I was in Vegas for a long enough stay that I visited this library on more than one occasion. If I…read morecould bring it home as a souvenir I would!
The library was said to be smaller but they have so much to offer. I was there at a busy time one day and was able to get help and find a seat and enjoy my time there. I'd say this library is small but mighty. The weekends didn't have many patrons and was quiet.
The children's area is nice. There are many new well organized books and media for kids...and also they have toy lending, fun looking toys too, just when a child gets bored with a toy bring it back and swap for a new one. They have thoughtful details added in that area, like heat sensitive boards on the ends of bookshelves. I saw a little boy put his hand on it and his face lit up when he saw his colorful hand print, him and his mom practiced his name.
They have a separate homework room, so I saw kids in there doing homework and getting help with it. Where was this when I was a kid? Would have made school a lot easier as my parents worked late and weren't available to help me (and no internet even), speaking of internet, plenty of computers for people to use in this library. I had a tablet and was able to connect easily to their free wi-fi.
They have a tiny area where they sell discard or perhaps donated books. Best prices in town. I mean where else is a book 25 cents. It's small like a closet but that's ok, I don't think that's the big attraction here, but a nice bonus. On the days I was there they had an additional cart by the door with cds and holiday books (as it's December) for sale.
There was a large selection of magazines, i forgot about how many are published (more than the 6 you see at grocery stores) and about so many interests. I spent at least an hour reading different ones. Magazine are so expensive now and so I enjoyed reading for free.
The bathrooms were clean. I was a little worried as I was there when lots of teenagers were there, after school hours, but it is kept clean and well stocked. Speaking of the teenagers, it's right near a high school so expect after school to see them. It was actually nice to see the kids using the library.
They have a 3d printer, I've never seen one of those before. You have to take a class from them to use it. They have a VR set, so fun. There are quiet study rooms you can reserve use for up to two hours. They have a nice selection of puzzles. I'm sure there is so much more they offer.
The best part was the staff. So helpful!, they really seem to care and want to help. I heard one man exclaim "you don't know what this means to find this", and left with a big smile. When anyone asked for something from the librarian's, they didn't just point, they went over with the patron and showed them the area they were looking for and helped them find what they needed. If the library didn't have what a patron needed they would offer to look and get it sent over from other libraries (or is it library's, with an apostrophe? see I needed that homework help). The hold system seemed really good. I saw the staff show people how to use the online option's. Yes, I spent more time than the average person there but that's what I like, no casino for me, give me a book that's my excitement.
A favorite part of mine at this library was the staff recommendation shelf. I wish my library did this. I was not able to find anything that interested me, so I looked at there recommendations and now have a list of 5 (ok maybe 10) books I can't wait to read. When I talked to the librarian about one of the books, she just happened to be the one who recommended it, Rebecca! She was so helpful. I asked her about another author and well let's just say she has inspired me to read and read! I also observed her helping and inspiring many others on the few days I was there, actually all of the librarians. They are all gems! Such a great staff.