Hauppauge Public Library — Attraction in Town of Islip

I agree with the other review - the librarians just talk and talk about their personal issues so loudly, and it is just a small library so you cannot even concentrate on what you're reading. They congregate at the reference desk which is right near the tables and the computers, and in the childrens area, so forget about getting any work done. So annoying. I complained to one of the librarians but it didn't do a bit of good, it was as if I was annoying THEM. They are too busy talking to each other about their favorite restaurant or weekend plans to help the patrons. I heard they are building a brand new library, I hope they train the staff that some patrons need a quiet place to read or just think, and that they are there to help patrons, not just socialize.

Also the stacks are very small - it seems more catered to the movie rental crowd than anyone looking for a good read. Hauppauge...

I'd like to say thank you to the woman who brought her very clearly sick child to this library who she let run around amok, doing cartwheels and screaming, sneezing and coughing all over the place without a care in the world while she sat and spoke on her phone.. who in turn got all three of my children sick. A library should be used as a quiet space to relax and read with family, not for me and my family to be chased out by another patron. I drove over 20 minutes to try this library out, to have my children have a safe space to wind down for the day.

The children's area was cute. The arts and craft stations were a nice touch, although we didn't get to enjoy them. I wish a member of the staff had spoken up to this guest about her child's behavior... Especially being that a library is supposed to be a quiet space.

We unfortunately will not...

Not a large library, but definetly one of my favorites. It's outside facade makes it appear gloomy and cold. But inside a much different story. Huge variety of toys and puzzles for my toddler. Love how neatly the bins are labeled and organized. My daughter loved the tree house in the center of the kids area. Comfortable chairs for the parents (built in recharging stations- unique in my Long Island library experience). Ample parking. Tablets with many apps. As a teacher and library nerd, I appreciate the book displays and the leveled readers organized in yellow bins. The bathroom was clean. For its size Happauge library had thrice as much stuff for toddlers than other larger libraries. A fun day was had. Bonus: Dunkin Donuts right next to the...