Saint Paul Public Library – Merriam Park

This library has the best selection of non-​fiction books. I love all the information and beginner how-​to books they have. It’s of course very quite and isn’t too known for children’s books (so not too many louder children around). There is plenty of work/​reading desks to lay out books or put a laptop and supplies on. The staff I haven’t had too much interaction with but for the most part they seem very helpful and nice. I have seen some volunteers that always have smiles on their face that seem very approachable.
Love this library and recommend it to anyone looking for a great non-​fiction section.

This library is OK but not what I personally look for when I’m scoping out a library. I will say that the library is in a nice area and is very well kept. What I personally had a problem with was the floor plan and somewhat limited selection. There’s a wall towards the back where it’s set up for individual study but most of the group tables don’t have outlets for charging your devices. I don’t know how else to explain it but the vibe in there is also a bit odd. I probably won’t go back but will see what he rest of M/​SP has to offer.

I love my neighborhood library branch, and I really like some of the staff members with whom I’ve had contact, exchanging opinions about dvd movies we’ve watched and want to recommend to each other.
I always find something unexpected here, be it reading, listening, or viewing materials. That’s what I’ve always liked about the library — finding something that grabs my attention at the moment and then being able to «borrow» it for a little while.
There is always a selection of *free* or reduced-​fee passes to places around the Twin Cities (Science Museum, MIA, etc.) that you can «check out». Be sure to see what’s available when you’re in there — it may give you some entertainment ideas.
Their parking lot is tight on space, however, there’s plenty of free street parking available in the area.
At times, they have a rolling shelf unit sitting in front as you walk in, and on the shelf they sell used/​taken-​out-​of-​circulation books for a pittance price. Recently, I found and wanted to buy a softcover book, selling for $.50. This book appeared to be nearly untouched. Having walked to the library to return some items, I did not have my wallet with me; however, I had found a quarter on the street on my way there. So I walked up to the check-​out counter and got the attention of one of their staff (one whom I’ve talked with on several occasions). I told her I wanted to buy the book but I only had $.25 — could I pay the rest next time I came in? She said yes, taking me at my word. Hearing that felt good. The following week when I returned, I had my wallet in hand, I got the same woman’s attention and then presented her with the quarter.
I have had the fortune of buying a large hardcover art book filled with images of sketches and paintings done by Joseph Mallord William Turner (1775 – 1851), possibly the greatest landscape and seascape artist of all time (thus far). At the time I found this book laying out on a table, their sign read «suggested donation $.50». I happened to have a dollar in my pocket at the time so I slipped the bill into their donation box and walked out with a well-​worn treasure in hand. Being a lover of art, I began learning about this great artist, a person I had never heard of.
Oh, what world’s are opened up by a local library…

One of my favorite branches to visit. Plus, it’s a great location for attending special speaking events, since there is an entire downstairs, w/​lots of rooms for such a possibility.
Yes, it’s one of the smaller branches (in size), but the selection is great, and it’s easy to check out one’s books, dvds & CDs.

This is a small and simple library. Nothing crazy. The 4 study rooms are quiet and available for reservation. They’re a nice alternative to coffee shops, very little distraction AND you don’t have to spend any money. There’s a 2 hour limit for each room. There are tables and chairs scattered around the perimeter of the library if the study rooms are occupied.
Computers are available for those with a library card, printing is available for something like 10 cents a page. I brought my laptop and didn’t have any issues with connectivity to the internet. The librarians are really helpful and nice. Interlibrary loans are convenient, and the library can email you when your book arrives.
I agree with Kathryn B. about the parking situation. My only criticism is that the lot is really tiny and especially difficult to maneuver around when it’s busy. I recommend skipping the lot altogether and scout for a spot on the street.

How can you not like a library? Like most St. Paul libraries, there’s a great kid selection, a bunch (not a ton) of great movies and CDs to rent, and obviously BOOKS.
There’s also computers available to work on and nice quiet rooms to study in.
The parking lot is tiny and good luck trying to get your DVD out of its security case, but all in all, a great small liberry.