Norton Library

This is a very peaceful and relaxing environment (like most libraries) but it is the staff who lift it above the average. They are so helpful and accommodating. If you ask where a book is located, they will first see that it is in stock and then actually accompany you to the racks and pick it for you, showing you where there are others in the same category. They’ll even point out any local events, talks, etc. that may be related to the book subject that you are enquiring about. Other libraries that I have been in have just said ‘it’s over there’ but these people will really go out of their way to be friendly and helpful. A first-​rate library.

I am a regular user of many libraries in the Stockton area, including Roseberry at Billingham, Roseworth, and Stockton Central, but I must say that Norton Library is by far my favourite. There’s just something about the place; it has a great atmosphere. I’ve never been in at any time and found the place to be empty; there are always people in there browsing the large selection of books or reading the papers in the seating area in the middle. The staff are very friendly and helpful, and really know their stuff. The library is very child-​friendly, with a great junior section at the far end, which my 7 year old daughter loves. We have spent many a happy hour in there browsing through the excellent collection of children’s books.
The only issue I have with this library is the entrance and exit doors, which are very stiff and heavy top open. I find it a struggle with a buggy so I’m sure for disabled visitors it must be almost impossible! I find this very strange in a council building, and hopefully they will get it sorted out with some automatic doors in the near future.