Richmond Public Library

In my experience, the smaller community branches of libraries tend to be pretty minimal when it comes to their collections. And I get that — go to the main branch of you’re looking for big ticket items. So, upon moving to Richmond, I didn’t have high hopes for my local library. Co-​located in a community centre, I saw it was quite small — would my English-​degree winning heart be happy here?
Happily, yes. A great collection of new titles, award winners and best sellers — better by far than any branch of the Vancouver Public Library I’ve visited. Tons of Quick Read options, an extensive DVD collection, and a large Japanese-​language section? Yes please! Plus, this library has tons of natural light, and no musty library smell. I am a happy reader. And they’re open every day and late on weeknights!
Look, any library is pretty freaking awesome in that they let you TAKE STUFF AWAY without paying them — but you might as well find one that’s clean, convenient, and had the stuff you want. I’ve found it here.