Kensington-Normal Heights Branch Library — Attraction in San Diego

I’ve been coming to this library for a few months now and have always appreciated how kind and helpful the staff usually are. I’m typically someone who places holds online, picks them up quickly, and heads out. Sometimes I bring my dog along since we’re usually on a walk and the library is along our route.

However, during my most recent visit, I had a disappointing experience. An older white librarian—thin, with glasses—told me I couldn’t bring my dog inside (which I understand if that’s policy) and that I needed to be quick. I normally am in and out within minutes, but her tone felt unnecessarily harsh.

While I was picking up my books from the hold section, she stood behind me and said, in a very condescending tone, “You can just put all your books down and it’ll scan faster.” It made me feel rushed and unwelcome. I understand and respect rules, but the way they’re communicated matters. Being spoken to like that felt more like I was being targeted than simply reminded.

I didn’t get her name, but I hope she treats others with more kindness in the future. Libraries should feel like welcoming spaces, not ones where patrons are made to feel...

What a great Kensington local library. We first noticed the cart outside of $1 books and bought a few. Inside, there are areas of children's books, teen book and adults books. The top half of the card catalogue is a seed collection for neighbors to take home and plant various vegetable, fruit and flowering seeds. They offer a 2-3 person table near a window and a single seat area in another part of this condensed library. Great book selection. The monthly schedule offer several children's storytime and fun events and an adult book club. They also have a Kids Crafts center for make and take creations. Accessible venue via ramp Accessible all gender restroom with two grab bars and adequate space. Accessible street parking that is free and can be challenging to find...

Want to meet a self proclaimed "famous" author who writes books on yellow paper and out loud and talks subliminally to everyone?(talks to you but is he really talking to you or just out loud?) This is the place! Want to see the creepy playground and have mothers stare at you like a bird stares at a hawk as you walk by... this is the place. You want a old dude librarian telling woman that you are 30 and your too old for the young 20 year old librarian...(blocker man) this is the place. Personal and in your face!! I love it. keep it closed!!!!! ahahah the building is Built on an old trailer type building. Every step is audible. Please rebuild into a birdhouse but keep the employees feeding...