The employees are often chatting loudly. Their movement is always slow and are not so organized when handling people. I usually need to wait. The study room can only be booked one time (2 hours) per day even though they are availble. It is stupid rule. The talbe is not that clean. I often see hairs on the table and need to clean every time. read more

This library has a pretty good selection, and really seems to keep up with technology. Their online search is pretty good, and you can put a hold on an item right from the site - which they'll set aside for you in a special section by the door. Unlike the other library in town, they do not charge for borrowing movies, and they usually have several new/brand new to DVD videos available every week. The checkout and return process are self-service computers, making it quick and easy to do both. Even better they'll email you your list of rentals and when they are due. The kids area has often has activities for kids, as well as coloring pages and book recommendations. The only negative is that there are often some shady looking characters hanging out near the entrance. However, they often seem to have a security guard nearby, just in case. read more

Keeps up with modern technology yet still inspires visitors to come in for paper books, etc. always friendly and helpful staff since I was a kid growing up in this area -and still are to this day! Great programs for local daycare classroom visits precovid) and provides good resources to local teachers! I've enjoyed taking my niece there for programs when she was little! read more

For me, I judge the Bloomington library against the Normal library. Between the two, I like the Bloomington library more. The first thing that is makes them worlds apart is the parking. More parking spaces. I don't feel like car is really close to the next vehicle. Any time I have been here, the only people being loud are the patrons. That's to be expected in a public place like this. At the Normal library, I'm always shocked how loud some of the employees will talk. The tables and chairs are a little dated but I've never had an issue finding seating. The outlets are old. I plugged in my phone charger but kept falling out. I had to move the table to hold it in. The staff has always been helpful and friendly. They have a large media area on the first floor. If I still lived near here I'd come here more often. Unfortunately, it's more convenient for me to use the Normal library. read more

I really enjoy this library. My son and I try to come every Saturday. Great books and great kid activities. We will continue to come back. read more

Bloomington Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Bloomington, Illinois

We are so lucky to have this wonderful library! Helpful & knowledgeable librarians, extensive catalog & online resources, free movie rentals & wonderful programs for all ages! read more

It's been over 5 years since my previous review, so figured it was time for an update. Especially because since that time, I've become much more acquainted with all the BPL provides for our community. There are nearly 300,000 items in the library's physical collection and well over 100,000 additional electronic items. You can now download three song per week for free (to keep), there are lots of magazines you can check-out and read electronically, and you can also download e-books to read on your e-reader. And if you don't know how to download them the staff will help you. Speaking of the staff, they're the best part of the Bloomington Public Library. They serve people from varied backgrounds with a multitude of needs and do a phenomenal job. The library is very well used. Anytime I'm walking in or out, there's someone walking in or out with me. It's constant traffic. But that's just a testament to the important role it plays in B-N. Surely much of this traffic comes from the 500+ programs that the library puts on for children, teens and adults annually. If you can't make it to the library, keep in mind that the library will come to you. The Bookmobile is stocked with material and makes regular stops around the city. If you live in the area, stop by the library and get yourself a card. read more

Best public library I've ever used. Granted, I worked in Children's there for four years, so maybe I'm a little biased. But the selection of everything is fantastic. Gotta love being able to check out DVDs and CDs for a week and not having to pay a rental fee! Plus, they always had lots of old films and foreign films, which I loved. I really miss this library. read more

I am currently studying for my Masters, and I was visiting from out of state and wanted to spend the day studying for a little bit. I called and was told that there were some quiet study areas. However this is a joke. There were kids running and making noise everywhere. You are not allowed to close the door to the so called reading room, which is dead smack in the middle of action. The staff at the Adult circulation desk were no better as they too were talking loud. The library is so small that I guess when you live here you truly appreciate it because you do not know any better. However when you are visiting a library you actually expect a library atmosphere and not a mini children's museum. Had i known, I would have just gone to Starbucks at least I know what to expect and I can drink a frappe while studying. Moral of this story is if you have little kids that you want to have a good time then this absolutely is the place for you, - free fun. If you are looking to truly study and focus then this place is not for you. read more

I really like this library. There is a very special librarian there named Renny who is awesome, helpful and friendly. Also dvd rentals are free. They have endless selection and a very large, clean, children's section with many books and games. The ONLY negative is that there can be loud seedy people occupying the computers in the Adult section sometimes. Despite this, the Normal library is like a roach motel compared to Bloomington's. If you're a Normal resident you can get your library card synced here and use it like your own! read more

Always impressed with the selection and the fact that you can order online and have it ready ahead. The staff is always friendly, helpful and try to be intuitive to your needs. Love this place! read more