Morris Plains Public Library

Went to this library today with the two boys I nanny. The boys just recently moved to the area so they had never been to this library either. I wanted to see if I could get them a library card or at least find out the details for their parents. I figured I wouldn’t be able to get books out for them but was gonna try anyway. (My own library has relaxed rules so maybe it wouldn’t be a big deal)
The library itself was disappointing. It had books but it was very small. We found 3 books and went to the desk to see if we could possibly get a library card and take them out.
The old lady with short brown hair at the main desk was a major library book nazi. The short version is that I asked her how to go about getting the 4 year old a library card and all she did was make snotty remarks regarding his age (which she didn’t even know). After I told her he was 4, she made another comment about his inability to read the books so she basically told me he wouldn’t have use for a library card. I am a teacher so at that moment I am screaming inside. Going to the library as a kid and getting my first library card was monumental for me! She was totally ruining the experience. After we discussed the possibility of the parents getting a library card to take out books, She then told me that the family doesn’t live in Morris Plains (which they definitely do) so they wouldn’t be able to even take books out and they would have to go to a different library. Her attitude was terrible and made me feel like I was committing a crime to even be there.

I used to bring my kids here when they were small for the storyhour which was wonderful.
As an adult user, since I work 9 — 5, I find the hours of this library strange. They are only open SOME nights for 2 hours and I can’t keep straight which hours they are. Also they are only open on Sat. for a short time …
Because of this, I rarely go to this library anymore. I use the county library which is open 9 to 9 most nights and weekends.
Also, some of the older ladies at the front desk are REALLY computer illiterate.

This library is on Glenbrook Road off of Speedwell Ave. and used to be a farmhouse. There are four computers with internet that can be used for job searches, e-​mail, etc. you can print out and make copies (fee). The library also recently added WiFi so you can use your own laptop if your internet connection at home is malfunctioning. They have «Story Time», for preschoolers ages 3 and up this is highlighted with some of the latest children’s literature and themed activities. These activities seem to be on Wednesdays, but it is best to call for information to confirm. Their Children’s Summer Program includes a reading club and special events featuring story tellers, magicians, live animals and music. Once again, call for information, they have no reliable website. This library is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
The MAIN (Morris Automated Information Network Library Catalog) library system allows you to reserve books via the internet for delivery to the Morris Plains library (all Morris County Libraries, so pick the one in your town). This has literally saved me thousands of dollars in book purchases. I used to spend $ 60.00 a month at Barnes and Noble. I NEVER buy books anymore. I’ve signed on to the MAIN e-​mail newsletters with book recommendations, click on the books I like, reserve them on-​line and pick them up at my library when they become available (they call me and leave a message on my cell).
If I need to renew a book I can do it online so I never have late fees. Then when I’m done, I can return the book — no storage issues no space issues.
The librarians are all retired ladies (and one gentleman) who are lovely, personable and extremely nice to me and my toddler! They have a new library director who rules with «an iron fist!» No, I’m kidding, she’s actually very nice and hasn’t thrown me out yet. The patrons are mostly the jobless (been there!), job seeking, mommies with kids running in and out and the recently retired. Very low key atmosphere — Starbucks without the coffee.