I love a good library. Okay, I am lying. I love a great library. The Matawan Aberdeen Public Library (MAPL) is one of my favorite libraries. It houses many reference books and magazines that are physical and via electronic resources. There are plenty of places to work and study. It should be noted they do not have a quiet room, however. They have many of the most current and popular magazines.They offer interlibrary loans (ILL) on DVDs, books, and audio books. For those who don't know what ILL means, MAPL can obtain it from another library outside of their system to fill our requests. This library also carries the very latest titles, Oprah's and Reese Witherspoon's choices for book clubs, latest nonfiction, manga, and children's books. If they do not carry it, I simply fill out a card and they will consider purchasing it. They have not just DVDs but Blu-rays and Playaway(™) audios . The latter is vital for me because of my long commutes.
This library also has a warm and caring staff. How many times have I frequented this library and everyone I have seen returning or checking out materials, the staff always have light and fun conversations with the patrons. They get to know you and welcome you with smiles and laughter. Several circulation staff are also exceptionally knowledgeable in their books. They are quick with some suggested titles. If you have any questions, the reference librarians are always try their best to answer your queries. Sometimes you just have to wait a tad bit because they can be tied up doing something. If that is the case, just let the circulation staff or the tech guy know and they will find a librarian for you.
They offer a barrage of programs for both children and adults. If you want to learn how to knit, chair tai chi, join a book club, play mahjong, storytime, learn about coding, make slime, they've got you covered.
With all that is wonderful, why only four stars then? While it is wonderful the staff loves to make you feel welcomed, sometimes there is a line that forms and sometimes you are in a hurry. While I personally don't have a problem with waiting, I have seen some disgruntled patrons. Once they are up and being serviced, the smiles are quickly found again. read more