Toledo-Lucas County Public Library
Toledo-Lucas County Public Library
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5.0
88 reviews
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75
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Lorogers248
Auburn, NY77 contributions
Jul 2022
I just returned from a Nancy Drew convention at the Toledo main library and am amazed at this wonderful library and their staff. They went out of their way with a photo booth, scavenger hunt throughout the library and so much more. They have the Jennifer Fisher Nancy collection in a special room. Their gift shop had lovely locally made items! It’s a wonderful place for children also.
Written July 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
erindent
Toledo, OH22 contributions
Dec 2014 • Solo
I have been to many other library systems around the country. I'm originally from Toledo and when I was a kid the main branch was only the front portion of the current main branch, there was no glass portion in the back, no parking garage, etc.
The library today is BEAUTIFUL! I enjoyed it back then and actually as a kid read all of the children's books in the main branch by the time I was 8 years old (I was a voracious reader and frequently won the prizes for the summer reading program lol)l
Things to know about all downtown branch libraries I have been to around the country from the east cost, to Chicago's main branch to the south in regards to Atlanta's main branch (which also has unique architecture, but sorely pales in comparison to the Toledo library system).
1 - Practically all downtown branches have people who hang around who scaredy sort of people see as "sketchy." I personally have never felt afraid at the Toledo branch. There is security, including Toledo Police at the library during all of the open hours downtown. Toledo in general is very safe compared to other larger cities and I have never heard of any sort of crazy riff raff occurring there. Please don't be afraid to visit based on people who are afraid of anyone who doesn't look like they are middle class suburban residents.
2 - The main branch attracts a large crowd of a variety of Toledoans and every time I have gone it is well attended and has lots of visitors. Toledoans in general love our library and our library system and it is well used. I have only been back in Toledo for a few months as a permanent resident. I go at least 1-2 times per week and have gone to 2 special programs, one on genealogy (they have a GREAT local history and genealogy department) and the other on grant writing for non-profits. Both programs were free for attendees and were well attended. Those posters who say that this system is "dying" or that people don't come to the library are lying. I work not too far from downtown and myself and my co-workers go to the library for lunch a few times per month as well. When I worked downtown over 10 years ago I went on lunch every day to the library and listened to the live bands they would have in the spring/summer season.
3 - The architecture of the library is indeed magnificent. Architecture buffs will not be disappointed. It is an all around jewel like other posters have mentioned.
In summation, we Toledoans love our library. I for one am glad that it is a safe haven for poor people. I was a poor kid who spent practically all day in the library all summer and would have probably been seen as "sketchy" by the elitist sounding posters in their reviews. The best thing about the library system in Toledo is that is provides a ton of access for kids and young people. Those without computers come there to use technology, many times in an effort to find jobs or apply for scholarships like I did. I know without this system, that if I grew up in another time or another city that didn't allow kids without their parents to basically loiter around reading and getting on PCs that I would not have developed a joy of reading, which was an escape from my day to day life. The system truly is a safe haven and is for ALL of Toledo, including those "sketchy" people. Luckily the staff at the library, and in every branch that I have ever gone to, have been excellent, respectful, and helpful and they never treated me "less than" when I did look "sketchy." I have never seen them treat others poorly either.
For those who have never been or who may be in Toledo for a visit, especially if you are staying in or near downtown, visit the library. They have a great cafe and book shop, just walk around and have lunch and maybe buy yourself a souvenir. You will not be disappointed. The food at the cafe is pretty good and the ladies (I have only seen ladies working there) who work there are very courteous as well.
The library today is BEAUTIFUL! I enjoyed it back then and actually as a kid read all of the children's books in the main branch by the time I was 8 years old (I was a voracious reader and frequently won the prizes for the summer reading program lol)l
Things to know about all downtown branch libraries I have been to around the country from the east cost, to Chicago's main branch to the south in regards to Atlanta's main branch (which also has unique architecture, but sorely pales in comparison to the Toledo library system).
1 - Practically all downtown branches have people who hang around who scaredy sort of people see as "sketchy." I personally have never felt afraid at the Toledo branch. There is security, including Toledo Police at the library during all of the open hours downtown. Toledo in general is very safe compared to other larger cities and I have never heard of any sort of crazy riff raff occurring there. Please don't be afraid to visit based on people who are afraid of anyone who doesn't look like they are middle class suburban residents.
2 - The main branch attracts a large crowd of a variety of Toledoans and every time I have gone it is well attended and has lots of visitors. Toledoans in general love our library and our library system and it is well used. I have only been back in Toledo for a few months as a permanent resident. I go at least 1-2 times per week and have gone to 2 special programs, one on genealogy (they have a GREAT local history and genealogy department) and the other on grant writing for non-profits. Both programs were free for attendees and were well attended. Those posters who say that this system is "dying" or that people don't come to the library are lying. I work not too far from downtown and myself and my co-workers go to the library for lunch a few times per month as well. When I worked downtown over 10 years ago I went on lunch every day to the library and listened to the live bands they would have in the spring/summer season.
3 - The architecture of the library is indeed magnificent. Architecture buffs will not be disappointed. It is an all around jewel like other posters have mentioned.
