This gorgeous library is a converted mansion that sits atop a hill on Saint Charles Avenue - if that wasn't all you needed to be convinced. I've only been a member for a short while, but in my experience the Latter Library staff is exceptionally friendly, the space is quiet and well-maintained, the wifi is reliable, and the book selection is great - everything from new releases to cookbooks, audiobooks, and books about New Orleans history and culture. On the lower floor, the original mansion rooms are largely unconverted and left true-to-style - you can sit and read on antique upholstered chairs at large oak tables, or walk about and admire the chandeliers and ceiling frescos. On the upper floor, however, are all your modern amenities - more organized shelving, help desk, clean bathrooms, computer lab, etc. In this way, Latter Library strikes a balance between being contemporarily functional in the community and being a historical relic in the neighborhood. Would recommend popping by and checking it out! read more

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Great little library magazines, downstairs adult fiction and non-fiction upstairs great air air-condition study rooms. They got a seed library where we can check out three packs of seeds every day it's smaller than the main library of course and there's another uptown library that's a little larger, but it's bigger than the Avar library that's near my house. I recommend visiting each branch and checking out what they have you can also get ebooks thru Libby app. read more

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Lived here my entire life but for some reason never went to this library. So finally decided to check it out yesterday. Such a unique library that fits NOLA. Beautiful library that used to be a residential home. Nice interior with mahogany staircase, a children's section, a small computer area, and some tables and chairs throughout. Not a big selection of books to choose from but it is still a nice library to enjoy some reading. Wish they had chairs on the porch to relax, read, and watch the streetcar go by. read more

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When I lived in New Orleans it is a great library and they have awesome book sales Great place read more

A peaceful, complete and helpful library. Located in a Grand Ole Mansion on St. Charles Avenue. The librarians are curious and helpful. I'I've attended public meetings here and the staff was patient and accommodating. Private coves for study and contemplation. I enjoy being able to walk here, but it is along the St. Charles streetcar line. read more

Pandemic update: Thank goodness for e-resources from the public library over the last eleventy-bajillion months of this pandemic. And I was super grateful that they actually added in curbside pickup. I thought I would update since it had been 11 years since I last reviewed this space. One of the great things about this location being a former mansion (donated in 1948 to commemorate Milton Latter who was killed during WWII) is the porch. The porch allows for distanced pickup and drop off while the Library is only open via appointment. The staff of all the public libraries in the city is doing a great job during the pandemic; this branch just happens to be mine. For more information on the mansion: http://nopl.s3.amazonaws.com/files/LatterLibraryHistory_2016-10-03-21-05-10.pdf read more

As I was walking down this part of St Charles, I was wondering how nice the mansions must look inside. Then I stepped into the library and my question was answered. It looks like a house that used to belong to a lord. They have a small, but relevant selection of titles. Everything from Drew Brees' autobiography to a cosplay sewing book felt like they would be a useful read to someone who lives in 21st century NOLA. read more

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Here is an excerpt about the profound impact the Milton H. Latter Memorial Library had on my life from my forthcoming Cazenave Eyes: Memories of Racism and Racism Studies memoir. There was, however, a much quieter desegregation initiative that helped pave the way for what Dillard had to offer me. I discovered that noblesse-oblige project of Southern grand dames many decades later as a middle-age University of Connecticut sociology professor. It happened while I was back in my hometown of New Orleans interviewing a wealthy European-American woman who in the 1960s had been active in fighting Louisiana's punitive public assistance laws, which were in large part intended to punish African Americans seeking to dismantle Jim Crow. As we talked and watched members of her family swim in her pool she informed me that she and a group of similarly disposed and inclined women had quietly worked behind the scenes to integrate a library, not far from there among the stately mansions of St. Charles Avenue. Upon hearing those words I had an epiphany of how profoundly their actions had impacted my life; for I was one of the first "Negro" children to discover that wonderful secret as I somehow found my way to that beautiful Milton H. Latter Memorial Library. That lovely-renovated mansion happened to be walking distance from my home on Valence Street. I went there every two weeks to check out library books; usually biographies of scientists like George Washington Carver and politicians like John Quincy Adams. For the first time in my life I was in a learning environment in which I felt I truly belonged. During my many visits there, the librarians did a strange thing. They expressed neither resentment at my being there nor overzealous hyper-welcoming racial paternalism. I was treated like an ordinary patron who was where I belonged, in a beautiful library in search of wonderfully-inspiring books to read. Growing up I was a child with no real talent. I was bad at sports, woeful at music, couldn't dance a lick, and unlike my uncles, had no skills that involved working with my hands. However, with the help of those compassionate ladies and that lovely library I was able to establish my first positive identity, one which significantly boosted my self-esteem and confidence. As I sat or laid down on my grandparent's porch on Cadiz Street reading every day I became known as a "reader" to all the neighbors who stopped to talk as they passed by. Noel A. Cazenave Professor of Sociology University of Connecticut cazenave@uconn.edu read more

