The Baton Rouge Main Library Goodwood is a prominent public library located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, serving as the main branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library system. Situated in the heart of the city, this library has been a cornerstone of the community, providing a wide range of services, programs, and resources to patrons of all ages. With its rich history, extensive collections, and commitment to innovation, the Baton Rouge Main Library Goodwood is an exemplary model of a modern public library.
History and Architecture
The Baton Rouge Main Library Goodwood has a fascinating history that dates back to the early 20th century. The library was first established in 1939, and over the years, it has undergone several transformations to accommodate the growing needs of the community. The current building, which was completed in 2002, boasts a stunning architectural design that blends modern elements with traditional Louisiana style. The library’s interior features a spacious atrium, comfortable reading areas, and state-of-the-art technology, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages learning, exploration, and relaxation.
Collection and Services
The Baton Rouge Main Library Goodwood is home to an extensive collection of over 500,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and CDs. The library’s collection is carefully curated to cater to diverse interests and age groups, with a strong focus on Louisiana history, culture, and literature. In addition to its physical collection, the library offers a wide range of services, including free Wi-Fi, computer access, printing and scanning, and interlibrary loan services. Patrons can also access digital resources, such as online databases, e-books, and streaming services, from the comfort of their own homes.
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 350,000 |
| Audiobooks | 20,000 |
| E-books | 50,000 |
| DVDs | 10,000 |
| CDs | 5,000 |
Programs and Events
The Baton Rouge Main Library Goodwood offers a diverse range of programs and events for adults, children, and teens, designed to promote literacy, lifelong learning, and community engagement. From author readings and book clubs to children’s storytime and teen gaming tournaments, the library’s programs cater to various interests and age groups. The library also partners with local organizations and businesses to host events, such as job fairs, health workshops, and cultural festivals, which foster a sense of community and social connection.
Children’s Services
The library’s children’s section is a vibrant and interactive space, featuring a large collection of children’s books, puzzles, games, and educational toys. The library offers regular storytime sessions, craft workshops, and other activities designed to promote early literacy and a love of reading among children. The library’s summer reading program is a popular initiative that encourages children to read during the summer months, with rewards and prizes for participating children.
- Storytime sessions for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
- Children's book clubs and reading groups
- Craft workshops and art classes
- Summer reading program with rewards and prizes
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Does the library offer free Wi-Fi and computer access?
+Yes, the library offers free Wi-Fi and computer access to all patrons. Computers are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and patrons can also bring their own devices to access the library’s Wi-Fi network.
Can I access the library’s digital resources from home?
+Yes, the library offers a range of digital resources, including e-books, online databases, and streaming services, which can be accessed from home using a library card and PIN. Patrons can visit the library’s website to explore these resources and learn more about how to access them.
