What a sweet little hidden gem of a public library! Dudley is a small South Buffalo area branch that is essentially one open room. Most of the book stacks wrap around the perimeter, with computers and other seating in the middle. The space is fairly snug, but hugely warm and inviting. The turquoise colored walls really add to the cheerful feel! The building is one-level accessible, and there is a good-sized parking lot along the side and around the back.
I stopped in with my husband to pick up a book I wanted that was only available at Dudley for which I did not want to wait on a hold transfer, (if you're not reading the "Mickey 7" series by local author Edward Ashton, you should!). The New Books rack was clearly marked, and it was easy to find what I was looking for within a minute.
We perused the library a bit longer, and it really is a well-cultivated collection for a smaller branch! Both my husband and I commented on how the sci-fi section was better stocked with quality classic and newer selections than some of the bigger branches we frequent.
After I checked out my materials, we sat down for a minute to get organized and realized we were in two comfy wing-back chairs at a chess table. We were in no rush, so we played a game in the splendid space. (My husband used to be a ranked chess player, so he was eventually victorious, but I didn't fold too fast, hahaha.)
I'm glad that through happenstance I ended up at the Dudley Branch Library. As a Northtown'er, it is definitely off the beaten path and out of the way for me. But I would gladly visit again if there is something here I can't wait for to be hold-delivered, and/or if we're in the area and I want a chess rematch with the hubbs. ;-) read more