Sunday Afternoon at the Long Beach Main Library

On Sunday, June 22, 2008, I paid a visit to the Long Beach Beach Main Library. Though there are closer libraries to where I live, I chose the Main Library because its the only library I know that is open on Sundays, and they are the largest. It is located in downtown Long Beach, at the following address: 101 Pacific Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90822; the phone number is (562) 570-7408. If any further information is needed, you can visit them on the web at www.lbpl.org.
Upon entering the library, (though I have been there a few times) I begin to realize how big and comprehensive it is. As I continue to make my way further in, I begin to notice that they utilize the Dewey Decimal Classification System - speaking with a librarian secured that fact. Obviously, there are thousands of books available for public check out, but they also offer other materials such as, CD's, DVD's, VHS, audio books, and audio books on CD. Aside from their comprehensive collection of materials, they also offer services to the public. Computer and online access, reference services and even an Information Center for People with Disabilities is available. This center offers volunteers providing 1-on-1 service, specialty items such as braille keyboards, wheelchairs and sccoters for library use and ADA adjustable computer workstations. Throughout the library, there is plenty of seating for people to enjoy. The library is split into two levels. The ground floor contains the majority of the content: general books, reference area, children's section, and electronic resources. The lower level mostly carries non-print materials such as music, movies and audiobooks. Also on the bottom level is the Miller Special Collections Room. It has a grand entrance; big wooden double doors with golden accents. The collections inside have an emphasis on Asian culture, but also carries rare, first edition books on a variety of topics. All books in this special collection are not available for check out. However, they are available for use in the library.
The reference section of this library is a comprehensive one. Resources available include: Government Documents (U.S. Regulations, California Codes), phone books, car repair manuals, periodicals (both print and microfilm) maps and atlases. All of these materials, of course, cannot be checked out of the library. However, these materials are available for use during library hours. I decided to speak with a reference librarian to find out more about their online reference resources. Though I did not get her name, I must say she was enthusiastic in answering my questions. Right off the bat, she informed me that the two most popular electronic resources are the ProQuest Newspapers and EBSCO Magazine Database. Aside from being the most popular, the librarian also told me that those are the resources she recommends the most. EBSCO Magazines include over 1,100 periodicals that cover nearly ALL subjects. It is their most comprehensive magazine database. She also pointed out to me a unique database called "Opposing Viewpoints". This is an online library of the most current social issues, but offers materials and resources from opposing views of any given subject.
This visit to the library presented me with an opportunity to familiarize myself with common services and materials offered at these institutions. I am convinced that the Long Beach Main Library is now my library of choice. Though it is a bit out of the way for me, their comprehensive services and materials offerings, an enthusiastic and helpful staff, and convenient hours of operation (they're open seven days a week) it makes the drive from the Top of the Town worth it.