bexley's cabinet member for leisure, Councillor Don Massey, said: "I am delighted we have joined the consortium.

"It will provide notable benefits for our residents. It allows us to share best practice with other boroughs and should also lead to greater efficiency within the service."

Bexley and Bromley back office library services merged in January this year.