Manly Library

Dale Avramidis 3 months ago

Good space, unfortunately the aircon is so cold on Level 1 you cannot focus on your work. Staff mentioned it has been brought to their attention for 3 years, no one seems to bother to fix it. A shame as I saw multiple people leave and not come back for that reason.

Heike R Edited 3 months ago

24/7 access is a valuable option. Unfortunately, the study area on L1 is consistently freezing cold. Library staff mentioned that this issue has been raised with management, but no action has been taken, which is disappointing. Particularly during the colder months, this will hinder the success of new initiatives that make the facilities more accessible. *Note: I edited this review down to 1 star as I noticed anything above doesn't seem to be worth an answer. So in an attempt to encourage any action on this (given there are many many others who have complained about the same issue), this is another attempt to make it known. I was advised by staff that they have raised the issue for 3 years. Might be worth resolving. Otherwise this could be a very good place to go to.

Mitchell J 4 months ago

A good library with an impressive range of books. It’s let down by the unbearable noise of children and the unfortunate positioning of a children’s play section right next to fiction. It’s almost impossible to concentrate when browsing. At least there is a quiet area on the second level. The problem here really lies with parents who give no consideration to others and allow their children to scream their heads off.

Alec Gatrell 5 months ago

Zero flexibility and a complete lack of community support I am beyond disappointed with the treatment I received at Manly Library today. I arrived exactly 90 seconds late for a 20-minute induction for 24/7 access, an induction that only had one other person in it, and was flatly refused entry. As a local resident and ratepayer, I made significant personal arrangements to be there, including coordinating care for my two-year-old son so my wife and I could make the timing work. To be turned away over a minute and a half of tardiness isn't about "policy"; it’s a blatant power trip. Instead of showing a shred of community spirit or simply catching me up at the end, the staff chose to be rigid and self-righteous. It’s a sad reflection of council workers who seem more interested in exercising minor authority than actually serving the families who fund their positions. If you’re looking for a library that actually cares about the "public" in public service, look elsewhere. Absolute peak bureaucracy and laziness.

Valerie Jacquard 5 years ago

A free service provided by the council which is awesome. The staff is very nice. Many services are offered. The app is very useful and makes your life easier to renew, pre book or find a book. You can find books but also magazines, audio book, CD and DVD. New books are quite sparse and not many best sellers.