Calgary Public Library – Signal Hill Library

*MYSTERY, MIGRAINES vs ACCUSED OVERDUES*
I have been going to Signal Hill Library for the past 5 years and over that period of time have experience both good and not so great service. Sadly 1 of the busiest locations has seen decline is service and integrity!
2 years ago (2011) they put a new system in place, in hopes «of improvement». When I say ‘changes’ I’m referring to the switch from personal customer service into digital and electronic-​al– assistance the plan was to help make returning or signing out something easier for EVERYONE. However it issued more problems for starters the system kept breaking down there for you had only 1 option to stand in line for 10 – 15 minutes while you waited for a librarian to assist you. In the meantime both parties are annoyed by the crowded lines and inconvenience. I was informed by a reliable source (Librarian) that the cost to fix the problem and waiting time to get a service person in was costly and time consuming.
When the return system was «working» an I say that lightly most days when I places a book into the computer system it wouldn’t properly scan my books & DVD’s, later showing on my account summary on-​line that I had overdue books or Item was not returned. When in fact it was! This kept repeating itself time and time again. So much so that 1 of the librarians accosted me and pointed fingers at me for «not returning the items properly». However I’ve learned over the 3 years I am NOT ALONE with experiencing this «glitch issue». The frustration of confrontational employees, rude service plus unreliable resources toke it’s toll.
The last few times I’ve come by to pick-​up the items wouldn’t be available on the selves, so someone would have to go to the back and find it. Plus their phone reminders have got to be the most annoying thing ever! Other libraries call 1 time to remind you, how ever Signal Hill is designed to call you for each item available for pick-​up. So If I have 20 items, I get 20 calls from an automated voice who pronounced my middle name «Natasha» as «Nutalia».
I’ve decided that even though the location is close– it’s not convenient and changing Libraries have made a world of difference. It’s time to move on.

The 21^st Century has arrived at the CPL! An incredible, high-​tech return system in the front foyer! What a glory, no more obfuscation with the check-​out ladies (I swear, I just returned my three New & Notable items 10 minutes ago! I would like to check out these brand new Blu-​Rays now!). Also, the interior is cool: high ceiling, plenty of study nooks and dozens of computers with Internet access. Four check-​out terminals and always two humans doing the old fashioned checking-​out. The main reading area has a fireplace! It speaks to my heart. I never got much of a chance to explore the shelves, but I am sure it is a good selection, somewhere in between the central branch’s floors of awesomeness, and Southland’s cozy slim pickings. Great location.

Signal Hill Library is, funnily enough, situated in front of the landmark Signal Hill in the outer reaches of southwest Calgary. I frequent the library often and speak from experience when I say that it’s a welcoming space that delivers all you can expect from your local library. There are numerous study carrels, as well as tables for patrons to use, and there’s also a clean, naturally lit reading area for weary browsers. Their card catelogue can be accessed on one of the numerous computer terminals.
What I like most about the Signal Hill branch is that they have up to three people at the information desk to check out your items or to assist you otherwise. That means, regardless of the size of the line, you’re sure to be on your way in short order. It’s definitely an efficient and educational place to visit.
As of writing this, this branch is undergoing renovations to expand and improve upon the existing structure, which only means better selection and service for us!