Central and Unser Library

I was super pumped when they started building this library, as I live within a 15 minute walk from the place. Being a commuter, it’s yet another warm building to wait in while the crazy Burque bus system decides when it wants to show up… (a review for another day ;)) But yes, the architecture is beautiful, the place is very friendly and welcoming, the bathrooms are nice… there is a bright colorful tower that lights up at night and goes hand in hand with the neon Rt 66 sign nearby.
I didn’t think there was such a need for a library in this area but it’s pretty poppin’ most days I go in. The computers are the biggest hit of course. There’s a timed system for how long you can be on and boy does it drive me crazy when it starts shutting you out before you’ve got something saved… but to be fair, there are always reminders, I’m just a slacker. I understand why the system is in place. Especially at places that all computers are used at all times. This library isn’t overfilled, but just populated enough that I think they’ll keep it around :P
One thing I don’t care for are the Sunday hours… but that’s a bone to pick with all of the libraries, not specific to this one. In ABQ it’s by far the best library I’ve been to. There are many different rooms, all open with big windows, gorgeous view to be seen at times, eco-​friendly, and all around a happy welcoming place for a nice read or a dire internet search. If you find yourself in my neck of the woods, check out our local lib!

On 11−4−15, Jessica the librarian smugly informed me that she would not be able to look up the items placed on hold online, since my name was not on the card. I recently moved here from Cali and have been to this location several times whereas the more friendly librarians understood and have seen the kids and I with their grandfather (whose name is on the card) check out not only museum passes, but reading kits. I have never had an issue! On this particular day Jessica needed an ID to look up items on hold I had requested online. Ok. what happened to just needing a card?! so she said well since you do not have ID, I can show you how to look on the computer with the library card #. WHAT? so basically I have to do her job of looking up the account for books on hold?! What’s the point of taxpayers money to pay this smarky diva?! than she innocently (so fake) suggests a supervisor. Where she goes to the back room forever and of course, has not only one «supervisor» but another older redheaded woman sneering at me without even talking to me! What ever happened to customer service?! what if YOUR librarian is lazy. The supervisor informs me curtly, I can get my own card with the meanest mug ever, mind you I am holding a toddler, and my 2 kids are watching. Not once asking me a thing but stating I can get a card. The end. Sorry not dealing with rude lazy librarians who are too stuck up to listen to anyone. Librarians, they are not! I love books and libraries, but these two rude, cannot be bothered ladies need to go. The library is for the public! Stop acting like a mean girls club! So disappointing for a library experience. Steer clear from Jessica and the mean girls in the back. Maybe they forgot its a PUBLIC library, not a sorority club! {update 11−7−15, Jessica is now trying to target us! and is trying to charge us for apparently damaged materials, she read my review on here! Ha! we decided to ignore her rudeness, buy the book and donate the money to the library to hire nice librarians}

Beautiful new facility in a convenient location! Lots of computers with wifi. Book selection is a little sparse, but I requested that 3 books be sent to this location for pick up, and they were there in 3 days. Not too shabby!
The open layout isn’t the best for reading or studying (unless you’re good with headphones or ear plugs), but there are several study rooms convenient for group work. They need more cubby study space for individuals, or perhaps a wall between the computer and reading areas.
There’s bike parking but it’s nowhere near a window or the entrance. This is NOT an area I would leave my bike parked for very long. The library is located right on Central next to the City bus stop, and there are some «interesting» characters around.
All in all, a great new building. I will be returning!