Check Out a Good Book & More at the Avondale, Arizona Public Libraries

With so many local budget cuts many public libraries have cut back on hours or shut their doors completely. But this is not the case in Avondale, Arizona, which boasts two newer and well equipped public libraries.

According to a world library directory, lib-web-cats, the Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library in Avondale, contains over 40,000 volumes of books and media. The library serves a population of about 60,000 people and handles over 140,000 transactions per year! Who says that libraries are not used or are not important? Yes, the internet provides much needed information, but the public library is still a strong institution with a wealth of knowledge behind its doors!

It is amazing what services the public libraries in Avondale have to offer. Both of the public libraries in Avondale are equipped with computers and internet service. Use of the computers is free and can be used on a first come first served basis. I found this service very helpful when my internet connection at home was being repaired for over a week. The libraries also have many programs and events taking place through out the year, such as summer reading programs for children, story time and writing contests. The library also offers online research and foreign language classes. The Civic Center library location even has a deli! Visit their website at http://www.librarydeli.com/. Senior services are offered where by the library will deliver books and media to nursing homes, home bound patrons and residential facilities for free.

Library cards are free for Maricopa County residents. All you need to get your free library card is a picture ID and proof of current address such as a utility bill with your address on it. You must have your library card with you when checking out library materials. Most items are checked out for 2 weeks some items can be checked out for 3 weeks. The reference books can not be checked out; they are for in library use only. The library also offers interlibrary loans. If the Avondale library does not have the book or media that you need you can put in a request for an interlibrary loan from another library. These interlibrary loans are for 2 weeks.

I realize as we are in the middle of the technology age that more and more people are using the internet for research and e-books are becoming more and more popular. But for me, I am a person who needs to hold a real book in my hand while I read, especially for pleasure. I also am on a limited budget that does not allow me to buy a new or used book every time I want to read. The library is still a wonderful treasure trove of great books to borrow, enjoy and then return for the next person to do the same!

Locations of the Avondale Public Libraries

Sam Garcia Western Avenue Library
495 E. Western Avenue
Avondale, AZ 85323
623-333-BOOK (2665)

Avondale Civic Center Library
11350 W. Civic Center Drive
Avondale, AZ 8532

623-333-2602

Library Hours:
Monday -Thursday 10 - 7 pm
Friday - Saturday 10 - 5 pm
Sunday Closed
Avondale Public Library Website:
http://www.ci.avondale.az.us

Sources:

http://www.librarytechnology.org/lwc-displaylibrary.pl?RC=14751
http://www.ci.avondale.az.us/index.aspx?NID=26
My own experience