San Carlos Library — Attraction in San Carlos

My childhood library. They have this beautiful dome at the entrance that makes the sunlight look like stars. That’s what I remember most about it.

It looks big on the outside, but the library only encompasses the first floor. The lighting and variety of seating gives it a cozy atmosphere that you can ease into while reading or studying. There are outlets, wifi, and library-provided computers to use. Teens and children have their own areas (although they aren’t completely closed off, so some can be slightly disruptive). The space is very well kept.

The book selection was sufficient, though a few subjects like some of their non-fiction could benefit from more variety or options. They also had a bookstore where you could purchase books for cheap through Venmo.

Overall, I was highly...

Used to be a favorite place to go. I noticed over the past month there is fragrance circulating throughout the library, likely via HVAC system, and I was also told by a staff member the library uses air fresheners. I emailed the library and was told their use of fragrance is in response to patrons complaining about bad smells. (No specifics regarding what that means.) Scents and fragrances (all are chemicals, some toxic) can cause asthma in children and adults. This makes the library inaccessible to some children (and adults). Fragrances can cause allergies, migraines and a myriad of other health problems. They cause indoor air pollution. They are bad for everyone's health. (This can easily be researched on PubMed...

I needed to print out a résumé out today on résumé paper (that I bought), but wasn't sure if I could get it printed out here. I called and left a voicemail about it, then a woman called me back saying it was fine (and the printing is free!). So I went to the front desk, and asked this white-haired gentleman in the front about it. He was rude and standoffish, repeatedly saying "no, I don't know who you talked to, we can't do that". Luckily for me, this young woman named Galicia showed up and said it could be done for me. She got it printed out two-sided on my résumé paper. So glad that she was there to speak up for me! I hope they give her a pay...