It's a blog about libraries, why not start off to the tune of Julie Andrews' and "These Are A Few of My Favorite Things," I bet when they weren't singing the Von Trapps liked to read too.
So you're wondering. What makes a good library? Which library is my favorite and why? The answer is not as cut and dry as you think. Some libraries have lots of computers and some only have a few. Some have a great selection of books on tape that I can listen to in my car, and some have upgraded to the 21st century with only CD and MP3 options. Some libraries are huge behemoth places where you can slip in undetected and avoid talking to anyone until it's time to check out. Others are a cozy community space where you'll be asked to join other patrons for tea and treats, and enjoy the chatter of the weekly knitting group while you read. Some libraries have large tables or quiet study rooms perfect for group projects, and others have comfortable arm chairs to curl up in and read an entire novel without ever checking it out.
But for now, here is a basic list. Five of my favorite libraries in Western Massachusetts:
(1) Chicopee Public Library
A new modern building, with all the charm of yesteryear's libraries. This library has ample parking, a decent number of computers, a decent fiction collection and an excellent magazine selection.
(2) East Longmeadow Public Library
A thoroughly modern building, located in delicious proximity to Starbucks. This library has a good fiction collection, a large children's room and helpful children's staff for young readers and educators alike and a selection of free books and magazines in the vestibule that I'm always sure to check out. I am also a fan of the comfortable arm chairs and peaceful water feature that make this library an enjoyable place to read.
(3) Hampden Public Library
This library is as tiny as you'd expect in a town of 5,100. The small collection and limited hours is made up for with a friendly staff. With separate areas for pre-readers, elementary students and teens a large portion of the library's space is dedicate to it's children's books, and despite the small size of the library and its collection it is sometimes easier to find books here than at a larger library (perhaps everyone just forgot this library was here, but I didn't! And I am a fan).
(4) Palmer Public Library
I have to give some kudos to my local town library. It was the place of many Brownie meetings and countless times picking out books as a child, and I have to say even objectively it is a good place. The renovations which were completed within the last decade more than doubled the facility. Moderate collections in ficton and non-fiction alike, this is good well-rounded library.
(5) Gaylord Memorial Library
This privately-run library almost blends in with its Mt. Holyoke College surroundings, but serves as a general library for people from the town of S. Hadley and surrounding, though it is no longer run by the town. This library is perhaps as tiny as Hampden's, but the friendly staff and patrons, the invitation to their free weekly tea and the dedication of the knitting group who was preparing items to sell at a craft fair in order to support operations made this library a nice place to visit. Staff and patrons alike took genuine interest in one another. This library is as much about community as it is about anything else. And I love that.
So. What do you think makes a great library?
