Columbus Metropolitan Library: Gahanna Branch — Attraction in Mifflin Township

Everyone wants to talk about the new building, but even before this shiny fancy architecture, these librarians have been a beating heart in our community. Every single encounter I’ve had with them, they’ve just seemed so eager and excited to help our family learn and play. Looking for a book? Find a librarian, and your search will be that much more fun. Trying to research something? These librarians are walking Wikipedia entries. Need some help with your library card or renting a room? That hotel concierge from Home Alone 2 should be trained by this staff. No matter the building, the people here bring the love. And then the facility. Some of the reviews have said it’s cold and sterile. Everyone can have their opinion, but I’m baffled by theirs. The combination of bright color accents combined with a honey-stained wood on white are literally drawn from the “warm” color spectrum. All the seating is comfy and cushy. It’s wide open with a ton of natural sunlight (and the sun is warm!). So from a design perspective, it feels the opposite of cold to me. I can only assume they meant the temperature, and I suppose maybe the building ran a little cool but I had a light jacket and seemed just fine. And as for the sterile, well I mean I’m not sure that’s a bad thing.

The only actual complaints I have are where they put the bathroom signs, I keep thinking the restroom is in the tiny little closet. I’d also love a coffee shop inside, but it’s probably better it wasn’t there because I’m terrible at managing my caffeine and sugar.

So as they say, 10/10...

Something’s really wrong when you confuse your local library with your doctor’s office. This new improved library somehow forgot about the drive-thru drop-off! It’s since been squeezed in, trust me, just turn right instead of parking. It’s basically a free-for-all as there’s no walkway or signage in the parking lot.

The thing is, I support libraries, fervently. I get a great deal for my tax dollars, so I’m dumbfounded at the choices made by library leaders.

The Gahanna location has only 12 pc’s for adults. There are 4 Macs in the Teen area, but they can only be used by teenagers. Seriously. Who’s idea was that? And, what will happen if an adult tries to use them?

This restriction completely misses the purpose and intent of a Public Library. I can request to have the library’s filters turned off, but I can’t work on my dog videos at one of the Macs? And, what’s with all the sponsorships? Who’d want their name on a big box of air anyway?

Notice I didn’t mention books, e-books, dvd’s, etc. because those things were clearly just afterthoughts. It does have lots of nice windows, although the glare and heat of the sun made it uncomfortable. I’ll continue to use this library, but sparingly, as I don’t find it...

I attended the grand opening of the new Gahanna Library branch today and I must say, wow! What a beautiful building! 📚The space is tactfully planned out and the high ceilings make the rooms feel much larger and spacious. As I walked through the upstairs area, it reminded me of college. The study rooms, various chairs and tables throughout, and the computer "lounge" area made me miss being in higher academia. 🤣 Although I'm beyond my academic years, I do look forward to visiting this branch to browse books and participate in events.

A note for my own nostalgia: The OG Gahanna Library was where I created my FIRST email address! 📧 I was likely in 4th grade and my friend and I would walk from the apartments nearby to use the computers to browse the internet, scour the aisles for new teen books, or rent DVDs. Many hours were spent at that library during my younger years and I hope this new building offers long-lasting memories to young...