Penn Lake Library — Attraction in Bloomington

I really loved this library because it is spacious and clean. There are three rooms available for reservation. I have been visiting this library for a year now, and I can say that for the past eight months, one of the rooms has been constantly reserved by someone for what seems to be either psychological or other types of sessions. And it is extremely loud.

These sessions last for a long time, and every time I come to the library to study in a quiet and peaceful environment, loud conversations from that room fill the entire library. This room is intended for studying, not for discussions. There is even a sign stating that the room is not soundproof. I believe everyone understands that a library should be a quiet place, and maintaining this silence is important for everyone’s convenience and comfort.

It feels like this library does not respect other visitors. Just because someone reserves a room does not mean they can do whatever they want. I don’t understand why they are still allowing this room to be reserved for such loud conversations. I have had to leave the library multiple times because I could hear these loud discussions throughout the entire space.

Additionally, if you reserve a room to sit in silence and study alone, you end up hearing someone shouting and banging on the walls next door. I absolutely do not understand the library’s policy if they allow psychological or other sessions to take place in this room, as there are other facilities specifically designated for...

This is one of our favorite local libraries. Besides being classic in layout/design...it is just big enough to have everything you want...and...need. The staff has always been more than helpful...kind...and...knowledgeable. They offer many complimentary computer stations where you can browse the internet/print/study. There is also a photocopier/fax machine that is currently free to use. [before Corona...there was a ten-cent per page fee but...they've been allowing complimentary printing for a set number of pages per patron...per day...for quite some time now. Not sure how long that will continue but...it is a nice amenity.] They have a decent selection in their children's area from early readers...to school-age/older children as well. Outside...there is a small natural play area for warmer months. Another bonus is that they are open seven days a week...with the exception of holidays. They offer many free classes/activities in the onsite meeting room which can also be rented out for free with prior reservations. We stop in several times a week...and...will always...

The staff should be trained on what Data Privacy means. My sister called me to tell me that my son has one overdue book. I told her I will call them and return it today. I called the library, gave them the name and phone number on file and I asked for the name of the overdue book so that we can make sure we are returning the right book. The person I spoke with asked for my name, I told her, then she asked more questions like when did we call you, I clarified that the automated call went to my sister a few minutes ago since that's the phone we had on file. She then replied due to data privacy, she couldn't give me any information. This is laughable. What has the name of a book got to do with data privacy?...