We recently moved to Lincoln Park, and since my wife is a big book lover, visiting the local…read morelibrary was high on our list. We stopped by on a cold winter evening (it was only 5 p.m., but you know how winter evenings feel). The first thing that caught my attention wasn't the books--but dinosaur footprints. Yes, dinosaurs! I later learned that during the construction of the interstate near I-80 in the 1960s, stone slabs containing dinosaur footprints were discovered. These footprints are believed to be around 180 million years old, wow, that's a lot! :) The library itself is a community-focused public library offering a good collection of books along with digital resources such as eBooks and audiobooks. They also provide computers, printing/fax services, and programs for all age groups. It's part of the Main Library Alliance, which means access to a much larger shared collection. The staff were very helpful--they helped my wife in creating her library card and patiently answered all her questions. There is a dedicated kids' section, which is well set up, and the overall dinosaur theme throughout the library makes it unique and engaging, especially for families. Overall, this is a small to medium-sized library with a strong community feel. A great place for readers, families, and anyone who enjoys learning something new

This library could be a productive space.. It is small, accessible and equipped with free wifi…read more However, I was appalled by how noisy the space was for a library. Not just the visitors but the staff was incredibly loud, speaking across the room to one another and other guests. I walked out knowing the business of not just the staff but a few of the visitors as well, and my uncompleted work. It was absolutely chaotic, not the environment of a library whatsoever. As an academic, I have spent many years going to libraries as a means to concentrate on a task. Im not sure i would return to this library again.

This library has several comfy chairs around the bookshelves and a multiple purpose room which…read morelooked like it was being used for studying. However, I agree with the other reviews. There was two older ladies sitting and talking loudly and there were kids coming into the library to the vending machines and being loud too. I sat by the bookshelves on the chairs and it wasn't really the place to study, maybe the multiple purpose room was quieter, but I didn't check that out.

Really pretty library, newly updated, with very nice people.read more

The renovated main library is the crown jewel of downtown Maplewood, though it's technically on the…read moreother side of the tracks from the town's commercial strip and abuts Memorial Park. Light and airy, the interior feels exceptionally fresh and welcoming, with a separate children's room down one end of the first floor. The conference rooms are available for reservations, and the teen area on the second floor is comfortable, spacious and bright. The staff is absolutely lovely, with folks offering to go above and beyond whenever anyone in my family has needed help.

The newly renovated library was well worth the wait! The outdoor spaces, community spaces and teen…read moreroom are three of my favorite areas. It is a welcomed addition to our community that will be utilized for many years to come!

Really love this library, I remember coming here when I was super young and bringing a bag with me…read moreso I could carry my 6 new books out easily. Is it clear I'm a nerd? I had to print a large amount of copies and the copy machine just looked at me like "hey you're screwed". I'm a hairdresser I had no idea how to use this life sized machine. Luckily one of the gals working was so so sweet, stopped everything she was doing and came over to help me! I was so grateful I could stop thanking her. Copies are ten cents there and I would've paid so much more because she was so helpful and sweet. They normally have a great selection of new books too, access to a nice amount of computers as well. The only drawback to this library is that it does not have its own parking lot. Depending on the time of the day it can be hard to find a spot because it's located right on the main avenue of the town. You can usually find a spot on the side streets. Overall it's a fantastic library, definitely recommend it if you need to get some work done or are just looking to get lost in a good book.

I'm currently in Grad school so I come to this library often when I need to get studying done. This…read moreis mainly because of convenience because it's much closer than my school library and I'm one of those people who need to leave my apartment to get work done efficiently. The library itself is very nice and has an amazing staff that are very helpful. However it has fewer amenities compared with other libraries. The few things they do offer is free wifi, computer access, as well as the obvious books/references. There are roughly 12-20 tables to sit and read. They also have a "security guard" that is usually present during all hours if you need someone to watch your stuff if you step out. Most places to sit have electrical outlets if you need to plug in a cellphone/laptop/tablet/etc. Overall this is a nice library and the only reason I gave it 3 stars is because it is SUPER NOISY, especially after kids get out of school!!! I can't stress this part enough!!!! Don't be surprised when people are answering cellphone calls, laughing, or carrying on full conversations as if they were at a sporting event. It's not your stereotypical...."Shhhhh be quiet and if you must speak wisper" -type of library. There are also private tutors that use this space to help adults and children with language lessons and after school tutoring, so there will be constant noise anytime after 12pm on schooldays. So make sure you bring headphones with music or earplugs if you are like me and need to drown out background noise. I also forgot to mention they a very small museum upstairs and a children's library that is located in the back and I've never really spent any time in either location to be honest. From what I've seen, the library has a pretty decent selection of books and constantly change their available displays for popular new reads.

Can't believe this is the 1st review! The library is housed in a very nice building with lots of…read morehistory & character. There are so many interesting aspects of this library that would've possibly gone unnoticed if Helen didn't provide the background details. It's cool to be able to see what the "old" wall looked like before the expansion and the oak staircase that leads upstairs with the various archways is pretty nifty too. Enjoyed the various decorations that are displayed in the differed areas. What a wonderful, friendly and helpful staff. Parking seems limited to the street.

For years my kids and I have been coming to this library for books, video rentals, movie events,…read morearts & crafts and using their computers. The staffs here are friendly and helpful. Just remember not to talk on your cell phone while inside the library.

Another main stay of South Orange. I've spent plenty of time here in all my years of learning. To…read morethis day it is well maintained, well ran and just welcoming for any literary information you need. The library takes part in the 'Rebl' program which allows you check out books etc. From another participating library. So if a book is out the librian will find out if another library a part of the program has it and have it held for you. The bottom floor has a very inviting children and young reader room full of things to check out and upstairs in the main library are everything else. Beyond books - editorials, magazines, newspapers and computers to use. What is great is the DVD wall. Hundreds of alphabetically ordered DVD movies are in the library ready to be checked out, so if Netflix and Redbox let you down for a movie a decade or so old you want to watch, you may find it here, for FREE! Just don't forget your library card.

The library is a fantastic resource for the community. In addition to the obvious books, music,…read moremovies, magazines, etc., they have so many programs for the community, especially kids. You need to check the monthly calendar to see what they have planned each week. The staff, as well as outside groups such as Seton Hall students, do story time several times throughout the week for various age groups. They bring in animal specialists, musical guests, and a host of other special activities. I've also asked the reference librarians for help going research on the history of the town and local community, and they were so helpful. They even contacted me when they uncovered some information days after I left. I am so impressed with their dedication, resourcefulness, and commitment to help patrons. Great Job South Orange Library!!

We love the children's librarians! Our grandchildren really enjoy Miss Caitlin…read moreand the STEAM program on Tuesdays. Lots of interactive games and educational toys. Thousands of books for all ages. Worth the visit to the second floor.

Small, quaint library. Pleasant elderly women usually behind the counters. Good place to study…read morewhen I'm back home visiting my family, and I need a peaceful place to bury my head studying. Not a large place by any means, but has what you need. Points for being open today (on a Saturday) with the snow coming down and a few inches on the ground. Dedication.