Columbus Metropolitan Library: Shepard Branch — Attraction in Columbus

The power went out at my place, and apparently for several blocks around me, which totally disrupted my workday. I needed somewhere to set up and finish off the day, and luckily, this public library is fairly close to my house. That convenience alone was a lifesaver.

The library itself is a decent size and clean, which I appreciated right off the bat. When I arrived, all the private rooms were already booked. It’s unfortunate they don’t offer more of those, but given the size of the facility, it’s understandable.

There are quite a few public computers available, many were occupied by kids gaming, which honestly surprised me. The machines seemed decent enough to handle it, so props to the library for keeping the tech reasonably updated.

One drawback: there aren’t many tables with electrical outlets. I got lucky and found one, but it definitely made me aware of how limited the options are if you're planning to work from your laptop.

Also, I wouldn’t call the library quiet, especially if you need to take a conference call. Between chatter, foot traffic, and kids using the computers, it can get pretty noisy. Bring noise-canceling headphones if you’re planning to hop on a Zoom call.

All in all, it’s not a bad backup plan when you're in a bind. Just don’t expect total silence or a high-tech co-working space. It gets the job done when...

I wish I could give zero stars seriously!! I've been coming here for two years as its the closest branch to my home and I'll be honest...if you want a terrible, destructive experience where its loud like a rock or rap concert, kids running ramped with no adult supervision, staff that has zero control or really care (maybe they are scared of the kids or maybe there is nothing they can do but you can def speak up!) and the police being called on kids for literally destroying the computers (punching, slamming and kicking them) and then proceeding to cuss out the grown adult patrons for no reason at all as they walk in well as well as the workers then this is your place to be. 3 weeks ago it was so bad I had to pack me and my daughters items and just go before they said anything to us and we have to have a problem. I'll stick to the main library hell even DRIVING PARK is better than...

This library is the worst. I am here and this woman who is an employee has this big dog here.She does not seem to be working just here on her day off with her dog. I am very allergic and I am itching all over while she sits here in the child area. I would love if she see that other people were here and thought to be considerate enough to get up and leave, but I bet that white privilege of hers feels like none of us here in this library matter. They should have a sign stating that animals are welcome so people know to go to a...