The Worcester Public Library is a modern, beautiful, and spacious facility that immediately impresses. Clean, bright, and well-lit, the entire space feels soothing and calm, making it an ideal environment for reading, studying, or simply enjoying a quiet moment. Despite the number of people inside, it never felt crowded—just cozy. I noticed people from all different ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds, which added to the library’s welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
One thing I found especially reassuring was the presence of the Worcester Police stationed outside the building. They were friendly, professional, and in great shape, making me feel extra safe while enjoying my time at the library. I came in here to borrow "The Book Thief", but I'm glad they're there to stop the wrong book thieves!
Inside, the library’s displays are thoughtfully arranged, and the librarians are welcoming and helpful, ensuring you feel at ease. The vast collection makes it feel like you’ll never run out of books to explore. Whether you're looking for new releases or timeless classics, there’s something for everyone.
Beyond the books, the library is a hub of community engagement. I loved seeing all the flyers for workshops, meetings, and social events, including therapy dog hours, applying for U.S. citizenship meetings, and senior citizen educational programs. It’s clear the library is actively involved with the greater Worcester community, and I was impressed by the wide variety of events available. Even better, the flyers are available in multiple languages, which shows their commitment to serving the city’s diverse population.
The library is also inclusive, with great options for people with disabilities, including a talking library. There are designated quiet spaces for those who need a peaceful environment, as well as areas for group study where conversation is allowed.
One of the best surprises was the bookstore within the library. The prices are incredible! I found the "Joy of Cooking" for just $5—and it was the updated version. They had classics by authors like Jack London and Jane Austen, all for under $6. The selection may be small, but it’s packed with great books for readers of all ages.
The cashier in the bookstore deserves special mention. She was warm and almost motherly, indulging a lonely customer in a friendly chat before helping him find a book. Watching the interaction was heartwarming, and when it was my turn, she was just as patient and kind. We talked about my book choices, and I left feeling as if I’d made my mother proud! It’s moments like these that make you want to keep coming back.
Before I left, the librarians gave me a warm goodbye, and I left feeling not only smarter but also happier and wiser. Everything about the library—from the bookshelves to the bathrooms—was clean and well-maintained. There’s even water available inside, so don’t forget to bring your water bottle!
They also offer magazines and newspapers, like the Wall Street Journal (I’m pretty sure I saw that). The library is huge, and I love that because I can wander and get lost in it in a safe, comforting way, almost like I’m in a literature wonderland.
Overall, the Worcester Public Library is a treasure for the city. After all, we must always remember the wise words of Walter Cronkite, the legendary American broadcast journalist: "Whatever the cost of our libraries, the price is cheap compared to that of an...
Read moreIve gone to the library almost everyday for the last 8 month, the library overall is genuinely a really pretty place and a great area to study if your from the city and fear nothing. But entertaining the library is like a twilight zone. There’s always a strong smell of urine that lingers, wear a mask or be warned you might feel a little queasy. You can’t bring a scooter in, but a laundry cart filled with trash? By all means. You see people walk around with cigarettes in their mouths all day although there’s no smoking 50ft from the building? I overheard a police officer ask an employees how “the homeless shelter was that day” - I feel bad, but it’s a known fact that ever since the city covered the hole under the bridge near the library. That all the homeless people in the area now use the library as a day shelter. Yet they do nothing to help them? It’s a shame. Oh and with that being said always bring your things with you / lock your bike outside!! All it takes is to step away for a moment to get your belongings stolen. Besides that the library really is such an amazing place, with so many nice resources! The staff is great and if you feel uncomfortable just ask them for a good spot to study, they can really help make you feel a little more welcomed. ~O and the library also host doggie destress days, that I personally love!!! (but again, I don’t know why but that area it’s always in has a weird...
Read moreLibrary updated 2021-2022: Brand new look. See my photos and then look at the other review photos and compare This place is awesome. The sign outside is colorful. Pictures: The inside from Franklin St side to the parking lot side. Magazines and newspapers section, Digitizing Room, a table with a puzzle to put together in the middle of the floor, the stand up computers that are 15 minutes sessions now have tall chairs, the Young Adult 11-17 area changed into an Innovation Room (Sewing and crafts) and the Young Adult area moved down a little ways, the DVD and video games section to borrow them has turned into a huge Young Adult room since the last Young Adult room that was next door to where it is now was too small, the DVD and video games section was too small so it got put across the room where the old side door was and the side door got put on at Franklin St side of the building, the Store moved next to the DVD area, the second floor remains the same, the 3rd floor remains the same in the front except the back if the room changed into a children’s center with activity on the touchscreen wall and a room off to the right side that is for...
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