Norfolk, VA, is fortunate enough to have over 12 public library branches throughout its city. I recently spent time at the Lafayette Branch, one of the smaller public libraries in Norfolk. Although small, this library did not lack materials and was made up of coziness.
The Lafayette Branch is located in a community and surrounded by a public elementary school, community park, and private school. The location does not have designated parking but does offer free street parking. The branch has a limited outside sitting area but is surrounded by large, beautiful trees that provide a great deal of shade, and I could picture setting up a picnic and enjoying a good book. Although this particular library does not have a luxurious outdoor space, I enjoyed the quiet space and fresh air. An outdoor area of the library is vital for the community; Lesneski (2016) explains that ” libraries of all scales and in all climates can use their outdoor space to serve their community” (p.1).
Thomas, B. (2022). Lafayette Branch Library Entrance. [Photograph]
While further exploring the outdoor space of this library, I noticed a book and media dropbox, bike rack, and ramp that leads up to the entrance. The library appeared inviting and accessible for all in the community.
On The Inside
Once I finished my exploration of the outdoor space, I moved to the inside of the library. A friendly security guard greeted me as I entered through the sliding doors. I first noticed the open concept; from the entrance, I could nearly see all the library had to offer. At the center was the media area, two large tables each containing eight computers, and several printers and scanners were made available for patrons. However, this branch does not offer meeting or classroom spaces. I observed several different areas. Including adult fiction, nonfiction, resource, YA/ teen, and children.
As someone who works with children, I was impressed with the size and availability of the children’s literature area. The children’s space has several small child-size tables, computers, and DVDs. While the teen area offers a wide variety of YA fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, and a large table for reading.
The Lafayette branch is organized with clear signage indicating different genres and age-appropriate readings. I quickly accessed the library’s catalog at a catalog station. While browsing the rows and rows of materials it appeared this library is organized using the Dewey Decimal system and alphabetized by authors.
Digtial Access
This public library’s website directs patrons to the many services each branch in Norfolk offers. The website includes the branch phone number and hours of operation but does not indicate who the staff members are and how many are available. I was able to locate an online catalog and had the option to place items on hold or renew items. I found the website to be user-friendly and informative. I also discovered this library has resources such as large print and audiobooks for those who are hearing impaired. An event calendar was made readily available that showcased several virtual events for patrons. The website can be accessed below.
https://www.norfolkpubliclibrary.org/about-npl/hours-locations/lafayette-branch
The Librarians
I felt welcomed during my time at the Layfayette Branch. I observed several diverse community members using the library and each appeared comfortable in the setting. It was evident the library works hard to establish a safe place for its community. Several displays supported women for Women’s History Month and included women from different racial backgrounds. I observed four staff members during my visit, one librarian (with MLIS), two library assistants, and a security guard. The staff members were beneficial to patrons and I was able to witness one librarian assist an elderly gentleman with a computer and another helping a new member enroll for a library card. Rubin and Rubin (2020) explain how the mission of public libraries stating “most public libraries today state their mission as striving to meet the educational, informational, and cultural needs of their community” (p.121). I felt the librarians demonstrated that mission.
Thoughts
I truly loved the small town cozy feel this library offered. The friendly librarians and easy-to-navigate layout allowed me to feel welcomed. I was slightly disappointed with the lack of seating available to leisure read. I think the space could use a little updating cosmetically and perhaps a little sprucing up on the exterior. However, these minor aspects did not draw away from the warm and inviting environment for all diverse community members.
Reference
Lesneski, T. (2016, August 3). Why Outdoor Space Are Essential for the 21st Century Library. Demco Interiors. https://www.demcointeriors.com/blog/why-outdoor-spaces-are-essential-for-the-21st-century-library
Rubin, R. E. and Rubin, R. G. (2020). Foundations of library and information science (5th ed.).
ALA Neal- Schuman.
Hi Brittany, I enjoyed learning about this small library branch. Your “small and cozy” description made me want to curl up in a comfy chair and read a mystery. However, I can understand your disappointment with the lack of seating. I think it is essential to offer various seating options for patrons. Providing comfortable seating gives patrons the notion that you are welcome to stay and enjoy. I’ve never been to Norfolk, but it sounds like a diverse area I’d like to visit. The children’s section sounds happy and accommodating to our younger patrons. I enjoyed hearing that you felt the entire facility was open, and you had a clear view of its entirety. It sounds like a cozy branch to visit!
Hi Stephanie, thank you for taking the time to read about my visit to a public library. I would agree that having those comfortable chairs gives off the notion that you are welcome to stay and not be rushed out the door. Norfolk is a pretty diverse community with lots to do and see, so I would recommend visiting if you can!
This library sounds like the perfect place to come with your family and find a book. I checked out the website and was pleased to find a lot of useful information. Their calendar was prominent with numerous virtual events, but my favorite part was the tab for reading recommendations. I have a child that loves to read but never knows what books to pick out; this site would help her immensely! You mentioned the library’s display for Women’s History Month represents women with different racial backgrounds and I think that is wonderful. The library needs to embrace multicultural patrons and selecting diverse books is a great way to start.
Yes, I couldn’t agree more! Selecting and displaying books that demonstrate multicultural characters is an excellent way to embrace a diverse community. I also love the reading recommendation aspect of the Norfolk library website. I find at times I am not sure what I want to read next, which helps!.
This small jewel of a library sounds like a great find! It’s good to hear that patrons are actively using a smaller library. Lack of seating would be a big problem for me and my children. My kids love to pick out a stack of books and then take a seat to browse through their stack before making a final selection for check out. Maybe you can submit a suggestion to the staff that more leisure seating would be appreciated by their patrons? I’m sure others feel the same way as you.
This library seems very similar to many of the other small public libraries. While they have all offered a plethora of print books, some things are simply not available. The lack of a meeting room and seated reading areas is a little disappointing, but I do find these libraries typically make up for that with their charm. It sounds like they have lots of virtual community activities and groups available, but a meeting room would be ideal. With the pandemic, the virtual programs have probably served them more, though. I really enjoyed exploring this library through your description!
I think the open floor plan is something I really enjoy about public libraries. It lets me see everything I want to browse, so I really like this concept. As a small branch, I can understand why they may not have the room for meeting spaces or a large selection of seating, but this might draw more patrons. I can understand some disappointment. I do like the large children’s selection. As I have been looking at visits and my own public library, I think this seems to be one of the biggest sections in most of those libraries. I really enjoy your small and cozy public library!