Bland new library in Union, NJ. We had some small library around area, but now we have big library…read morein the center of town, next to city hall. There is big parking in the back. Small one in front. Library is in new building shared with art theatre. Nice welcome addition to Union, NJ just opened in 6/2025.

I've been looking forward to the opening of our new library for over a year, and unfortunately, my…read morefirst visit was disappointing. I really wanted to love this space and make it a regular stop for my kids and me, but our experience left me feeling unwelcome. When I arrived, I wasn't greeted at all. The staff at the front desk were engaged in a personal conversation and didn't acknowledge me for several minutes, even though I was standing in line clearly waiting for assistance... I had a few questions and just needed some direction, but felt overlooked and ignored from the moment I walked in. Later during our visit, we were in the soft foam children's reading area. I removed my Crocs so I could sit comfortably on the foam blocks and read with my toddlers, assuming that shoes weren't meant to be worn in that particular area on the mats to keep it clean and safe for kids. A staff member by the name of Emily Head of youth services) asked me quite abruptly to put my shoes back on. I politely explained that we were sitting in the foam block area and that's why my shoes were off, but she responded with , "Well, that's very unsavory," and laughed. (Not in a friendly way) in front of others. It was embarrassing and completely unnecessary, especially since we weren't causing any disruption and were quietly reading together. After that exchange, I no longer felt comfortable in the space and decided to leave. We had walked 30 minutes in the heat to get there, excited to enjoy the new facility, but instead left feeling disappointed and dismissed. I truly hope the library staff can work on being more welcoming, especially to families and caregivers who just want a safe and calm space for their children to enjoy books. First impressions matters and unfortunately, this one missed the mark.

Books are like drugs and this library's a great dealer! With an excellent children's section that…read moreboasts a puppet theater, Lego stations, board games, educational computer games, and live shows and activities, my kids enjoy a couple hours here every visit and can't wait to come back. For all ages, they have books, ebooks, DVDs ($1 rental), game clubs, craft and learning workshops, and Rosetta Stone for 31 languages for free (off of their website https://www.sfplnj.org/). The staff's super helpful and accessible in person (during non-covid times) and via phone (973-376-4930) and email (questions@sfplnj.org). With so much offered for free or nearly free, I just can't get enough! NOTES/TIPS: **During covid times, they provide curbside contactless pick-up of books you request. They also offer a "Pick Five" service where you tell a librarian via email or phone a couple of books or authors you fancy, then they'll put together a package of 5 similar books you might also enjoy. **Returned books remain in quarantine for 1 week before they can be borrowed again. **This library's part of a book lending system called "Libraries of Middlesex" where you can hold and borrow books from 31 other libraries in Union and Middlesex Counties. **Wheelchair-accessible, gender-neutral restrooms. **Free wi-fi 24/7 even outside the building where there are benches.

Another main stay of South Orange. I've spent plenty of time here in all my years of learning. To…read morethis day it is well maintained, well ran and just welcoming for any literary information you need. The library takes part in the 'Rebl' program which allows you check out books etc. From another participating library. So if a book is out the librian will find out if another library a part of the program has it and have it held for you. The bottom floor has a very inviting children and young reader room full of things to check out and upstairs in the main library are everything else. Beyond books - editorials, magazines, newspapers and computers to use. What is great is the DVD wall. Hundreds of alphabetically ordered DVD movies are in the library ready to be checked out, so if Netflix and Redbox let you down for a movie a decade or so old you want to watch, you may find it here, for FREE! Just don't forget your library card.

The library is a fantastic resource for the community. In addition to the obvious books, music,…read moremovies, magazines, etc., they have so many programs for the community, especially kids. You need to check the monthly calendar to see what they have planned each week. The staff, as well as outside groups such as Seton Hall students, do story time several times throughout the week for various age groups. They bring in animal specialists, musical guests, and a host of other special activities. I've also asked the reference librarians for help going research on the history of the town and local community, and they were so helpful. They even contacted me when they uncovered some information days after I left. I am so impressed with their dedication, resourcefulness, and commitment to help patrons. Great Job South Orange Library!!

The newly renovated library was well worth the wait! The outdoor spaces, community spaces and teen…read moreroom are three of my favorite areas. It is a welcomed addition to our community that will be utilized for many years to come!

