Washougal Community Library

I have been going to this library for almost a year now and I really like it. They do not have much but if you have a specific book you are wanting you can have it transferred to this library or any of the libraries in order to check it out. The librarians are really friendly, nice, and are always helpful. This library branch is connected to the community center, but a brand new library is in the works. They also have activities for the kids scheduled on specific days. There are two self checkout stations or a librarian can check your items out for you. There are drop off boxes located on the outside of the library so you can drop your books off when the library is closed. Parking is usually open, but it can be limited when their is an event going on at the library. There are many tables within the library for you to sit and do research, homework, etc. There are also couches and multiple computer stations. There is also a copier available if needed. I really like this library and I’m excited to see how the new library will look once it is built!

The ladies working at the library have been very nice and helpful. There is an older man who works there that is not so nice.

I thought I would keep up with my library reviews just because libraries in the area are a great source of entertainment. Thank you Fort Vancouver Regional Library District for said entertainment.
This library has gone down hill since I was little. Yes, I have used this library for as long as I can remember. I don’t know if it is necessarily the library’s fault considering the space they are in and the community they serve. The building this branch is in is attached to a community center of sorts. The center serves free meals to seniors on some days so the food smell lingers in the library. It is not pleasant.
This library is very tiny and very crowded. There are several computers bays, tables, chairs, and shelves randomly placed throughout the room. Tables are normally always packed with patrons that are playing card games that I’m guessing is Pokemon based on the fantastic geek talk going on. Shelves also go along the outside edges of the room but when I’ve gone in there recently there are many holes without books. Plus there doesn’t seem to be much order to the books. I’m not sure if that’s just the way they shelve here or if it is the patrons taking it upon themselves to put the books back. I hate trying to search for anything in here because of that very reason.
I have only checked out books a couple of times in the last year here just because they have a book that I wanted to read but didn’t feel like having it shipped to the Camas branch. The first time I checked out, I didn’t realize they had a self checkout station because it wasn’t properly marked. I stood at the counter as the librarian was checking books back in at the very same counter. Instead of her nicely directing me to the self checkout she just glared at me. Wow, way to be super friendly and helpful… at least a customer told me about it after she saw the glare. Now I know to use that anytime I need to check something out and hope I never have a question when that lady is working!
Granted the only time I ever really want to use this branch of the Fort Vancouver Regional Library District is to return books. There are three drop off boxes outside the building in the front so even when the library is closed on Sundays or Mondays I can still turn books in without having to drive that far. Plus it means I wouldn’t have to go in to the tiny, cramped, smelly library.