My kids and I have been visiting the Lyons Library (they also frequent Riverside library but only are vocally disrespectful at Lyons because they are buddies with the director) for about two years. There's a particular group of nannies that often gather there, and I've noticed some behavior that feels unkind and exclusive. Today, one of the nannies used a slur to describe my child to another nanny, right in front of the children. I decided to approach the director about it, as I believe it's important to address these situations. Unfortunately, this isn't the first time I've experienced issues; there have been instances where nannies have allowed their kids to hit my children or take things from them, and my attempts to speak to them directly haven't been very effective. When I spoke to Dan, he mentioned that he doesn't see this as a problem and suggested that since these nannies have been coming for longer, I should consider going elsewhere. Even when I tried to express that Mr. Rogers or Daniel Tiger would be disappointed by such behavior, he didn't seem to recognize the reference. It seems like a gentle reminder about kindness and compassion could really make a difference. It's important to remember that children are innocent and impressionable. If the adults around them display unkind behavior, the children may mimic that. Segregation and exclusion in a place like the library can deeply affect kids, especially those who may already feel different or marginalized. When certain groups are treated as outsiders, it can create feelings of isolation and inadequacy. Children are very perceptive; they notice social cues and the dynamics at play. When they see some groups being favored while others are overlooked, it sends a message that they aren't valued. The library is meant to be a safe space for learning and exploration, and it's so important that all children feel included and accepted. I have a degree in Early Childhood Education, have been a caregiver for over 10 years, and run a nonprofit that teaches inclusivity and kindness in children. As a mother, I feel deeply for my kids when they are hurt, and I simply want to ask everyone to be mindful of their words and actions. A little kindness can go a long way in creating a welcoming environment for all. read more

I swear this isn't a library, it's a daycare center. Most of the floor is cleared for toddlers running around screaming: the library is for everyone, so what ever happened to keeping it down while in the library? Adults standing around not telling them to be quiet, including parents and employees. I even saw the manager just standing there. No renewals possible on the DVDs I checked out, of I had realized that at the time I wouldn't have checked them out. read more

nice and quite library, very different from a few years ago. lots of new space and nice play area.

This is the worst public library I have been. I lived in Lyons for years and poor service was constant. They know this and they do not care. I wonder how much the staff will earn per hour? I'm sure it's not a low salary. read more

The staff is HORRIBLE. I have experienced really awful service, with the youth services and circulation departments in particular. They are absolutely no help, flat out reject help to any patron of the Metro system that isn't from Lyons, and even when you are a patron of Lyons, its not much better. I have spoken to a Lyons patron who said she asked if there was some where she could plug her laptop charger because she was working on a big project and was low on battery. They said no, so, though feeling unwelcome, she stayed and just planned to work until her battery eventually died. They watched her like a hawk, then decided she was probably going to sneak somewhere and plug it in, so they told her to LEAVE. When she was just sitting there. Working. Really???? read more

This library is something alright. The biggest complaint from me are the librarians. They are pretty egotistical. One of the librarians gave me a very long stare. How rude! Its mostly a decent library. read more

Worst library ever. The staff is so loud, what ever happened to being quiet at the library?! Everyone who works there is LOUD and very egotistical. They want their opinions to be heard by everyone, which includes many complaints about their work emails. Front desk service is helpful with copier and scanning. Unless you have ear plugs, don't expect to get much done at this place. Plus, one full time staffer can routinely be found taking cigarette breaks outside. How do I know? She announces very loudly and proudly every time. Ew. read more

This is a bad library that didn't seem to have an actual adult or librarian the night I went to check out this towns library. It is small and could be upgraded in so many ways. read more

Went here for a holiday program. The program was very nice. The library had many activities for kids going on that day. Santa paid a visit and people were getting their pictures taken with Santa. Kids were putting ornaments on the tree and doing Christmas crafts. Very lively and friendly library. read more

The staff is wonderful! I feel like it is my second home. Seems like they are working on upgrading the library in various ways. I love it there! With technology the way it is, libraries seem to be fading. It is great to see that this library is starting to go with the flow and upgrade where they can. The staff is very helpful as well. read more

Lyons Public Library - Covergirls perform - Libraries Near Me - Lyons, Illinois

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I lived in Lyons from 2000 Until 2012 and was a constant patron of the Lyons library. I was considering moving back to Lyons but now afte reading the reviews I'm not sure now. I can't believe the reviews of the staff I read. Im in shock and disbelief of what was said. The staff there was always professional and completely helpful to every patron who went into the Library. The staff had very little turnover and it wasn't that often that they hired someone new maybe every 2 or 3 years a new employee would appear. When I moved from Lyons they increased the staff and hired a new director. Everyone was always very polite and nice. I would spend hours some days sitting and reading and was never bothered and it was always quiet like a library is supposed to be. If the situation is that intolerable then may I suggest that everyone go to the local city government and let them know because the public library should not be a hostile place especially for children. read more

I am a college student and I am actually doing college online here at the library! I have had a wonderful experience here. The director and administrator are really nice people and they are great with kids. The librarians are kind and helpful. They offer you assistance promptly. They do a great job in keeping the library quiet. The staff also does a great job in keeping everything nice and clean. I have had an enjoyable time studying here. read more

Down right paranoid! My wife goes in to get a book or two for the kids,for their school reading program.The staff knows her there;because she brings the kids in twice a week.She is in the childrens book section & one of the staff tells her ,she cannot look at the childrens books ,without a child present. Incredulous ;my wife says ",I just needs a book or two for the reading program & you know me here".The staffer sez ,"you need to have a library employee with you ,so she like OK then,lets look together then.The library is devoid of patrons,& yet the staffer is very impatient ,with her,THEN,the manager comes over & starts chastising her in a loud voice. My wife ;who is soft spoken ,to a fault ,asks the manager ,to please talk to her in a professional manner . The library manager walks away while muttering something under her breath. Truly a bizarre experience. You get the feeling the staff would prefer to work in a funeral home,or something. read more