This little library is beautiful. It has a cozy feel with lots of natural light. The sun room in particular is such a treat to do some work with big windows and plants. There was a good selection of books and cozy chairs to read them in. What more can you ask for in a library? read more

Beautiful library with many great book selections. They are happy to order a book you want, from the inter library loan system. Clerks are professional and always pleasant and helpful. read more

This is the library my mom took my brother and me to to learn to read and where she got books to read to us prior to our being able! It was donated to the city after Milton Latter, a young man, was killed in World War II. It was the home of a 1920s movie star, and is an exquisite old-school New Orleans home of the Victorian style with Neo-classical touches. It is not a giant repository of books, but whatever they don't have, they'll get for you, including interlibrary loans, through the main branch downtown. They have charming rooms to sit in, giant old library tables, places to plug your devices and computers to browse the internet on if you have none of your own. The librarians are invariably helpful and friendly. A wonderful place to bring young kids, there are two rooms to take them to. And there is a solarium that is now used for one lucky individual who seeks a place to sun and write or read. There's a newspaper/magazine room also. It feels like the home that I'm sure it once was. Though, as one librarian said, being that it was once a house, it is chopped up and doesn't flow like a modern library. But this is what gives the place its charm. There are corners you can sit in and no one will pass you by. Carrels are situated in dead ends that give you privacy. It's delightful. Don't forget to give money for the upkeep of the home. This is not financed by the city. And go to the Saturday book sales and spend money. Every dollar counts. read more

This is the prettiest public library I have ever visited. If I lived in town, I would be there all the time.

Surely one of the most aesthetically pleasing libraries I've ever been in. It was built as a mansion, and looks like one. Presently, it is smallish for a library with only a few places to sit and work and a modest selection of items. Their wifi, even though it admonished me for logging in as a visitor and warned my speed would be slower, was quite effective. All the amenities were well maintained. Driving and parking there is not hard at all. It could use more chairs and desks and such, but it is a nice place to work. read more

Located to many restaurants and the trolley. It's two story and beautiful. We were here for the Murder Mystery event. Too bad its a long ride from where I live. read more

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library - Libraries Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

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This branch just opened after a remodel all summer (to my knowledge). The grounds and outside look fantastic. I was never inside prior to the remodel, so I'm just commenting how it looks now. The front has a bike rack, and there is a big porch, but I didn't see any benches or chairs. When you walk in there are 2 sitting rooms to read in, and some newspapers also. They have ceiling paintings with beautiful chandeliers, and couch and chairs. Old fashioned parlor feel. Love that. There is a front desk where I got my Orleans Parish library card from Michael, a very friendly and helpful guy who told me some stuff about the library system. There is a side room also for reading, using a laptop, writing, whatever...a few long tables and comfortable chairs. Went up to 2nd floor via an old wood staircase that just impressed me. The staircase, not the 2nd floor. Upstairs has some book cases, and DVD and CD'S and books. Not really alot here, but it's a small branch. Computer room, some more chairs. Overall, it's a cool place to read. You can get things here, but not a huge selection. They DO take book donations, and sell books, so there's that. But, it IS a beautiful property. read more

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This building is way across town from my home, so I don't properly utilize the actual library facility, and so, I can't honestly review the library aspect. What I do love about this building is the architecture! I love to take friends on a city tour and while showing off all of the big beautiful buildings on St. Charles Ave, I pull over here and let them see what one of the more grand homes on the Avenue looks like on the inside. I'm sure the library is great too. read more

If you enjoy the Live Oaks, historic estates, and restaurants along breathtaking St. Charles Ave, there is a great spot that you may have missed, that I would encourage locals and travelers alike to explore, part of the New Orleans Public Library, the Milton H. Latter Memorial Library branch. The Latter is a gorgeous building that just when through and lengthy and expensive remodel, there are a few tables and chairs setup on the massive front porch a fantastic spot to post up in the shade to study or read. The grounds are equally aesthetic, sprawling verdant lawns dotted with 100 plus year old Live Oaks. Inside the library you will find a huge collection of books, children, teen, fiction and nonfiction. Also and sometimes overlooked, audiobooks, music CDs, DVDs. Not everything is on Netflix if you can't find it online try the Latter. Also the library branch delivers to other branches within the New Orleans Public Library system, so if this branch doesn't have the item you are looking for try another branch and request it, it will be at this branch for pickup within a couple of days. read more

