41. Saint Paul Central Library

The nearest part is the J.J. Hill Reference Library; I've read that both parts of the building were erected at the same time, but by different builders; must have been interesting.

I only visited the children's area on this trip. It's partly below-grade, but has lots of windows and natural light. Large collection. I like having bins labeled for alphabet books, opposites, colors, etc. I also liked the table covered with paper and with the invitation "Hey, everybody, add your art!"

7/17/12, bus

9. Hennepin County, Minneapolis Central Library

This library on Nicollet Mall is almost my home away from home. I take classes at the U of M, and Minneapolis Central is the midpoint of my trip by bus when I take the #61. It's also where I can find books I just can't find anywhere else. Extensive stacks, and I believe something like 95% of the collection is available to the public. The Hennepin Ave. lobby has kept me warm while I waited for my bus on cold winter nights, and the Dunn Bros. coffee shop in the lobby did the same when I missed the 8:09 and had to wait another hour.

The building is huge. I like the interactive wall features as you enter the children's area, and the under-floor feature in the J non-fiction area. There's a great program room for the kids.

Many, many public computers, almost always busy. The staff throughout have always been helpful. I love going into the compressed stacks and making the shelves move in order to locate some obscure volume I've read about somewhere and just have to see.

6/26/2012, bus