Hillsdale Free Public Library

The children’s department at this library is extremely disappointing. Most of the children’s librarians are rude, unwelcoming, and seem completely unsuited to working with kids or organizing children’s activities. Instead of creating a warm, engaging environment, they make families feel like an inconvenience. The children’s area itself is uninviting and poorly designed. Compared to other libraries in the area, there is virtually no space for kids to play, explore, or interact. It feels outdated and sterile, not like a place meant to foster a love of reading or learning. A large portion of the circulating children’s collection appears obsolete and badly in need of weeding and updating. The overall impression is that the children’s department has not been a priority for a long time. This

Children's librarian is extremely rude, accusatory, uncooperative, and crossing the line to being mean to patrons. So unprofessional. The other 5 reviews talking about the staff's bad behavior is true.

A very nice, well ventilated/air conditioned and comfy place for more than just reading. I went to this Library often during my last few college semesters to have a nice quiet place to study and work on assignments. It really helped my grade in the end that I had this library to go to. Staff is kind and understanding, Sitting spaces are always available and occasional events come around for gatherings that aren't always tied to books such as charity and presentation gatherings. I'll keep on stopping by just so I have a quiet and comfy place to come back to whenever I'm in the Hillsdale downtown area.

Excellent adult activities and presentations for all ages. Wonderful, helpful and knowledgeable staff.

Unfortunately, the "One Star Reviews" are predicated on the staff's behaviors? There is some truth to it. Some of the Staff are perfectly fine - especially at night - but, there are those who are not - especially during the day - If they like you, you will know it. If they do not like you, you will know it. Such behavior is not the sole domain of this Library; It seems to be quite prevalent - especially - after Covid-19. Libraries of today are not full of warmth or hospitality; they have become the "somewhat domain" of Technocrats. The Library has received a "Paint Job" as Blue goes a long way to warm up the place. Order is better and in general, the message got out that The Library needed a bit of sprucing up and got it! A much needed improvement and most welcomed, too!