Juniper Branch Library

I went here for the kids storytime. My biggest complaint would be how DIRTY the kids play area was. I don’t expect the toys to be cleaned daily by any means, and I definitely don’t expect it to be spotless, but the puzzles and blocks looked like they hadn’t been cleaned in months. Everything had layers of black grime on them. A bit to gross for us

Matt works the front counter like a Gestapo Storm Trooper! Beyond rude! Really if you don’t like working in a library please go find a job somewhere more suitable to your social skills. Like maybe as a bouncer at a bar! Also didn’t anyone ever tell you not to snap your gum in public, it’s kind if disgusting.

This is not a huge library, but they a nice selection of books, movies, and periodicals there. The child selection is pretty big and they have computers in the area dedicated for child use only. I like how you have to reserve the child computers; if not I do not think some of the kids would ever get off. There are some that just hover over the other kids that are trying to use them. Friday’s the library is closed, but they are open on Sunday’s. Make sure if you drop off your kids at this library, you are there before it closes. They are not allowed to wait outside the library after it closes, a parent has to be there to get them. I think this is a pretty good rule they have there to keep kids safe. I overheard one of the librarians tell a kid if his parents were not there before it closes they would have to contact the police. Keep your kids safe. They have different passes for some museums around the Phoenix area. I cannot remember how many you can get per month.

It’s located next to KFC on union hills, very close to the bus stop. I have driven by several times not knowing there is a library there since it’s tucked away by trees.
It’s a one floor library, not very big but the collection is quite decent even though I have only occasionally checked out movies. The entrance has the self check-​out kiosks, the computer section and a few tables situated in the middle of the library. I find the whole area in the middle close to the entrance very distracting, too much traffic flow.
The kids section is on the far right end which looks like a safe and spacious area for kids to play. On the other far end of the library is the laptop section which is quiet and good for studying. It faces large windows so plenty natural light. The only drawback is the outlets which are located deep underneath the tables and hard to reach, should have made those more accessible.
Haven’t had issues with parking even though it seems tiny. The security guard wanders around the library so you can feel a little bit safer about leaving your laptop while going to the bathroom which are kept clean.

This place is actually really awesome. Thy have plenty of computers to use, easy check out (with emailed receipts available!) and a decent selection of movies too.
I like this location because it’s not swarming with obnoxious kids playing computer games when you come during «after school hours.
Also, the librarians don’t seem irritated with you when you approach them with questions.
The only 2 things I will say…
1. I would say is they have a more-​limited supply of book/​movies in comparison to other libraries in the area.
2. Also, a lot of things I was looking for they had at the location… but we’re marked as «being processed» so many things are neon returned but not promptly put back out on the floor, which is a tad bit frustrating.
Still going to make this my «home» location for a library, just going to make sure I e-​hold things before I come back and visit!

This location is small, but will get the job done!
Librarians are helpful if you have a question. There are several scanners available for checkout. While book selection is limited, you can get a book from another library by requesting it and having it sent there for pickup.
Computers are available. This seems to be a big draw. Most of them are in use all the time. If they are full, you can sign in and you will be assigned a computer and given what time it will be available. On the downside, there is a one hour limit. It will be extended if no one has requested their use. On the plus side, they have a copier hooked in to the computer system. For a small fee, you can print pdf files or any documents from online.

I tend to log in online, order a book and pick it here. Its fast and efficient. The self-​checkout machines are a breeze to use, and the hold shelf is well-​organized.
Good selection of DVDs and CDs. More can be delivered, just place a hold and have them shipped here. Excellent way to catch up on TV series’ that you missed out on.
One problem is the fiction section seems to pack in a lot of books by «big» authors. If you like reading what everyone else reads, you’ll be well served. If you like searching out new or lesser-​known authors — they have them, but often they’ll have books 3 and 4 of a series — so you’ll have to order 1 and 2 from another library first.
The culture passes go quickly — so line up early if you want one!

I had a moment of clarity where I realized I sat around watching TV far too often and was losing too many brain cells; therefore I decided to try and find a library and start reading to become a smart kid again! The Juniper Branch was the closest one too me and I was surprised to find that I actually drive past it a few times a week but it’s kind of hidden from the road.
I had signed up for a library card online but needed to go in to actually pick it up. The lady at the desk was friendly and helpful, the library itself is clean and pretty easy to figure out. They have quite a few computers available for use and I didn’t have any trouble getting onto one right away with the system they use to reserve them.
I really like that you have the option to search for books and then put a hold request in for them on the library’s website. I’ve used it for several books so far and they come in pretty quickly. It’s very convenient when they are available at this branch as well because they have a huge shelf that they put all the holds onto so you don’t have to wait in line for someone at the front desk to help you, you just grab them, go through the self checkout stations they have and you’re on your way!

Downside
— They’re closed on Mondays
— They don’t have a drive thru
— parking can be a pain
Otherwise it’s a nice branch, everything is self service and checkout but there are employees in case you need to ask questions.

I love this library, I found out about $ 80.00 in fines later that in April you can donate canned food and they trade away your fines! I’ve been saving food now so by April I will have a bunch but hopefully not big fines again!
Update…I had paid off some fines but this April when I went to get my botanical garden pass… i dropped off 20 food items and got my last 10 dollars of fines removed! Woo Hoo

Recently renovated. Very effective and well-​flowing floor plan. The section for well behaved children and brats is located on the complete other side of the building from the rest of the library. Genius!