Lucien E. Blackwell West Philadelphia Regional Library — Attraction in Philadelphia

I really love this library, the staff is incredibly kind and helpful and never seems bothered by my endless questions. From the moment I walk in even the security guard has a kind word to spare or a joke.

There are multiple help desks and whether you are looking for a book, asking about a resource, or a class they are extremely patient, knowledgeable, and caring. If they don’t know the answer they’ll go out of their way to find it or help you. The book selection is incredible, they even have VHS and DVD options- lots!

I was especially impressed by the queer book selections being put on display, it helps makes me feel like more of a member of my community and reminds me I belong. It’s clear the library workers prioritizing making all feel included and helping everyone have access to the things they need. There are always Covid tests and masks available at the front, Narcan, menstrual products, and seggsual health needs (loob!!) (I’m spelling it weird cus idk if google will flag it otherwise). There’s also a pantry outside for folks to take or leave food supplies, even perishable ones!

There are multiple computers for folks who need access and you can print there too. The children’s section is really nice and has a lot of great books for kids. If you’re not looking for books they also have resume help, job search assistance, and other classes, they even advertise events/ classes from other libraries around the city!

Libraries are crucial community spaces and I am grateful that this library is part of my...

I usually have no issues picking up my books but today took the cake. I was early today, knocked on the window and a lady appeared without asking me my name/ID/library card. After I tell her 2x that whoever she's speaking of ain't me and I didn't order any movie, she asks for my ID (she doesn't take it bc it's our of state. What?!?!). Never had any issues since my library card is registered with my current resident address AND NAME. All she has to do is match my name to the books already pre-packaged. She takes my library card, COMES BACK and tells me that the owner of the card need to come and pick it up. Whaaaat? I tell her am the owner of the card (🙄) she goes back and finally gets my book. Golly. The lady who was supposed to be serviced before me arrived AFTER me. But even this confusion should have been easy to figure out. Also her hair was Blonde. Please don't have her do this again... it was comically disturbing. How can you not tie an id AND a library card to a PACKAGE with the name found on the ID AND library card? How?! 😂 (Was going to give a 2 but I generally have a good experience with that...

I'm extremely disappointed at the poor service I received from these two women at the front desk. The muslim woman was even worst that the other one... insisting and forcing me to open a library membership card with them in order to have access to anything/service at this library. I'VE NEVER BEEN TOLD THAT BEFORE IN OVER 7+ YEARS THAT I'VE BEEN GOING TO PUBLIC LIBRARIES ANYWHERE IN PA, NY OR NJ. I asked her what was the point of the "GUEST PASS" and she said yes we offer it but we won't offer it to you unless you open the card with us. Obviously I will never ever return to that library and will make sure no one related or known to me steps a foot there. That was plain ignorance and I do not entertain that! And of course I refused to get the card after being treated so poorly... I will go to a more civilized environment where I will be treated like an actual person. DO NOT GO TO THIS LIBRARY EVEN IF IT'S YOUR...