Barbican Center Library

The Barbican center library, located directly within the Barbican center, is a public library that has really made a name for itself. Going beyond the call of a public library, the Barbican library has ingrained itself within the local population, pushing to be a staple within the patrons' lives. They serve the public by offering every service they can, catering to disabled, elderly, and those of lower income. The Barbican even has an amazing children's center. 

The Barbican center began its life after WW II. The area had been decimated by enemy bombers, destroying any previous buildings. In its place, the Barbican was built. Originally it was public housing, catering to those of a lower eco comic status. Today, though, the area is home to the more wealthy members of society. The Barbican has become known as a posh area to live in, the giant stone structure losing its once low status. 

To start off, this public library was amazing!! I was floored by how many services they provided. They had children, young adult, and multiple other sections that catered different readers. The children's area was sectioned off from the rest of the library, allowing them a place to play without disturbing any of the readers. The young adult section had an area where children could come and get help with reading. Of course there was a computer lab with a good number of desktops for the patrons to use. One thing that really stood out was the automated book check out. I've never seen one like that before. But then I was sadly reminded that librarians had to be let go due to budget cuts. Another great thing was the music library. I've never seen one like it before! And they even had practice pianos!! 

All in all, the Barbican center library was the best public library I've ever been too. They went above and beyond the call of a public library and did what other libraries only dream of doing. They have amazing resource allocation skills, considering all the cutbacks they've had to deal with. I'm so pleased I was able to visit and see the amazing library. I now know what I'll want to strive for in the future.

http://www.barbican.org.uk/visitor-information/barbican-library