Brookhaven Library

A library should be a place that people WANT to go to. Especially in this digital age, libraries should be doing everything they can to attract people.
Unfortunately, nothing about Brookhaven library is comfortable, interesting or inviting. I REALLY hate saying that because it is the most convenient for me, but I always walk in, get what I’m looking for and walk out. I never linger, nor do I ever have any desire to.
It is dimly-​lit, kinda smelly, crowded and uninteresting. Even in its small space, it is nigh impossible to find anything because it is jumbled and not easily navigated.
I know that a lot of library funding comes from the government, but there are plenty of beautiful libraries in this city. Why is this one so down-​and-​out?
The location is great, but Brookhaven library is sorely in need of a serious upgrade… or a new home. I’d be happy to help with a fundraiser if I thought it would produce results.
That being said, the ladies (there might be a gentleman or two, but I’ve only ever seen the same two women) are genuinely sweet and helpful, and maybe the only sunlight in the whole place.
The parking lot is plentiful in the back, but a little tricky to find if coming down North Druid Hills.
LIBRARY NOTE: Even if you do not live in Dekalb county, you can get a library card for $ 40 per year (you must go in to the library with a form of ID and a bill with your address on it, and you must pay with cash or check)

My neighborhood library that I can easily walk to. It’s very tiny and doesn’t always have the book you want, but with it being in the Decatur system, you can easily go online, ask for a book, and pick it up within a couple of days here. The selection is decent enough, though, and the more popular books will be here. If they aren’t, ask to be placed on the wait list and wait for the email alerting you that it’s your turn. The best part about the size of this one is that while it can seem «busy» due to it’s size compared to the amount of people inside, it’s actually very quiet and peaceful.
The librarians are very nice and helpful, which is great. Who wants to be run off from reading? That’s what high school is for… am I right?
Note: If parking in the front is full, go around to the back and park. You have to walk up a flight of stairs or take an elevator, but it’s a nice option if you can’t walk here.

For the size, this library sure packs in a lot. There are several computers for the public to use as well as a little of everything else. While I often forget to stop by, public libraries like this are a wonderful much forgotten resource. Also, I think you can request items online from other libraries to pick up at this location. It’s been a while and I’ve forgotten my password, but that’s a nice alternative to having to visit another library location.

This tiny little scrap of nothing is the size of my first library in Miami Springs. But the people here are so friendly, and so willing to get books for you from other, larger libraries that if you live around here, you’ll enjoy being their patron.
If you want to browse a larger collection, though, the Chamblee branch is not terribly far away.