Milton H. Latter Memorial Library - Not on Netflix? Check your local library, huge selection in Uptown New Orleans. - Libraries Near Me - New Orleans, Louisiana

Absolutely beautiful public library found in uptown. Very old fashion looking and fits the area very well. Library is pretty quiet and has a good variety of books. Only negative is that I wish they had more individual desks. Also the AC is always blasting so bring a sweater because its freezing in there. read more

This is what you call love at first site. I was riding along the St Charles streetcar line when I first noticed this place. I must admit by first glance it looked a bit intimidating, but I figured hey what's the worse that could happen if I go and take a little peak. As I passed in front of the building on Saturday I noticed that they were having a book sale in their store located towards the back on the right side of the building. When i tell you I felt like a kid in a candy store I couldn't be more honest. They had books (great books) on sale for 50 cents $1 and some a little more. By the time I finished browsing I found myself at the register with 11 books and that's not even the best part. When the very sweet and kind lady checked me out she told me that my total was $15.50!!! Now where in the world can you get a great deal like that. Great Service & Great Products at a Great Price all I can say is what a bargain!! I am looking forward to making this place a must stop when I am looking for some new reading material (the old fashion way). If you're in the city stop by and show them some love and they take tips too :). FYI the books are quality gently used books. They're a great spot to drop off those books that you want to give away in hopes that they end up in a good home. Go check them out for yourself and let me know what you think :) Holla!!! read more

I love this place so much. It is such a beautiful and romantic building, I cannot get enough of it. I think it was a mansion that some guy built for his wife who was an opera singer or something, but thats not important. The book selection is by no means enormous, but if they dont have the book you want they can usually locate it at another branch. They have a good dvd selection but make sure you return those suckers are returned on time. Its a 7 day rental and $1 per day late fee. (I learned this the hard way). You can use the computers in the lab for 30 minutes at a time. There are really lovely sitting rooms throughout the library where you can relax and read as well as an expansive lawn with lots of shady spots when it gets too hot The library often holds book sales where you can come away with some real treasures for $.50 a piece. Currently it is beautifully decorated for Christmas, go check it out. read more

One of my fondest childhood memories is the trips to Latter Library on St. Charles in Uptown, New Orleans. Whether riding my bike or walking, I always left with more books than I could handle! I would loose myself in the books and in the house itself, definitely like stepping back in time to an era I would have loved to live in. If my dad was picking my up from the library, I would sit outside on the sprawling porch and pretend it was my house and I was waiting for my dad to get home from work, Or walk in the yard, under those trees and just pretend again it was my personal park, while listening for the sounds of the St. Charles streetcar zipping by. My friends and I would scare each other about the ghosts that had to hang around in the library, each of us claiming every time we went, that we "saw" or "heard" something. The winding staircase to the upstairs sections is my favorite. I always take my time and walk slowly on that staircase, imagining all the people that have walked there before me. As a child of course, the children's sections is one of the best, with many selections for kids who are just beginning to read, or researching for a science fair project. The sitting rooms at the very front allow you to sit, read, relax, and again loose yourself in the elegance of the house itself. I would not get much reading done, often drifting in and out of my antebellum fantasies. Having this library in my childhood probably solidified my eternal love for reading, writing, and history. It was always a first choice for my special treat for the day. Yes, I was the kid who loved going to the library. I have taken my older children there years ago, but not living in New Orleans at that time, they did not get to appreciate it the way I did. I made my first trip back yesterday with my 4 yr old twin girls and they loved it. I could see their eyes swimming in the seas of books in the Children's sections and the fact they had their own place to sit, and chill just about blew their minds. Best thing about the New Orleans Library System is they offer FREE library cards to members of surrounding parishes as well, including, St. Tammany, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines. Last I checked, Jefferson Parish charged outside residents a $50.00 fee for one. So the fact that Orleans offers a free access card to neighboring parishes should definitely be celebrated. This is a longer post than I would normally write, but our community deserves to have a place like this and it is up to us to help maintain, preserve, and share the wonderful culture that surrounds this city. Also, there is a drive going on now to help re-stock New Orleans Recovery Schools and there personal libraries since the losses suffered in Hurricane Katrina and I am proudly standing behind that cause. Go to: http://www.dosomething.org/epic-book-drive for more information on how to help with that. I believe the drive ends on May 15th, so please check it out if you can help support the New Orleans Recovery Schools Libraries! read more