The new Maplewood Memorial Library main branch is an absolute stunner of a building with gorgeous…read morespaces for browsing, reading, doing homework, meeting with your book club or community organization and more. The events they are putting on are wonderful and geared to so many different people and groups within Maplewood and the event spaces are gorgeous. There truly is a space for everyone and an event for everyone. It is such a wonderful community space for the town and the way the redesign has incorporated the park next door is truly inspiring. Every time I have gone since the reopening I've found it bustling with energy while still having that library-escape feel. If you haven't visited it yet, do yourself a favor and go!

A quality public library is a treasure for any community, and a visit to the Maplewood Memorial…read moreLibrary -- Hilton Branch perfectly exemplifies what a vital resource it is for local residents. Banks of computers, free wi-fi, an up-to-date selection of novels, job-seeking resources, a teen room, a multipurpose room and a separately staffed children's library with a wonderful selection of tomes for young (and future) readers make this library an essential resource for a broad swath of people. A helpful staff, access to dozens of libraries throughout Essex and Hudson counties and a convenient location (and near the lovely Maplecrest Park, to boot!) make this the perfect place to spend an afternoon -- or several -- to broaden one's horizons. I only wish it were open seven days a week!

The staff is nitpicking me and my student. Others are talking loud in the main area, but a few of…read morethem keep coming into the smaller room we are in while I am tutoring. It's a very uncomfortable place. I would not recommend this place.

Magnificent building and heritage. The Newark Public Library, built of brick and faced with Indiana…read morelimestone, was dedicated on March 14, 1901. It has served the public brilliantly ever since, providing an impressive range of books and services, despite its small size and limited funding. Its employees are kind and attentive. We especially enjoyed the room dedicated to Philip Roth, one of Newark's most famous former residents, who has written compellingly on his upbringing. Library membership is open to those who work in Newark as well as it residents.

Across from Washington Park, the Newark Public Library is housed in a beautiful building. You'll…read morefind some interesting art work and statues inside, in addition to books and media. If you are into graphic novels, the library has a decent selection, too. The library sponsors various kinds of events for patrons and the community. I've gone to one of the library events in Centennial Hall featuring the Arts High School Jazz Ensemble and it was really cool. Lastly, along with Newark residents, people who work in the city can get a library card. In short, NPL is a wonderful library with a noteworthy vision and mission. Its employees and volunteers work to enrich the lives of people in the community. I'm a fan of the Newark Public Library and recommend you visit it at least once if you are in the area.

I love this library and they're dedicated staff. They do great programs and are very helpful in…read morereference. Right now they are having a prom gown & tux collection to benefit students in need. Kudos to them! It's not easy to be a librarian in an urban public library, but they rock it.

I live the next town over & am Job Hunting. Elizabeth Public Library opens earlier than most in the…read morearea and I'm able to use the computers to access and check on important emails. Although busy the Librarians are personable, Friendly & helpful. The areas are clean and parking is ample. When I get back on track financially, I plan on making donations to Libraries especially because of the interactions I've had with Staff.

This community library on Osborne Terrace serves the Weequahic neighborhood in the West Ward of the…read moreCity of Newark. It's near Newark Beth Israel Hospital off of Lyons Ave. The building has a brick façade with white trimmings; it's very pretty from the street. While the library preserved its historic exterior, the inside of the library was renovated in the early 90s with computers, an elevator, air conditioning, and a story-pit for children. There is parking both on the street and in a private lot. Like the other NPL branches, it serves the needs of the immediate community and provides library resources for adults and children. There are collections of books and multimedia available to patrons. Community patrons can also use computers for Internet browsing, word processing, and accessing NPL electronic resources. A distinguishing highlight of this branch is its emphasis on African-American materials. Newark Public Library is a wonderful library. Its branches are essential in supporting the NPL's noteworthy vision and mission. For that, I give the branches 4-stars for the work that its employees and volunteers do to enrich the lives of the people in the community.

Small library with basic needs. You have to sign a list to use the computers and 15¢ to print. No…read moreWiFi printing from your laptop. Limited parking in the back. Closed on Mondays.

Clean, quiet and nicely stocked. The library is just under the Millburn train tracks from Essex &…read moreLackawanna. There's a beautiful art exhibition in the front, an orchid and plant garden by the spiral staircase and plenty of seating. Especially if you need to wait for a train. I was surprised and entertained by a glass box full of surprise poetry. I read a few and they were lovely. The paper flowers above the poetry display were very creative.

Airy , high ceilings , bright lighting , strong WI-FI & lots of outlets…read more.. separate rooms for teens after school & small children Mini art gallery at the front foyer The largest dvd/Blu-ray collection I've seen at a library yet , so cancel that streaming service Steps away from the mill burn hip strip if you're feeling for a quick bite or coffee