[1] The library bears the name of Southwark clergyman John Harvard (1607–1638), who emigrated to Massachusetts and bequeathed most of his estate, including hundreds of books, to the college now known as Harvard University.

Library membership is open to members of the public, regardless of whether they live in Southwark.

In addition to offering many programs and services for both adults and children, the library hosts discussion groups and free computer classes.

Its collection includes books, audiobooks, CDs, DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and PlayStation 3 games.

[3] In early 2010, John Harvard Library added radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to its entire collection of more than 30,000 circulating materials, giving patrons the option of checking items out themselves without consulting the circulation desk.