I'm a huge fan of public libraries. They're great for the community and add so much value to a neighborhood. This branch recently went through a renovation, as I've been told, and it's beautiful inside and out. They have a small selection of curated books, but their inter-library loan program is super efficient. Give them a day or two and they'll have the book you are looking for ready for pick up. They have fun little nooks and crannies to curl up in. I've come now a dozen times to study. If you are a New Orleans visitor, join as a member and get access to fast WiFi. They even have WiFi available for guests. It's not a huge library by any means. Space is limited, but make friends with a stranger and share a table with someone. The downstairs looks straight out of a Period Film and the librarians are very friendly and helpful. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the Carriage House behind the library opens up for book sales. I've already spent a small fortune on books already! read more

The second floor of this library is small, neat, and has the standard printer/copier, catalog search, and public computers (with the usual cast of people binging Candy Crush copy-cat games, job searchers, and news readers). The first floor of this library is a magical movie-set 20s deco experience. Bask in the solarium, sit at a long wood table, walk carefully (or stomp) on the polished wood floor, cozy up in a refined armchair... There is a guinea pig habitat in the front room and they are pretty adorable. Unknown if you can check them out. The selection is not large but it's painlessly easy to request a book from any of the branches to pickup in a day or two. I really like that the librarians are sitting at ground level, because I'm always bringing books in overdue and I wouldn't want to be glared down upon over a pair of wire glasses... read more

The library of libraries consuming a city block, facing the streetcar line, and a true landmark that once was the Latter family home (I think). It's a gorgeous piece of architecture that is showing some wear, however its interior has so many original details and frankly hasn't been boogered up or bastardized. As a service their hours are spaced out nicely, the staff is always friendly, there's the internet, they have what used to be periodic (but I think are now weekly) book sales, constantly updated periodicals, regular storytime hours, AND they have a DVD collection that is constantly updated w/newer and rare titles. Regarding the latter (no pun intended), recently they liquidated their VHS offerings and have gone gung ho on replacing those titles. You can check out 3 DVDs over a week and renew by phone or the internet, but if you are late the fine is $2 per day per DVD. Lastly, because of its architectural significance movies are shot there every so often, so when you go, they may not be open to the public, but they always alert the patrons when services are planned to be interupted. Some of 'All the King's Men' was done here. read more

This is probably the nicest looking library in the entire New Orleans Public library system. The book selection isn't the largest but they do often have book sales in the carriage house behind the main building. There sadly doesn't seem to be much of the original house interior left but those rooms that still have the original features intact are impressive. This is certainly an interesting place to investigate and great place to find some awesome deals on some very interesting books during their sales. read more

What happened to libraries being quiet places of study and reading? The docents slam books in metal carts (just put low pile carpet in the cart to quiet the process, jeez!) and shelves for 45 minutes at a time, children shrieking and banging up the stairs... and not one shush. Not to mention creepy old men that hack all over the keyboards and chew their nails as they check out i-don't-know-what on the computers. Get me out of here! One younger staffer was very pleasant, while it became quite painful to have to listen to the know-it-all tone of another, as she spoke to a guest and an employee, which turned out, had no idea what she was talking about. So unnecessary. Had to give three stars because I love the quaintness of the old building and the location. read more

It's a FREE SERVICE! You don't pay for anything! Unsure of how anyone leaves this place a bad review.

