I've been to a lot of public libraries and Ephrata Public Library has to be on of the worst. I say this for a couple of reasons.
First off, the parking situation here is horrible. If you don't arrive first thing in the morning it's impossible to find parking.
The selection of materials here is mediocre. Materials that are considered alternative or out of the mainstream cannot be found here. I was doing research for on world religions and alternative spiritual beliefs I could find virtually nothing at this library. When I asked about this, the staff person I spoke to seemed almost offended and replied "we don't offer that kind of material at our library". Some might consider this censorship.
This library is also the noisiest library I've ever been to. It's impossible to read quietly here. Staff does nothing to enforce or encourage a quiet space. People often play videos in the computer section section without earphones and loud conversations take place constantly. Again, staff here does nothing to foster a quiet space.
There is inadequate seating space at this library to work or read. The little space there is often taken up by patrons laying on the couches or taken up by screaming children.
Do yourself a favor, pass on Ephrata Public Library.
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