West End Neighborhood Library — Attraction in Washington

I recently had an unfortunate experience at the West End Library that I feel compelled to address. As an 17 year old who studies regularly in DC Public Libraries, I have always appreciated the welcoming environment most branches provide for teens. Many libraries combine the children’s and teen sections or allow teens aged 13 to 19 to use spaces meant for younger patrons when no separate teen section exists. This approach aligns with DCPL’s policies and ensures a sense of inclusion.

During my visit, however, I was confronted by two librarians. One was an older white woman who has worked at DCPL for decades, including at the Mount Pleasant Library, where I encountered her during my elementary and middle school years. Her attitude toward children and teens has always been hostile and grumpy, and her behavior now is no different. At Mount Pleasant, she would constantly claim we were being too loud or act annoyed when she saw us having fun, like playing Roblox or lining up to use the computers. Her negative attitude made us feel unwelcome, and it was clear she didn’t like seeing kids and teens enjoying themselves in the library.

I also vividly remember the red motorcycle she would ride, which became a symbol of dread for me and my friends. Whenever we saw it parked outside, we would get nervous because we knew she’d be inside, causing trouble for anyone who was just trying to enjoy the library.

The second librarian, an Asian woman, also contributed to the negative experience. She claimed that the library does not currently have a teen section because "not many teens come here," which seemed like an excuse to avoid addressing my concerns. Despite my efforts to explain myself calmly, she repeatedly dismissed me and insisted I leave the children’s section instead of hearing me out or trying to find a compromise. Her behavior felt insincere and dismissive, which made the situation even more frustrating.

It’s important to note that many nearby schools, such as George Washington University, are just a short distance away from this library. This means that some college students, who are still in the 17-19 age range, fall into the same category as teens and should be able to use the teen section. Since West End Library does not have a teen section, the children’s section is the most reasonable alternative for teens who want a comfortable and quiet space to work. The adult section is often uncomfortable and unsuitable for studying, which is why I chose the children’s section, as I have done many times before without issue.

Also, the DC Public Library’s own website states, “ALL COMPUTERS IN THE DESIGNATED TEEN AREAS ARE ONLY FOR USE BY CHILDREN AGE 13 TO 19 AND FOR PARENTS OR CAREGIVERS ASSISTING CHILDREN.” This policy further reinforces that, as an 18-year-old, I should be welcome to use these spaces as a teen, particularly in the absence of a designated teen section at the West End Library.

Instead of resolving the situation constructively, the librarians escalated it unnecessarily by calling security, which made me feel unfairly targeted and unwelcome.

I urge DCPL to ensure consistency across all branches regarding teen policies and to train staff to handle situations with more understanding and respect. Libraries should be spaces where all patrons feel comfortable and supported, not places where individuals are singled out or made to feel unwelcome. The treatment I experienced was both disappointing and...

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