Southwest Neighborhood Library

Great library. We all need more libraries… and while there are a pretty decent number of branches in DC, most people should get themselves to the library more to take advantage of them, too.
The plus about this one is that it’s never crowded, and everyone inside seems to more or less conduct themselves quietly and respectfully. I have a friend who hates that in some libraries the homeless will squat at a computer and sit for hours (well within their right to do so, where else would you expect them to go?!) or harass the other patrons but that is not the case here. There’s often a book club going on and there’s a fair amount of community programming, something that the small quadrant of Southwest DC needs more of. Expanded hours have been a boon, too.
This place has been great when the Redbox in the Safeway has had a crappy selection — just check here on your way home since it’s so close to the store, and on top of that it’s free. Checkouts for DVDs are 1 week but their borrowing policy is pretty forgiving and you can renew up to 10 times.
I wish the selection were bigger sometimes, but if you want anything specific you can always have it held here instead of going to the MLK central library in Chinatown. I also noticed they have study rooms open for reservation — an awesome and potentially very useful resource.
Major props to the DC Library here for all the services they provide. Now turn off that screen and go read a book!

Staff is always helpful and often cheerful.
Libraries are the bedrock of an informed and cooperative society.
Many thanks for all you do.

It’s my neighborhood library and I love it! The only reason they didn’t get 5 stars is because the collection sucks but that’s something the government needs to work on. funding wise. I love the neighborhood feel of this library. It’s very cozy and fairly quiet. There are great programs hosted here as well.

Big fan of this library. It is small and quaint. The children’s section is awesome! The staff there is friendly (for the most part) and it is not a lot noise. The children can get a little loud but it doesn’t last too long. Overall, Great library!

Love my neighborhood library! The staff has always been helpful and the selection is quite good considering its small size. What they don’t have they can get in a day or two with a hold request. They also offer interesting evening and community programming.
A real gem.

Should be 4.5 stars.
This one is a hidden treasure! You might think that the building is smallish and old, but once you’re inside, you find great selection, wonderful librarians and a cozy space.
Kids will really like this library– the entire top floor is for 14 and younger.