Full disclosure: I work in library-land. I am not a public librarian, but I do think about libraries a lot. Latter Library has a lot of great things going for it - excellent location, nice visible perch, pretty exterior. That said, a lot of the drawbacks about the NOPL system in general are evident inside the branch, mainly in terms of collections and building maintenance. Staff: Mostly great with some snarly bad apples. Luckily I haven't seen some of the snarlies in a long time, so either they've been phased out or I've had the good fortune to avoid them for ages. Collections: *Magazines: This is an NOPL criticism, not a Latter one, but it really annoys me to no end that you can't check out magazines. In my hometown library system, you could do this with all the non-current magazines, and it saved me a ton of money on magazine subscriptions. There is a "take 1 leave 1" magazine box where I leave a ton of my now-subscried to and read old magazines, but sadly there's not much I like to pick up (maybe when I retire and take up golfing that will change) *Adult Fiction: Weird selection. I can find some classic authors, and not others. Seems like many of the old copies of old titles are rarely replaced, so the only new copies are of new releases. This is probably an NOPL thing. *Adult Non-fiction: I swear I cannot figure out why certain things go on the new releases shelf for AGES and yet sometimes I find new things on the regular shelves. Travel and cookbook sections are pretty decent for a small library *Music and media: I've gotten CDs and DVDs from here in the past. No complaints. *Children's area: I don't have any kiddos in my life right now, so I have no opinions on this, but the room looks super fun Building Interior: *Bathroom: There's only one that I can find. I don't think this is enough. *General upkeep: Oh, so sad. The floor in front of the front desk is totally unfinished, and it's not a great impression when you walk in. In the past, Latter has had major HVAC problems and has had to close during the summer before, hopefully this won't happen again. The stairs going up have worn carpeting being held down by duct tape. I've heard that Latter has the highest circulation numbers of any NOPL location. I really think it's a bummer that NOPL has not made more visible changes to improve Latter. To be fair, libraries in general are (scandalously) under-funded and major targets in a highly political atmosphere for cuts, so this is probably very easy for me to demand, and very difficult for NOPL to actually do. Other: *Meeting room: Great. I have been to many meetings in this room, and I love the old-timey wood paneling. I also dig that little windowed room off to the side, seems like a wonderful place to study. *Wifi: It's functional. If you don't have a library account, using it as a guest is pretty easy. *Programming: I haven't participated in much of the library's programming, but it seems like they have some great things to offer. *GUINEA PIGS: They are adorable. Nuff said. read more

Studied here on numerous occasions. Staff is knowledgeable and helpful. It's a quiet place to study and you can use the public printer for 15 cents a page. read more

Beautiful building on the outside. Quite rundown on the inside. Needed a place to work. There were no traditional reading rooms with desk lamps but there were a couple of parlors. One had nice plush chairs with large wooden tables and plantation shutters. Not too dark for work and you have a view of the streetcars rumbling past. Free wifi a big plus. Restrooms were nice and clean. read more

This is a beautiful library! The librarians were helpful. The restrooms were clean, but very scary looking ( the one that I went into). We were driving around when we were visiting New Orleans and we stopped by because the building was just that beautiful. I really can't capture how majestic the library was, so I guess you will just have to stop by and see for yourself. read more

If you are a student of any kind in the uptown area, you should know about this place! Milton Latter makes my top places to study in New Orleans. Keep in mind, this beautiful building is limited in space , seating areas, and even books but what makes this library my most sought out destination when it comes to studying is the decent wifi, friendliness of staff, and peace and quiet of library space! read more

I grew up with this library and consider myself extremely lucky. It has made me who I am. It opened my eyes to the world. I spent a lot of time reading during my childhood because I had a wonderful place to read, a magical place. Latter Memorial was once a home and it welcomed you and embraced you like any good home should. This elegant mansion was built in 1907.As you approached it coming down St. Charles Avenue it sat atop a raised berm on lovely landscaped grounds surrounded by majestic old oak trees covering a city block, a grand old lady beckoning you to come and visit. Inside you were surrounded by the grandeur of days gone by. Ceiling frescoes from France, Dutch murals painted by a local artist, massive mahogany tables, crystal chandeliers, big comfy period style chairs in velvet and leather perfect to curl up in with a stack of books at your side,a quaint old fashioned marble bathroom tucked in under a spiral staircase, large windows graced by lilacs and gentle breezes, grounds exquisitely landscaped with mature flower beds and fragrant blossoming bushes, a pond with ducks accessible through the children's room, a place to romp and play, spread out a blanket. It was history, architecture, a familial setting celebrating knowledge and learning. Who could not be seduced to spend their time there? read more

My son was looking for a specific book on the Cold War and Sub-Saharan Africa for a school project, and I thought it was going to be quite an ordeal to find. I spoke with Amanda who was hugely helpful, very knowledgeable, and so courteous...I was beside myself as I'm not used to such incredible customer service on any level, much less a public library! Kudos to her and to the people who manage this library. Latter Library may not carry a lot of titles, but they can get what you need within a few days, and just going into this beautiful old building alone is a treat. read more

not the best or widest selection of books and DVDs but it is better than nothing......what is pretty awesome is their bi-weekly used book sale from 10a-2p on Wednesdays and Saturdays. read more