Gilbert Public Library – Perry Branch

This is a great library. Friendly helpful staff. I love that you can check out yourself. Quick and easy. Lots of parking.

Before I had my daughter, I thought libraries were all but obsolete. I mean, who needs books when you have the Internet? Boy was I wrong! There are so many wonderful programs for everyone from story time for babies, to book clubs for adults. One of my favorite programs is their summer reading program, not only because it encourages kids of all ages to read year round, but because you get cool prizes including a free book for completing the program! (Note: I completed the program with my daughter, not as myself, so I don’t know what prizes they offer to adults. But for the kids, they had cute little toys and then like I said, the free book, which is awesome.)
This library has a big selection of kids books, including the nearly indestructible board books for babies. The board books are smartly placed in a bookshelf-​like toy box where little ones can easily go through and choose what looks good to them. No need to keep these in catalog order, which of course makes sense for these little guys.
Plus, I’ve learned that I enjoy checking books out for myself. I don’t have to spend the money to buy a book to read once and then have sit on a shelf. It’s great!
I love that their catalog is online. The website is easy to navigate, and it’s easy to place holds and check your account. The self-​checkout process is easy, and the number of books that you can check out, plus the length of time you can keep them is great. I’m bummed that it took me so long to rediscover libraries, but I’m sure glad I did. I’ll be returning for many years to come.