Before heading to Koco Korean for the Yelp Elite event, I stopped here for some quiet time…read more Lately, I've run into libraries for reading before meeting up with fellow Yelpers. Being introverted, it gives me peace in being alone. Not to say I don't like being around people, but I'm sure others understand. Anyway, let's see how the visit went. The library for the most part was well kept. When you enter through the automatic doors, there are metal detectors in place and the front counter is on the right. Not all tables have plugs for those who need their devices charged, but I managed to find one on the 1st floor. There's a section for kids and also private areas that you can use for tutoring services. For the most part, I was comfortable. But in a separate area, there were a group of kids talking a bit loud. I believe they were of High School age. Growing up, I was taught to be quiet or talk a bit softly kn a library. But not them!! I was surprised none of the staff came by and told them to keep it down. Maybe I sound like an old man in a rocking chair (I'm only 45 years old), but still. Keep it quiet people!!! Other than brats causing ruckus, I felt fine. I don't mind coming back at all. But staff, please tell others to quiet down. Just saying.....

I have been visiting this library branch for decades - primarily because it is the closest library…read moreto where I grew up. Although this library may not have an extensive selection of material, I think most folks will be able to find something they like (or something close to what they will like). I'll say that the staff picks section of the library always has very interesting picks - especially for non-fiction. Fortunately, IMO, Va Beach does a good job with interlibrary loans. In my experience, I rarely would have to wait more than 4-5 business days to receive a notification that my reserved book was ready for pick up. For about 90% of my visits (over many decades), I have found the staff to be very helpful and professional. The library grounds are pretty clean, and the library has a very user-friendly layout. Also, the library provides plenty of parking. As one might expect, I do think anyone will have a problem finding parking to use a library. ;)

I arrived at Greenbrier Library just before heading to another location for a Yelp Experience…read moreevent. This was actually my 2nd time here but I forgot to check in for the last visit. Let's see how this visit went. The library is on the smaller side compared to most of the libraries I've been to in Hampton Roads. They have two floors with the top mostly with computer tables. There are a few private rooms available if you have a group or if you prefer alone time away from folks. The decor is neat of course and the vibe is pretty quiet. From the side entrance, you run into some artwork. I'm not sure if they're from local artists, but they're really nice to view. Only though I was here for short times, this library has been a good place to rest. The next time I'm in the area, it'll be a go-to for me :)

Super easy to sign up for a library account online. However, you don't get full access (physical…read moreitem borrowing privileges) until you visit a location to complete registration. The circulation desk staff was helpful, friendly, and knowledgeable. Account holders may check out up to 30 items at a time, with no late fees (lost and damaged fees do apply). Reserving titles online to pick up at a location is easy, and you can transfer books to a site of your choice for your convenience. You also get free access to Libby and Hoopla with your account, which are digital media library apps!

My online book search for books about The Knights Templar and books about Stephanie Plum, the…read morebounty hunter and books about Venice by Donna Leon.

It was interesting to visit a library that I didn't know existed. Of course I knew there was a…read moreGreat Neck Library, but the location is so off the beaten path you need a map. All joking aside, for this first timer the library is only a block off of First Court, but accessed off of Old Donation Parkway. Turn onto Bayne Dr. which takes you to not only the library, but also Lynnhaven Middle School. My son needed to pick up materials that were immediately available and happen to be at GN Library. Upon approaching the area I passed the backside of Lynnhaven Park which is completely detached from the basketball courts on First Court and has a newer playground, so look for an update to this park. The parking is long paved lot beside the building. The size appears to be adequate for it's patrons. The building is possibly one of the older one's in the VB Library system. The lot was clean and exterior area was free from debris. A shocker was a cool small park like area with picnic tables opposite side of the parking lot beside the library. I noticed when walking in that they have installed the new automated return system. When entering you will find a small check out counter up front. To the left a very large children's library that is carpeted walled off and has a door. This is nice for security of small wondering kids. There are activity tables a computer and small chairs. I entered to just look around a bit and found children playing more than reading and a lot of materials in need of being reshelved... so was not impressed. However, I found all of the other areas clean and neat. Adult Fiction were just beyond on the left. and right back the bulk of the collection Non-Fiction. Also audio books or on the right exterior wall. The middle area has tables to read, or study. The square footage is not overwhelming and it's obvious it's an older facility, possibly early 80's. However, they seemed to have the necessary materials to serve the GN area. The have a small computer area of around 8 cubicles. It probably services this area okay, but nothing exciting. Just across from the computers is the Reference and quiet study area. To the left exterior is a meeting/multi-purpose room. No sink, or kitchen in the room like newer facilities. If they have private study rooms I did not see them, but would be surprised if they did not have at least two some where. My son checked out his own materials with my supervision at a distance. He said the process went smooth and the staff person, a younger black woman was nice. He also needed help at one point in locating a book and received immediate assistance and said this staff person was friendly and helpful in finding what he needed. I am assuming that this this library is on the lower side of circulation, but could be wrong. They had patrons enjoying different types of materials, but for the HUGE GN area is was not overly busy for a weekday. Could it be that this location is just not thought of since it's not on a main road. I could not get overly excited here, but if your in the Great Neck corridor and this branch works best than go for it! I think you will find it meeting a lot of your needs.

