Local public libraries have been a lifesaver for me during the high summer weather. Yes, even in UP…read moreMichigan it gets hot. If it's sunny and over 80, it's too hot to work from the van so I've been spending time in public libraries like this one. This library is free, it's comfortable and it's clean. They have a free wifi that works very well and it's quiet enough that I can sneak in an occasional Zoom meeting without disturbing anyone. Free parking, too! You do not need to be a local resident to use the library, you only need to be a local resident if you're borrowing materials. [Review 17915 overall - 322 in Michigan - 1436 of 2022.]

Beautiful library!! Love that the original building still looks classic, while there are obvious…read moreupdates inside (computers, etc.). LOVED the Michigan Reference section upstairs, and thought it was cool that they still use some really old tables and chairs in the nonfiction section! We thought that the bell collection is cool. Beautifully maintained inside; clean restrooms; quiet place to read with great views of Lake Superior upstairs. Reasons I only gave this a 4 star is that not a single staff member greeted us or asked if we needed help. I get that this is a touristy area and they're probably used to people just wandering through, or using the bathrooms, but I always appreciate being welcomed. I myself am a librarian and understand the value of welcoming the community in!

There's a lot to see and do at the library! Super friendly librarians can help you find anything…read moreyou need, great old building to explore and its strong relationships with local organizations - I could easily spend the day here every day! From Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishpeming_Carnegie_Public_Library): The Ishpeming Carnegie Public Library, located at 317 Main Street in Ishpeming, Michigan, is the second oldest Carnegie Library in the Upper Peninsula. It was authorized in 1901 and opened in 1904. It was listed as a Michigan State Historic Site on January 18, 1980.

While on vacation in the UP for a week, we took the kids to this library on 4 separate occasions…read morewhile we were in Iron River for shopping or lunch/ice cream. It's a pretty cozy library that reminds me of the old Chicago branch libraries. Right as you come in, there's the kids section with an abundant selection of books. There's also a well-worn truck/train table and a separate, carpeted story room and play area with some plush animals and dollhouses. The kids also have a decent selection of jigsaw puzzles and games to choose from. They too are well-worn in many cases. I also saw some nice books for older kids, written by local authors, featuring history of the copper mining in the 1800s and living in the frontier days on the Upper Peninsula. We enjoyed going there, even though we're not locals or members. It could use a bit of a refreshing look, but the library does have plenty of computers and audio books in adjoining rooms. One comment I have to make: where are all the kids from Iron River? In our 4 visits, seemed there was only one time where my kids got to meet someone from town. I can tell you in Park Ridge or around Chicago, the library would've been packed on a weekday afternoon. Makes me wonder about whether parents take their kids to the library often out here in the UP, or do they prefer ORV riding on dirt roads and fishing all summer long...

This is by far the best small town library you could ever look to visit. The staff are warm, kind,…read moreand ever so patient. They have by far the best childrens programs available, from infants to teens they always have SOMETHING going on. Whether you're a resident using the local library and a daily resource or a tourist looking to get out of the weather for a spell. It's a great place.