Norman Public Library, The, Norman

It used to be a great place to use the internet and check out books, but in the last 2 years, there are police and ambulance called there 3 + times a week, and last week a man was tasered outside the main door resisting arrest. There have always been homeless people at libraries, but it makes a more unsafe environment for kids and they're sleeping in all the chairs. The cell phone policy is never enforced, and neither is the unattended children rule (it used to be). Some parents are dropping off literally 5-10 of their kids all at once as a free daycare. I can't even think or read in there with all the cell phone noise and kids running around asking me for change in spanish. I don't care if this review gets deleted, but I live a block away and have sadly seen the library and Andrew's Park deteriorate into an uncomfortable atmosphere. Won't someone do something to save our library?

The Norman Public Library really has the feel of a community center. The children's library has the most wonderful and welcoming librarians, great storytimes, and other activities. I've been going regularly since my 6 year old was a baby, and I've found great activities for him at each age from baby story time, toddler story time, preschool story time, and now the After School Special. There are lots of fun toys for little ones and, of course, lots of books. My least favorite section is the computer section (though the kids love it). It can be hard to get my four year old to concentrate on something other than the computers. On the other hand, I know many for whom the computers are a plus. My 64 year old mother has made use of the free computer classes for adults, as well as other programs. They've also got lecture and discussion series, and book clubs. The Norman Public Library is one of my favorite places in Norman!

We go all the time it's so much fun for the kids. I have a 2 year old and he is happy there for hours. Lots of toys to play with. Great stortimes and activities. Also they have a few pets for the kids to look at.