Alderney Gate Public Library

I love books. I would read all day if I could! As such, I am rather fond of libraries. The Alderney Gate library is probably my favorite of the many within the HRM. Here’s why:
— Two floors of literary goodness, which means a massive selection of everything.
— Plenty of computers.
— All the children’s stock is upstairs, which means that adults can browse in relative peace and quiet downstairs (huge plus for me).
— Loads of toys, games, and play areas upstairs for the kids.
— Lots and lots of windows.
— Knowledgeable staff.
There is but one negative attribute to this library: it is really, really difficult to get into unless you are walking or busing it. The parking lot is almost always filled to the brim (the ferry terminal is in the same building), and getting to the library from the rear entrance is a huge hassle.
Aside from the parking, the Alderney Gate library is one of HRM’s truly fantastic features.

Real talk: since the invention of the internet and Kindle app, I visit libraries very, very, very rarely. Like, long enough in between visits that I just get a new membership card each time. You do the math.
But as far as our local libraries go, I really do like this big olé beauty in Alderney Landing. It gets all the gorgeous light from the Halifax harbour and the two-​floor layout keeps you from feeling cramped or boxed in. In fact, there are lots of relaxing little areas around if you want to crack open a book during your visit.
Bonus points for friendly staff who know that place inside out. When it doubt, leave your search to the professionals.

Last time I was there I told them what I thought their motto should be: We know where it, s at! Well they DO! Enough said.
G

Very good library to take ur kids, good size play area with Puppets, Lego and A magnet wall.2^nd floor is for the kids and first floor is mainly for teens and Adults. first floor also has a computer room and lots of another computers in main floor area.

I LOVE this library, two floors of booky-​goodness and lots of large windows to let in light. Not to mention there’s quite a few computers for public use.
The library is kept well clean and it’s very well organized (I mean, libraries are supposed to be, right?). Books are easy to find if you know which author you want and the genre. If not you can ask one of the knowledgeable staff or check on a computer.
There’s also free wifi if you just need a quite place to do some work. Make sure you have your library card though as you’ll need it to access the wifi and the computers.
I have had problems with books not being marked as returned when I did drop them off but I sent an e-​mail online and they were always happy to help.

I’ve had a long love affair with the Alderney Gate library. When I lived in Mount Uniacke, I would pass the Sackville and Bedford libraries, to come here.
What’s to love? Uh, two floors of bibliographic brilliance and cool community spaces.
Let’s start with the main floor. You’ve got DVDs as an ‘impulse buy’ right there. A well-​staffed information desk. Loads of computers. Specialty displays. Lots of comfy chairs to sit and read.
The second floor has books for kids and teens. Plus lots of community rooms where cool events are held.
My only complaint? While it’s great that teens feel welcome, they can be a bit boisterous and staff don’t seem inclined to quiet them.
The Alderney Gate Library is an essential (and under-​valued) part of our community.

I’m a fan of libraries in general, and I can find something to like about all the branches in HRM, but Alderney Gate is probably my favourite free-​book spot. The location is great if you live in old Dartmouth or use Metro Transit, and with the ferry right there you can sail over from downtown Halifax, or spend some time perusing the stacks while you wait for bus or boat.
It’s a great library for a few reasons: the large windows let in light, and there are multiple cozy chairs just made for reading and people watching. They have a good selection of periodicals (that’s librarian-​ese for «magazines») and the space to host numerous community and cultural events. I saw a fantastic (and free!) Flamenco show there last fall, and they have twice-​yearly book sales with piles o’ reading material at rock-​bottom prices.
If it’s raining, you can stroll from the library to multiple shops, restaurants and even catch some theatre without venturing outside, and if the weather is fair, you can amble down the waterfront walkway and maybe even take a turn on the playground slide!