Golden Library - Jefferson County Public Library — Attraction in Golden

This library is doing all the right things. Books are for enjoying and learning. Moderate activity is expected. They have a very health focus on children and family. I was glad to see all the programs available for children, the large selection of books for teens and young adults and a reasonable selection of fiction and non-fiction for all ages. I'm sure they take book requests. They have a good selection of other media as well. They seem to have a sufficient number of staff for the size of the library. There is plenty of seating for computer users and readers. They are welcoming to all people of all walks of life including those less fortunate. They are patient and professional when dealing with disruptions but could use a social worker to help interface with more complicated situations if they arise. They are just down from the government building with responsive, professional, and friendly police, so there is no safety concern with this branch. The parking is sufficient, but there are concerns about park/trail patrons using up the space. It is, however, clearly marked. The library sits on Clear Creek which has plenty of benches and shaded areas for reading outside. The WiFi outside is also satisfactory. I was impressed enough with this branch that I went online to make a donation, to give back for my time there...

Update: after traveling to the other side of the world and back, I have a lot more appreciation of our JeffCo public libraries: modern self-checkout kiosks, vast collection of literature and movies, FREE inter-library loans, including the Prospector collection, and extended hours of operation (past 4 pm!!) I called earlier this week to inquire about a brand new "express library" location in West Arvada, and the librarian was able to answer all my questions. Visiting the Golden library today was like coming back to a dearly missed home, where everything is familiar (holds section, children's play area, computers) AND the Toy Story display in one of the office windows! Staff members helped locate the book on the shelf and also explained how to replace my lost member card and update my membership account online. And did I mention how great JPL website is? A piece of cake to change the password or pay fees online, takes only minutes. Seriously, we are used to take good things for granted.. until we end up somewhere without such facilities. I hope you guys enjoy our libraries as much as I do. Remember to say "Thank You" to...

For a local library, the Golden Library works quite well to reflect the entire community: books, movies, access to books-on-tape, as well as to other library branches to get a book not held on its premises. It serves everyone but those who believe every corner of libraries ought to be run like morgues. There are many opportunities for interactions of children with other children and their family members in the main room, with side rooms for more private places to conduct business or read, to engage in specific chats and/or presentations of interest that target both children and adults, and to display current literature on accessible tables at the entrance. There could be one or two more rooms for quiet interactions with a book/materials to take place, but perhaps it will come with more donations to help realize its growth plan. All in all, it's a good place for all, especially to encourage children to read, discover, be creative, and engage in the community of like-minded...