North Side Library - Des Moines, Iowa

Introduction

The North Side Library, situated at 3516 5th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, United States, is a vital community hub that serves the residents of Des Moines' North Side neighborhood. This public library, operated by the Des Moines Public Library (DMPL) system, offers a comprehensive range of services and resources to patrons of all ages.

Main Services

• Books and Media: The library boasts an extensive collection of books, eBooks, eAudiobooks, eMagazines, and eNewspapers. Patrons can browse, borrow, and renew materials using their library card.
• Programs and Events: North Side Library hosts a variety of programs and events for all ages, including storytimes, author talks, workshops, and cultural events. Some popular programs include:
  • Baby & Toddler Storytime (0-2 years)
  • Preschool Storytime (3-5 years)
  • After-School Program (K-5th grade)
  • Teen Programs (6th-12th grade)
  • Adult Programs (18+ years)
• Research Assistance: Librarians are available to assist patrons with research queries, providing access to databases, reference materials, and interlibrary loan services.
• Community Resources: The library connects patrons with community resources, such as job search assistance, resume help, language learning tools, and digital literacy classes.
• Study Rooms and Meeting Spaces: North Side Library offers study rooms and meeting spaces that can be reserved by patrons for free, fostering collaboration and learning.

Location and Access

The library is conveniently located in the North Side neighborhood, close to various schools, businesses, and residential areas. It is easily accessible by both public transportation and private vehicles.

• Public Transportation: Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) buses serve the library, with the nearest bus stop being 5th Ave & Grand Ave.
• Parking: The library offers a dedicated, wheelchair-accessible parking lot at the rear of the building, providing ample space for patrons.

Featured Characteristics

North Side Library is designed to be an inclusive and welcoming space for all patrons. Some of its standout features include:

• Architectural Accessibility: The library is fully wheelchair-accessible, with automatic doors, wide aisles, and an elevator for easy navigation.
• Public Computers and Wi-Fi: Patrons can access free public computers, printers, and copiers, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout the building.
• Outdoor Space: The library features an outdoor reading garden, providing a serene space for patrons to enjoy books and nature.

Practical Information

• Address: 3516 5th Ave, Des Moines, IA 50313, United States
• Phone: 5152834152
• Website: dmpl.org
• Hours of Operation:
  • Monday - Thursday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Friday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
• Payment Methods: The library accepts debit cards and credit cards for fines and fees, as well as cash and checks.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

North Side Library has accumulated 67 reviews on Google My Business, with an average rating of 4.7/5. Patrons have praised the library for various aspects, including:

• Children's Programs: Many reviewers appreciate the engaging and educational children's programs, with one parent mentioning, "The kids enjoyed [the painting activity], and it was nice to have something to do with the kids and get out of the house."
• Staff Assistance: Several patrons commend the helpful and knowledgeable staff, with one reviewer noting, "The women are very helpful. They answered all my questions. They downloaded a document from my phone & printed it off for me."
• Convenient Location and Parking: Patrons appreciate the library's convenient location and ample, wheelchair-accessible parking, as mentioned by one reviewer: "Easy returns and nice library. Ample parking in rear as well."
• Comprehensive Services: One patron highlighted the library's comprehensive services, stating, "They had everything I needed that other libraries I've gone to wouldn't."

👍 Reviews of North Side Library

Danielle O.

5/5

It was our first visit for the painting activity. The kids enjoyed it, and it was nice to have something to do with the kids and get out of the house.

Adam B.

5/5

They had everything I needed that other libraries I've gone to wouldn't.

Guin B.

5/5

Easy returns and nice library. Ample parking in rear as well.

NJ G.

5/5

The women are very helpful. The answered all my questions. They down loaded a document from my phone & printed off for me.

Robert C. E.

4/5

Very busy, for a Library, on any day but as I think it, Mondays on generally busy. Plenty of salt was heard under my feet. My friend inside, explained that walking near the building was best for the little dog we had in tote. The property had little trash too. VERY CLEAN. There was a small tree cutter on the property next door. Also, there was busy people will vehicle hoods up. Saw a couple of young kids, paired with what I assumed was their completed homework. A middle aged and older single came out a few moments apart. BUSY PLACE. As a single middle age man walking a small hairless coat dog in need of his jacket. Choke collar was off, jacket in the vehicle, and we were waiting for the photocopying to end. As the whimpering started, no salt on our feet, it was time to stuff the envelopes. Easy in and out. GREAT EXPERIENCE.

Genesis T.

5/5

A really great library to go to! Especially when I live near it so its super easy to get books I want to read. The staff are really friendly and always greet you when they can. 🙂

Tonya M.

5/5

The kids love the scavenger hunts and have even started looking on their own instead of just asking where the items are, dont get me wrong they still ask but the 1st time the librarian basically walked with them and pointed out the items and now they go look and only ask if they have looked EVERYWHERE! (AND IT IS NOT HERE! [Stomp, snort])

Jess W.

5/5

Great story time! The Librarians are all so helpful! The Northside Library has been a great resource to ready my daughter for kindergarten!