Patrick Beaver Memorial Library

I went by the Patrick Beaver Memorial Library yesterday to check out a book that I had on hold. I noticed that several things had changed, and not for the better.
I totally agree with William’s review. I saw several transients asleep in the library, both at tables and in reading areas. I found this very disappointing. It never used to be this way.
I tried to see if a copy of the book that I was checking out was also available on DVD, but the computers were so glacially slow that it was practically impossible to check the item’s status. Later, at home, I found out that the DVD was six weeks overdue to be returned. Sheesh!
I have already noted in a previous review that the men’s restroom is equivalent to some bad truck stop bathrooms. It gives me the heebie-​jeebies every time that I go in there, so I avoid this restroom unless its an emergency. Cleaning service, maybe?
Approaching and leaving the library, I noticed several unsavory people just hanging outside the front of the building. I did not personally witness any drug deals go down, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this was the reason that these people were there. There were several transients both inside and outside of the property. Why is this allowed?
In the past, Hickory PD used to keep an officer stationed at this location. I think that it is high time that they do so again. This is Hickory’s main library, and as a taxpayer I’m sad to see that the place has become a magnet for the unwashed and unlawful. Hickory residents deserve better!
I don’t discriminate against those less fortunate people in our society, but I don’t think that a public library full of children is an appropriate place for transients to camp out and sleep. I don’t care if they have a library card or not… this needs to stop — NOW!
Hopefully someone will wake up and take the appropriate steps to safeguard this refuge of knowledge and community treasure.

Nothing but a haven for homeless people and drug dealers. Witnessed 3 drug transactions. Reported one of the tranactuons to lady at front counter… she said «oh» and that was the extent of her concern. Afro-​Americans begging for cash and cigarettes outside. Homeless people sleeping while seated at tables or in chairs. Entryway smells like urine. Law enforcement presence needed in area.