This is a bit long- I'm only going my by initial impression, however based on future contact this review may (or may not) change.
We recently brought a home in Bay Shore. And after receiving a newsletter in the mail from the local library decided to go and get a library card. I called and asked what was needed and was told a utility bill or proof of address (I haven't changed over my DL) as of yet. I drove over and went in. The front desk person was an older woman who did not seem pleased to see me there. I explained my reason for coming and tried to make polite conversation to no avail (which is honestly no biggie, but adds to the overall atmosphere).
Now I brought the last printed utility bill I had before I set up our auto pay for our bills. I was told that the bill was too old (??) and that she wasn't sure that "this was the library I was supposed too be at anyway" (???!), I remained calm and polite while she looked up my address and confirmed that this was indeed "my library" (yes she said this in a tone that is as pompous as it sounds).
She then asked me if I had a rent receipt, I explained to her that we own our home but the house is in my husbands name so I'm not certain the deed would be helpful in this case.
I had an online credit card statement that I showed her.
She again asked for my RENT receipt. I told her we own, I said I could show my car insurance card she said (for a third time) that I can use ....a rent receipt
Now, (FWIW)We moved here for my husbands work, the good school district, the reasonably priced homes and the diversity which was unique to LI. I am small, Black, middle aged, middle class, married, Mom...so I don't know if I'm some sort anomaly or what but she sure seemed to think so. Unfortunately it's a narrow lens that I've had the misfortune of being subject to before, fortunately I don't feel, even a slight urge to prove myself to anyone.
So after some conferring with someone in another room, she agreed to accept my proof of address on my cc statement and gave me my library card.
Now as I said previously, my review may change if this was a one off experience. We will definitely be back because my children love libraries and that location seems to have some very interesting programs/ activities.
We will see how it goes. read more