Denver Public Library: Ross-Broadway Branch Library — Local services in Denver

The library and it's books, movies, etc are on par with all the local libraries. The staff however are VERY RUDE. First experience that I had with staff was after work one afternoon. I am in construction and had my work clothes on still. I asked for help finding a movie that I was looking for and from the moment I started interacting with the librarian, I was given an almost "disgusted" look, like I shouldn't even be in the library. Plus, when I had given her the name of the movie, she point blank asked me , "Are you sir this is what you are looking for? It is pretty intellectual... Maybe you would like something more like this. ". And she showed me some action movie like I wasn't smart enough to watch anything but that type of movie. I couldn't believe the attitude she gave me. Second time I was in there about a month or so later, I had another bad experience. I was using the bathroom and when I came out, I was confused for apparently using the bathroom for smoking drugs?!? First of all, I don't use drugs not do I smoke cigarettes. I was the only person in there and was only in the bathroom for a minute. The librarian , who was a different one than my previous encounter, made some remark about me being a "homeless loser." She got security involved and told him that I was at the library almost every day trashing the place, harassing "normal" patrons, and getting high. I talked to the security guard and tried to reason with him, but he told me that it's my word against the librarians. So I was asked to leave. It's amazing how rude and disrespectful they are to people at this library. I've never seen anybody harassing patrons, teasing the place, or have I seen or smelled drug use. I think the staff is very prejudice against the more unfortunate people, like homeless members of our city. And to be accused of these things when I just was using the restroom it's unacceptable. I'm sure she treats anybody who didn't looks like they were coming from the opera or a conference like scum. I would have to say that it's not the homeless people or anybody else other than the staff at the library that garages people. Very rude and honestly a terrible example to bake. Where is the commission and kindness? I will never go to this...

I am deeply concerned about safety for all community members and have reported to Denver public library commission, and the Mayor's office. For months at the Ross-Broadway DPL Branch, there are service/shelter resistant unsheltered doing drugs, distributing drugs out front with fights breaking out, remnants of stolen packages. Pedestrians are verbally assaulted and this branch is on a designated "Safe Route to School" for the youth of the Baker Historic Community. Drugs are prevalent about that building, and after use, those inflicted with substance use disorders go inside to use the bathroom, computers, and warm in public spaces, which means deadly drugs to children and adults, syringes, residue, are all on site. It is difficult to comprehend that this is allowed when it is well known that there has been more than one Public library closed for top to bottom sanitizing, after fentanyl and meth found there. This is apparently a safe place for users, but this situation is a potential tragedy waiting to happen. Doing something to rid the safety issues from this branch is far more important than cosmetic upgrades presented in the...

I have a deep appreciation for this library and the dedicated staff. I've been bringing my children here since they were just a few weeks old for storytime and various activities. It's important to me that they continue to enjoy visiting the library and view it as a space for community engagement, resources, and personal development.

However, I have some concerns about the current environment at the library. Issues such as visible drug use, campfires, and homelessness have become prevalent, and the area often has an unpleasant odor. As a result, I find myself preferring to use the drive-thru for book pick-up rather than entering the building.

This situation is disheartening, especially considering that children represent the future of our city. Libraries play a crucial role in Denver’s identity, distinguishing it from other regions across the country. It’s essential to find a balance between providing support for the homeless community while also fostering a welcoming and safe space for...