Purdy Kresge Library

Decent work spaces, spotty collections, great staff.
Considered the «grad library» — this branch of the WSU library system caters to all readers /​researchers. The main floor, with pod-​like computer stations, plenty of windows, stern but spacious seating, and general level of quiet make it a good work space. There’s also a window-​lit newspaper collection on the first floor if you’re trying to catch up on national or foreign news. Getting in and using the space is free — I’m not sure about non-​students checking out books, but as WSU is a public university there should be a way for non-​students to access resources here (i’ll double check and edit this later).
Their book catalogue itself is kind of a mess. They’re just missing so much that should be standard university material (certainly a $ issue), and things that they DO have are often missing or misshelved — this is a recurring problem and not something i’ve experienced only once or twice. On the other hand, they do have possessions that seem surprising and unlikely. Some of their poetry holdings, for example, are great and curated by someone who really knew what they were doing (they have a large sample of the Broadside Books output, if you’re familiar with Detroit-​based, African American publishing histories… BB is a national treasure). Also, trying to work on any of the floors above the main level is persistently unsatisfying… dingy, vault like feeling. Unless you’re someone who works best by feeling the MOST uncomfortable, these upper level spaces will disappoint (if not creep you out).
The librarians and staff here are fantastic, brimming with knowledges and patience of all kinds…