Walnut Street West Library — Attraction in Philadelphia

Small library, fits in well with the local community. Has mostly low-lying stacks with the occasionally tall case. Has an appalling lack of philosophy, poetry, theology and eastern literature. Has a wonderful children's section and a friendly, helpful library. Is a somewhat cramped space with a misuse of the lower level and a very pretty mural in the lobby. Other then children's librarian and occasional friendly desk person, staff seems kind of grouchy and doesn't seem to really want me there, and seems relieved when I leave, often without a book.Checkout desk is a tight bottleneck, but is efficient all the same. Wonderful, wonderful community center, with a very diverse patronage and authorship. Hosts community events and is very receptive of local schools. Wonderful place but is lacking several vital areas to be...

My main interactions with the free library have been at the Parkway location, which has always been great. Not the most welcoming atmosphere at this location though. Selection is also pretty slim. Some staff can be very friendly, but other staff will definitely let you know that you're an inconvenience when they're checking your books out. Made me feel like I was being a burden just by trying to check out books at the counter. Lot of heavy sighs and eyerolls. Certainly didn't make me want to come back. If you're someone with social anxiety, it can be an intimidating and unfriendly location. Definitely got the sense that staff were overworked, underpaid, and some of them were pretty fed up as a result, which means your experience varies a lot depending on who's manning...

While one of the smaller branches of the Free Library, its location can't be beat if you are a Drexel or Penn student. Personally, I have all of reservations sent to the Walnut branch, which is both an easy walk or ride on the bus to get to. Reservations are self-serve at this branch, which means you can collect your reservations yourself from the shelves; just look for book spines with the first four letters of your last name and last four numbers of your library card. There seems to be a surprising lack of college students at this branch despite its location as its inhabitants are usually that of the local neighborhood instead.

In short, a cozy branch with friendly staff and a...