Portsmouth Libraries have really cool perks that come with the library card. I visited Cradock…read moreBranch library today and staff was nice. They had lots of books and games. They have resources like Freegal for music. Parking was easy. Place was organized and pleasant for the patrons. This area of town is quiet and not too busy. The library was nice.

I love supporting local libraries, and this little, cute one is a favorite. They always have a…read moregreat selection of books, and the staff is nice and helpful. I also appreciate the programs they host like character visits, wildlife visits, and other activities for kids. Even when I try to resist (because I have plenty of books to read at home), I can't resist taking out my library card and leaving with checked out books.

Before attending a Yelp Elite event in the Ocean View area almost two weeks ago, I stopped here for…read morea bit after work to enjoy some quiet time reading. I have slacked off a bit so having a moment to catch up was truly needed. Let's see how it turned out. The library itself is well kept. From the areas I walked in, everything was clean and books were in place. When you enter, there are automatic sliding doors and metal detectors. In the desk area, they even have plugs if you want to charge your phone or laptop, which definitely came in handy for yours truly. I spent the next hour or so reading a book from home or checking out news on my phone. Quiet time well spent before hanging out with friends. Libraries are needed for peace and relaxation and this one provided both. The next time I'm in the area for another event, I'll be sure to stop here :)

There is a Cozy Mornings Book club on the last Tuesday of the month. It is a very nice library by…read morethe beach. I usually go there when I do not want to go to the Slover library in Downtown Norfolk.

Easy upgrade and update on the oceanfront library. Since my last review the library has been…read morerenovated and looks amazing! I had a book on hold that I picked up. The staff was efficient and took care of my transaction without a hitch. The library is now bright and attractive. The sections I saw were clean and organized. It was also nice to see quite a few patrons utilizing the library. It's been way overdue for me to update my previous review. I'm thrilled to see the oceanfront now have a beautiful renovation.

This small but resourceful library is located in the VIBE district of Virginia Beach. It has a…read morelarge children's collection of books. Lots of media like DVDs and CD audio. Also, the front area has a great resource area for social assistance. The library also has a good natural sunlight to brighten up the facility.

Its the library that I used to visit when I was growing up and attending Wilson High School. But I…read morevisit other libraries now. The reason for this is the internet. The internet is slow and there are only 9 computers, so if those are full, then the wait can be from 30 minutes to an hour for a computer. the book selection is adequate and the librarians are friendly and can assist you while looking for books and surfing the web.

There are three branches to the city of Suffolk's library system: the Morgan Memorial Library in…read morethe downtown area, the North Suffolk Library, and the Chuckatuck Branch Library. I had already visited the first two branches numerous times but had never quite made it to the Chuckatuck Branch. I decided it was time to remedy that and made my way there recently to check it out. The Chuckatuck Branch is small and located on the outskirts of town, which -combined with their limited hours- is why I hadn't managed a visit yet. As you near the library situated next to Saunders Supply Company, you spot the sign, which screams, "We have internet!" Only in rural towns will you find libraries needing to broadcast this fact. The "parking lot" is small and not marked but trust me when I say you won't have any trouble finding a spot. Upon entering, a librarian looked up to greet me. She explained that the library has been recently refurbished. A little history on the place: back in the 1920s, a group of women wanted to open a library for the community. They began working at it, but sadly, it failed. Their dream was realized in 1983 thanks in great part to Saunders Supply Company who donated the site and building where the current Chuckatuck Library stands. This was definitely a group effort and brought to fruition in order to serve the more rural part of Suffolk. I spent a few minutes walking around to see what they had to offer; it didn't take me long. They have all of the usual genres--just not a large selection. However, you can always request books through the online catalogue and they will be sent over from other locations. There were a few computers being utilized as well and a room towards the back that perhaps holds small events. The biggest surprise was the shopping carts that are also over at the North Suffolk branch; it was somewhat humorous to see them in such a small library. It's difficult to give a rating to a place such at this. While it is extremely small and underequipped compared to the other branches--who am I to judge its value to the community it serves? If you decide to check it out, I recommend also combining the trip with a visit to Lone Star Lakes Park just around the corner. Books to ignite the mind; nature to soothe the soul.

This is the smaller library of the Suffolk Library circuit but, it still has a lot of potential…read more The books available are on a smaller scale but, you can still request books and pick them up there and programs are offered at this location. This location still offers library events for kids, adults and families. There are programs available at various times and days. The staff is friendly and helpful. I have often seen my familiar staff from different locations at this spot. There is also a couple computers for use as well as a nice seating room in the back perfect for story time. The parking is small and limited. A busy program like the Eclipse viewing had me parking across the street at the store. Otherwise I have been able to park fairly close to the door.