In summation, we Toledoans love our library. I for one am glad that it is a safe haven for poor people. I was a poor kid who spent practically all day in the library all summer and would have probably been seen as "sketchy" by the elitist sounding posters in their reviews. The best thing about the library system in Toledo is that is provides a ton of access for kids and young people. Those without computers come there to use technology, many times in an effort to find jobs or apply for scholarships like I did. I know without this system, that if I grew up in another time or another city that didn't allow kids without their parents to basically loiter around reading and getting on PCs that I would not have developed a joy of reading, which was an escape from my day to day life. The system truly is a safe haven and is for ALL of Toledo, including those "sketchy" people. Luckily the staff at the library, and in every branch that I have ever gone to, have been excellent, respectful, and helpful and they never treated me "less than" when I did look "sketchy." I have never seen them treat others poorly either.
For those who have never been or who may be in Toledo for a visit, especially if you are staying in or near downtown, visit the library. They have a great cafe and book shop, just walk around and have lunch and maybe buy yourself a souvenir. You will not be disappointed. The food at the cafe is pretty good and the ladies (I have only seen ladies working there) who work there are very courteous as well.
Written December 16, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mary c
monclova, ohio462 contributions
Dec 2017 • Family
Parked in adjacent covered parking garage ( free for first hour ). Entered the library on lower level and stopped at the Library Cafe. We all ordered various Paninis- Yum. Fresh iced tea, daily soups and fresh desserts-already out if carrot cake by 1:30! Cheesecake is good. Adjacent giftshop benefits the library-some very unique and reasonably priced items. Going upstairs ( elevators available) enter the main library and atrium. Great signage and friendly staff to help you find your way. 2nd floor is for kids of all ages- play areas , books, reading nooks, the Jeep from sheep in a jeep , a Rainbow fish aquarium, solar system on the ceiling, the cat in the hat, as well as a cartouche- amoung many other delights ! Besides the usual books and multimedia- in Warmer months the library also offers outdoor rooftop areas, and the brown bag concert series . Additionally we spotted passport services. A great place to spend an hour or a day! Enjoy.
Written December 29, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Clark F
3 contributions
Jun 2021
Most of the library staff at Main are decent; however there is one who is sitting next to me that had ME banned for comparing her to a retired librarian due to the comment she made to security that she felt threatened! Her name in Amnity9sp?) and i would not ask her the time, let alone for any help!
Written June 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Richard D
Williamsburg, VA334 contributions
May 2017 • Couples
The Toledo public library and the Toledo Blade newspaper needs to be commended for their authors authors series. We heard Ron Chernow the author of Alexander Hamilton speak tonight. He did an outstanding job!
Written May 31, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jane3505
Toledo, Ohio253 contributions
Jan 2015 • Couples
The library has a large for sale section run by friends of the library. The hours at the Sanger Branch are really good. The new release selection and reference book selection are well stocked.
Written February 5, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
GreggEE27
Toledo, OH69 contributions
Jan 2015 • Friends
I really appreciate having a public library. There are many reasons to go; e.g. quiet study time, quiet reading time, computers for homework and study use. The only thing I find annoying is when the "inner-city" crowd pardon my language come in just to use the computers for facebook or some stupid online game, so for the most part I stick to the suburban brances.
Written January 24, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ZZcrizz
Chicago, IL62 contributions
Nov 2014 • Friends
This is a terrific opportunity for the public to hear a wide variety of authors, illustrators, journalists, and other speakers. Always very organized, well publicized, with excellent presentations.
Written December 10, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Peter F
Bowling Green, Ohio, United States25 contributions
Jun 2014 • Friends
The Main Library in Downtown is the crown jewel of the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library, which is one of the best in the nation. The architecture of this building is not to be missed, as when you enter you are greeted by a beautiful mural and glorious Art Deco architecture. The collection is outstanding, and Toledo is lucky to have such a wonderful resource.
Written October 27, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
712Jamil
Toledo, OH24 contributions
May 2013 • Couples
Not only is the Toledo-Lucas County one of the best in the country but it is one of the oldest. You would not know that by its offerings and its buildings. We are so lucky to have all of the branches and the wonderful librarians who work at them. Very up to date in every way as well as a beautiful place to visit.
Written July 29, 2013
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ojbutididntdoit
Toledo, OH
Can I return my library books to any local public library if they're from the same county
mary c
monclova, ohio462 contributions
Yes. At any branch
Toledo-Lucas County Public Library - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Toledo-Lucas County Public Library
- We recommend booking Toledo-Lucas County Public Library tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 1 Toledo-Lucas County Public Library tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Toledo-Lucas County Public Library:
- (0.44 mi) Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel
- (0.20 mi) Lorraine Motor Hotel
- (0.43 mi) Homewood Suites by Hilton Toledo Downtown
- (0.05 mi) EZ Check-in and Check-Out, Perfect for a Night Downtown!
- (0.05 mi) Perfect downtown apartment for short and long-term stays!
- Restaurants near Toledo-Lucas County Public Library:
- (0.02 mi) Lowrider Cafe
- (0.05 mi) Le Pam Pam Pizza & Subs
- (0.16 mi) Fowl & Fodder Downtown
- (0.16 mi) Wesley's Bar & Grill
- (0.18 mi) Adam's St. Cafe