Multnomah County Library – Rockwood

Just moved up from Salem. I am quite disappointed in the library up in the Portland/​Gresham areas. Large spaces with alot of unused areas. Less then half of the square footage has bookshelves while the are lots of computer where kids are playing online games. In contrast to the Salam area it is the opposite

After getting settled into my new place on Glisan St, I felt the first order of business should be getting a library card, so I hopped on Unilocal and found Rockwood, which is just a couple miles down the road. The guy at the front desk was hilariously helpful. While observing my California driver’s license, he exclaimed, «Whoa! Your license expires on your birthday!» Yes my friend, as does everyone else’s in California. He then says, «well, let’s get you started in here.» And he must have enjoyed saying that, because he said it a second time, «let’s get you started in here.» Only this time he kinda sang it.

I’m a huge fan of the Multnomah County Library system, and after becoming used to the service at the Midland Branch (one of the largest branches outside of the Central location) — was distressed to move to a smaller location in Rockwood, even though it was on my commute route and easier to access.
But all the qualities I love about the Midland branch are here in abundance — cultural diversity, friendly bi-​lingual staff, and access to reference services. The staff are courteous and helpful, and I’ve only ever received crappy service once in my ten years with MCL — at the Midland Branch. Rockwood and North Portland have always been incredibly helpful.
At Rockwood it would seem the internet computers are constantly booked — I’ve never been there without seeing a line. The reference computers are easily accessible — there is a community space which can be reserved for use, and though small and a bit cramped, the space is well lit with many windows. There is ample parking available whenever I’ve stopped in.
The library systems offers thousands of books, DVDs, and CDs — but it can take several weeks to get a popular item and I’ve almost always had to place items I really wanted on hold before receiving them.
I have a dual card with Clackamas County Library system — and it’s much easier to get popular items there. You can get a free card if you already have on at MLC, and I highly suggest it if you want to avoid 300 person hold lines.
The MCL is an exercise in patience, but maybe with better funding and more locations — that problem would be eased.