Santa Fe Public Library La Farge Branch

I love this little library. So often it has the nonfiction books I am looking for, while the newer and older libraries do not. Also nice is the fact that I can check out most southwest books, while the Main library has so many under lock and key. They’re not short on fiction, either; always plenty to read here. The chairs are comfortable enough, tables are provided, a computer is always available to look up books, the books are filed well, and cartels are available. Parking is always available, and I don’t have to hike so far to get to the books, a problem with the Southside library. (I have trouble walking). I do not like the information desk being smack-​dab in the middle of the library. It’s way too noisy. While the patrons are politely creeping around and whispering, the people who work this station like to talk loudly – and a lot. If it weren’t for that, it would be perfect. That said, everything else is great, the people are friendly – and I love having a library close to home. It’s too bad the city may take all this away from us in 2017. Another strike against mid-​town.

This is a vintage kind of library. The staff is nice and helpful, and the kids’ area is bright and colorful. But this branch could use some renovation funds. Part of the building looks abandoned or unused. The public library on the Southside is super new and modern, which makes the La Farge branch look even more neglected. I hope the city steps up and gives this library some funds. Maybe if the property taxes on the Mansions of Santa Fe were higher and distributed differently, the city could afford to invest more in public schools and libraries.