Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch — Attraction in North Beach

While I LOVEE the new place, the elevator does not go down to the parking garage and not all doors have an automatic open. Accessibility and universal design should have been the core aspect of this new build. As a disabled resident, this is extremely disappointing. UPDATE I spoke with someone and they said the elevator can’t go down to the parking garage in a flood plain. Even so, they put STAIRS to the elevator, not a ramp. They could have made it accessible. Inaccessibility and inequity are a CHOICE. Not everyone can afford handicapped parking to be able to park in the front and many disabled people use public libraries. There are many reasons a disabled person wouldn’t have a parking placard as there are barriers to healthcare for a doctor’s note, the disability tax, internalised ableism in those with dynamic disabilities (someone else needs the space more/ableist hierarchical thinking society embeds in us), etc. If more disabled people come than there are handicapped spots (1) in front, then again…. You’re still requiring them to walk in pain longer than any non-disabled person. Non-disabled get to go from protected space to protected space, but disabled people have to go the long way around even in the snow and rain? Try holding an umbrella while using a mobility aid or using it in the snow and ice…. Most mechanical rollators and wheelchairs also have batteries, buttons,etc that cannot get wet. It’s unjust. Every time we leave the house, we have to consider our own exclusion and inequity. The library should have been a safe place that doesn’t force us to consider our own inequity and take the mental and emotional energy to figure out how to navigate the additional inaccessibility. Due to this choice of forcing me to sit in more pain than I need to be in because you chose inaccessibility, you get 1 star. Disabled people are not a monolith. We walk, roll (manual and mechanical), use crutches, canes, rollators, a combination, and others you cannot tell as many disabilities are invisible. We deserve to be included and have equitable access to society and public spaces like...

What a beautiful building! Thank you to everyone who put effort into providing such a wonderful place for learning.

Overview of this library from their website below “BUILDING HIGHLIGHTS

18,000 square foot space – 4x the current branch Flexible meeting room – space for 100 or divided 65/35 Community gathering and exhibit spaces Remote working and study rooms 25+ public computers and laptops More loanable hotspots and Chromebooks Wi-Fi throughout the building Workforce development support Porch & terrace with views of the Chesapeake Bay Imagination Station: interactive play area for children to develop crucial early learning skills Entertaining and educational community events Community health, food insecurity initiatives Early literacy education Makerspace Sound Booth for podcasting and recording Memory Lab with digitization equipment 24/7 accessible pick-up lockers for holds Parking under the building New and expanded programming 60,000+ visitors...

The Calvert Library Twin Beaches Branch is absolutely incredible! This library goes above and beyond to serve its community. The building is stunning, with three floors designed to cater to everyone—kids, teens, and adults. The Makerspace is a creative paradise, offering professional-grade tools for crafting and learning.

The Kids Zone is vibrant and inviting, with fun storytime sessions that my child adores. Teens have their own space with a gaming station and even a podcast booth! Adults can enjoy a peaceful area filled with books, movies, and reservable meeting rooms.

The staff is always friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help. Plus, the terrace offers a breathtaking view of North Beach, making it a perfect spot to relax.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to read, a place to get creative, or fun events like the upcoming Noon Year’s Eve Storytime, this library truly has it all. A must-visit for anyone...