King County  Library System - Bothell Regional Library

 

468

330

Don L.

Kirkland, WA

6/9/2008

*WARNING: SAPPY REVIEW AHEAD! PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK!"

I grew up in a library. No, seriously. I was what was termed a "latchkey kid" (WTF?) growing up in the 80's, and so often would have time after school to kill (this later led to ummm....adventures of questionable design). I digress. My brother and I would often bike or bus down to our nearby library, and spend literally HOURS there reading. I *LOVED* to read, and it was a great way to kill an hour or three while avoiding being in trouble at home (for a little while at least). And then I grew up.

Many years later, I find myself once again spending time in the libraries, now to introduce my little ones to  a system that helped me expand my horizons, learn about different cultures and ideas, and even escape reality for a while.

This library - within walking distance from my place - is smaller than some, but still has almost every resource you might want. I quickly lost track of time as I lost myself perusing the wonders of the library. Some things have changed since I was that boy - long dead is the Dewey Decimal system (remember having to learn THAT in school?!) and now the barcode reigns supreme. New books nestled in among older, less-used tomes, and governing it all is the gleaming mainframe system. Where old micro-fiche machines lined up, now banks of computers await the curious, and you can even check out laptops to use (there IS still one old micro-fiche machine way in the back!). As I explored the back walls, I found cabinets full of all kinds of maps..whether to plan that next backwoods adventure, or to see another country. I browsed through the stacks, smiling at the display shelves neatly tucked in amongst the books, and appreciated the helpful "If you enjoyed such and such author, you might also like..." signs sprinkled about.

I loved the musty smell in the place, the sunlight streaming in through the upper windows making the dust particles glinting...I fully expected to see characters from my long-ago imagination lifting from the books and moving through the rows with me. Sprinkled throughout the library are strategically placed couches, comfy lounge chairs, and the muted sounds of students collaborating on their projects. I realized that I'd just killed 2 hours exploring, and I realized how much I loved - and miss - going to the library. As much as I am glad that my kids are starting to love going there to peruse the exploits of Curious George and the kids' computers...I'm glad that I've been reacquainted with an old familiar friend.

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Elite '09

208

477

Julia Z.

Bellevue, WA

6/6/2006 1 photo

The reading programs for kids here are excellent, and the staff picks and new-book displays are also really good. But the librarians don't shush people in this library, and as a result, it's more like a Barnes & Noble (which are too LOUD) than a proper library (which should be a quiet place to read and think). I've taken away a star because of the non-hushed ambiance.

Otherwise, it's the standard well-thought-out King County Library of the newer type -- think high ceilings, lots of light, modern architecture. I wish they were open more hours.

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Elite '09

130

401

Carrie H.

Seattle, WA

4/25/2007

I got snickers and laughs from the libarians here.  

Years ago I went to the King County library in Fairwood in Renton and had a late fee.  It was about 8 years ago, and didn't find out that I had a fee until a few weeks before I went to this library.  I cleaned out my purse and found the King County library card which was odd because I now live in Seattle and frequent the SPL.  I went online to King County Library system and found I had a late fee.  Being a good humanitarian, I thought I'd pay it.

I go in to pay my 3 bucks and change to the King County Library in Bothell.  They say, "I can't find when you checked out the book that was late."  I explain that the fine is 8 years old and felt like paying everything up.  Haven't you seen that Seinfeld episode where they came after him for a late fee that was 20-30 years old??

She tells her co-worker that I am paying a late fee that is 8 years old.  They have a good laugh at my expense, take my money and go.

Ha.

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23

96

Benni M.

Redmond, WA

8/15/2007

This is one of the area's best libraries. It has plenty of books, enough computers to serve everyone and plenty of classes and events. The staff is friendly and does not shush you, or glare at you if you talk. It says nice and quiet, I have yet to hear a screaming kid.

I like that they have wifi as well as other fun things for teens. Usually educational services skip over the teen age group and give us nothing good. I even see kids playing their Nintendo DS's on the wifi connection as well as getting some books.

There is a read 3 books, get one free for ages 12-18 where teens can get a good book. Not just a cheapo book or a kiddy book either, a popular series most of the time too.

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2

9

H. L.

Bothell, WA

10/21/2008

This is indeed a very nice facility. I grew up using the Bothell Library before and after the new building as well.  The program and services that they offer are a lot better than some of the other libraries nearby.

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