North Little Rock Public Library - Laman Public Library — Attraction in North Little Rock

Grew up going to this library when I was a child. Just moved back to the area from out of state and decided to use the library instead of going to a private business. Went to the library to pint off a simple document. Storms caused the electricity to pulse and took out their computer system, so they decided to pause before starting up their computer systems. Was told that it was only going to be 15 more minutes from the time that I entered and asked. Asked if their system could open my document, or if I needed to go elsewhere. They said that it wouldn't be a problem, once their system was started. It was very apparent with my questions that I hadn't been to their library in a very long time, or ever. No one every asked me if I had a library card or explained the process of printing a document at their facility, even though they were literally standing/sitting around, since the entire system was down. I even asked if there was a manual system to their card catalog, since the power was down, because I'd look up some books, while I was waiting on them. Completely on computers and in no order to find anything without their system working and in place. After 45 minutes their systems were started and I was then able to get started on printing my documents. Once in the computer lab, again, they were telling patrons that they couldn't log in and it would be a few more minutes because of a server issue. I then asked the question, "Will I be able to print off these documents without a library card?" The answer, "Yes, but it is a $2.00 guest fee." I then walked back downstairs and asked about getting a library card. I was told that I would need 2 pieces of mail to get a library card and that my Arkansas Issued Drivers licenses wasn't enough to get a library card, even though it was issued in the past 6 months. So after wasting an hour of my time, I left without getting my documents printed and went to Kinko's who printed them off and only took 3 minutes door-to-door. Oh, it cost less than a dollar. If an entire system is going to only be computerized, with no manual backup of any kind, why isn't at least basic machines throughout the complex on some sort of battery backup? And people are wondering why libraries are dying... Keep it up and you'll all...

It had been a few years (5) since I last visited this library. I was surprised by all the services and resources they offer. Their customer service is AWESOME, SURBERB to say the least. The staff members were very helpful.. Today I visited the branch for the notary services and after being assisted i noticed on the other side of the room items that the notary told me they were available to check out/borrowing. I assumed they were regular library items like audio books, or children read/sing along books b/c of the packaging. As i walked closer to the items in the area the notary stated "no those are cooking/household utensils" and they are available for check out/borrowing as well. I was amazed. I informed the notary how awesome of an idea this was. She also pointed out that they have mechanical tools, as well. They have a t-shirt making machine to use (i don't think it can be checked out) a crikit machine, stencil maker, and all kinds of other art supplies,...

This was my first visit to this library, and it was for a passport. We were greeted and told there would be a wait. We checked in and roamed the library. We went through the vinyl record and CD collection and looked through the book collection for about an hour before sitting in the designated passport waiting area. Jenna checked in on us to make sure we had the needed documents, and they were filled out correctly while handling a family that was also getting passports. She was super helpful and took the time to explain the difference between the passport card and the passport book, along with the benefits of each. She made everything easy to understand and was so friendly to talk to. We ended up having a really nice conversation while she helped us.

Just a heads-up — there is a bit of a wait, so patience is key, but it’s totally worth it for the great service and helpful guidance...