Brooklyn Public Library - Brooklyn Heights Branch — Attraction in New York

3 stars because the library itself is amazing I absolutely love it. However, Two of the workers here are extremely rude, Michelle & Christine are RUDEEE. Not sure if it was because the woman was a black nannie or if Cristina just does not use manners at all, and instead speaks to people as though they are below her. I witnessed the way she spoke to someone and she didn’t even really speak, she used her hands to signal the person to “move out the way.” When I saw this rude gesture I decided I wanted to speak about that, because that is not the way to speak to anyone, she could’ve politely said excuse me, or I need to get in this area please. Anything but gesture at someone as if they are not human. Anywho, When I originally tried to ask Cristina for her name, she looked at me and ignored me, knowing she was wrong. I attempted to ask “Michelle” who Christine was (I did not know her name at the time) Michelle tried to call security on me. All I did was ask for a name. Michelle even went as far as to try and get another man involved who also said he didn’t see anything wrong with me asking for a name, and didn’t see the reason for security. All of this transpired simply because Christine didn’t choose kindness and I wanted that to be noted. Freedom of speech? Kindness to others regardless of race, or occupation does that not apply to black Nannie’s who visit...

I stopped in here on a whim while exploring Brooklyn on a weekend adventure, not quite sure what to expect. What greeted me was one of the most playful, effortlessly elegant libraries I have seen in the United States. Such a lofty statement might sound like hyperbole, but such is not the case. When I was in Norway last summer, I spent a large portion of my trip starry-eyed at what their libraries were like. Clean, elegant, airy spaces, lighted bookcases, and ample public space for people to gather around, along with extensive sections design specifically to be welcoming to children. There was geometric architecture not harsh or utilitarian, but instead encouraged people to spend time in the library. These places were comfortable and stylish, futuristic without being too ostentatious or kitschy about it.

This library is not quite at that level. But it reminds me significantly of those libraries I saw in Norway, those libraries that I believe that the United States should take as a model for creating livable, soothing public spaces for people of all ages to read and explore all the intellectual wonders that their imaginations can touch. Its intimately minimalist architecture alone would be enough for me to place it above almost any other library I've seen in the city,...

The newly renovated library is beautiful, sunny and comfortable. Their book selection is great so far and there's a lot of seating areas with accessible power outlets. My only complaint is that the "quiet" studying zone of the library is right behind the stairs to the children's area.

Unfortunately, there are often young kids full-on screaming down there or running up and down the stairs. The sound carries directly into the quiet area above. Even my noise-canceling headphones have trouble drowning out the noise. I imagine it's even worse for the patrons without headphones.

I get this is a public space and I certainly don't want anyone to be excluded. However, I feel like others should have a relatively calm and quiet space to focus on their work or studies, especially since the surrounding city is so crowded and loud. Maybe the library will mitigate the noise somehow, as I know construction isn't finished there. Regardless, I'm still excited and grateful this place exists.

Edited to add: I’ve also noticed there are no trash cans in the restroom stalls for menstruation products, which was...