Libbie Mill - Henrico County Public Library - Richmond, Virginia

Introduction

The Libbie Mill - Henrico County Public Library, located at 2100 Libbie Lake East Street in the Libbie-Grove neighborhood of Richmond, Virginia, is a modern and inviting public library that serves the community with a wide range of services. This 50,000 square-foot facility is one of the most environmentally friendly libraries in the state, earning a LEED Gold certification for its sustainable design and features.

Main Services

• Books & Media: The library offers a vast collection of books, audiobooks, e-books, and other media for all ages. Patrons can browse, borrow, and request materials through the online catalog.
• Research & Learning: The library provides access to various research databases, online resources, and reference materials to support patrons' learning and research needs. They also offer research assistance and programs for students and adults.
• Events & Classes: Libbie Mill Library hosts a diverse range of events and classes, including storytimes, author talks, book clubs, workshops, and educational programs for both children and adults. Their event calendar is regularly updated and can be found on their website.
• Digital Media Lab: This state-of-the-art lab offers patrons access to cutting-edge technology for creative projects, including video editing, graphic design, and 3D printing. Equipment and software training sessions are also available.
• Children's Services: The library has dedicated areas for children's and teens' collections, as well as a Children's Reading Garden. They offer storytimes, crafts, and other activities tailored to young patrons.
• Heritage Wall: The Heritage Wall is an interactive touchscreen display that showcases local history, culture, and events. It serves as a digital archive of Henrico County's rich past.

Location and Access

The Libbie Mill Library is situated near the intersection of Libbie Lake East Street and West Broad Street, close to the Libbie-Grove shopping center. It is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available in the adjacent lot. Public transportation is also an option, with several GRTC bus routes serving nearby stops.

• Address: 2100 Libbie Lake East Street, Richmond, VA 23230
• Phone: 804-501-1940
• Website: henricolibrary.org

Featured Characteristics

The Libbie Mill Library boasts several unique features that enhance the user experience and contribute to its environmentally friendly design:

• Green Roof: The library's expansive green roof helps to insulate the building, reducing energy consumption and mitigating the urban heat island effect. It also provides a habitat for local wildlife and contributes to stormwater management.
• Solar Panels: The library generates renewable energy through its array of rooftop solar panels, further reducing its carbon footprint.
• Natural Light: Large windows and skylights allow for abundant natural light, reducing the need for electric lighting and creating a bright, inviting atmosphere.
• Energy-efficient Design: The library's energy-efficient design includes features such as automated lighting controls, occupancy sensors, and high-performance HVAC systems, all of which help to minimize energy usage.

Practical Information

Libbie Mill Library offers various amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient visit:

• Accessibility: The library is fully wheelchair-accessible, with features such as automatic doors, accessible restrooms, and an elevator.
• Public Computers: Patrons have access to numerous public-use computers, tablets, and Wi-Fi for browsing, printing, and other tasks. Assistive technology, such as magnifiers and adaptive mice, is also available.
• Meeting Rooms: The library offers meeting rooms and study spaces that can be reserved for group use, as well as quiet study areas for individual work.
• Payment Methods: The library accepts various payment methods, including cash, check, credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover), debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.
• Changing Tables: The library has changing tables available in the restrooms for families with young children.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 297 reviews on Google My Business, Libbie Mill Library consistently receives praise for its modern design, cleanliness, and excellent customer service. Some of the most frequently mentioned positive aspects include:

• Impressive architecture and visually appealing interior
• Spacious and well-organized layout, with plenty of seating and study areas
• Extensive collection of books and resources, including children's and teens' sections
• Friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful staff
• Variety of events, classes, and programs for all ages
• Accessible location, ample parking, and convenient facilities

One reviewer, who visited the library for a special teen activity, commented, "Beautiful library with so many modern touches. We don't live in the area but decided to come here one evening for a special teen activity. The art auction activity was fun, and the comedic banter between the librarians and the teens was delightful." This positive feedback highlights the library's engaging and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its commitment to hosting enjoyable and educational events for the community.

Another aspect that sets Libbie Mill Library apart is its dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Many reviewers appreciate the library's eco-friendly features and the efforts made to minimize its environmental impact. One patron noted, "This is an amazing library with a stunning green roof. The entire building is a testament to sustainability and forward thinking."

In conclusion, the Libbie Mill - Henrico County Public Library is a state-of-the-art, environmentally conscious facility that offers a wide range of services and resources to the Richmond community. Its modern design, extensive collections, and commitment to customer service have earned it high praise from patrons, making it a valued and beloved institution in the Libbie-Grove neighborhood and beyond.

👍 Reviews of Libbie Mill - Henrico County Public Library

Satori P.

5/5

Beautiful library with so many modern touches. We don't live in the area but decided to come here one evening for a special teen activity. The art auction activity was fun, comedic and really thoughtfully planned. We had so much fun! It was not what we expected and we were so pleasantly surprised. The staff was amazing, the facility was clean, there is ample parking and the kids felt safe participating in the event. We will definitely come back! Thank you for being a great community library!

Michael O.

4/5

Great space, I love going over there. It’s quiet it lets me think. The only downside is the library selection is OK. It’s kind of small. The amount of content that they have on the web makes up for it. You can get any number of great books Digitally.

Ü L.

5/5

It's a great library. There's plenty parking. The library is spacious and bright. Librarians were very nice and professional. The restrooms were well maintained. The children's area was big. I love all the cool places that could turn into reading stations.

R P.

1/5

I used to love this library, then I tried to report a child welfare incident. Apparently trying to keep children safe makes the staff uncomfortable. I've been back a few times, but the more regular staff members refuse to acknowledge me now. I am not sorry, and I won't go back.

Al T.

5/5

The library is a nice facility. The staff is helpful and willing to take the time to answer questions. I sometimes refer to the library as "the igloo" because it gets chilly in there after awhile.

Norm

5/5

Simply awesome place and location. Have no regrets with deal the developer offered us for our house for this facility to be brought to completion. We moved a block away and our kids are there almost daily when not at Baseball games at Bethlehem Little League.

Update 2-8-2022: They have reopened after the pandemic scare and follow safe distancing. Just a great location for a library and we are so near still wonderful place.

Update 11-21-2022: the staff are awesome, so many programs and learning opportunities available. They have a wonderful 3d printer (minimal cost) for your needs right outside the computer learning center.

Update 3-16-2023: very busy today they have many programs going on. They have adequate staff it appears and the computers are very busy.

Update 8-33-2023: lots of kids activities today. Normal patrons also. Staff very busy.

Update 10-27-2023: They are having graduation photos taken, there is a function out back by the lake. Lots of library users. Very busy.

Alicia M.

5/5

As you’d expect from a Henrico library, this location is great! Love to go here during my lunch break to relax and work on writing projects. Also, the outdoor area behind the library is amazing!

Jane W.

5/5

Thoroughly modern facility, accessible from Staples Mill Rd. or Libbie Ave., in the center of the Libbie Mill development. Not as many physical books and magazines, as it's designed for the tech age/digital era. Includes: street-curb parking spots in addition to parking lot areas; outdoor benches; entrances on opposite sides of the building (facing N/S); multiple floors w/stairs & escalator; lots of seating areas with outlets to recharge devices; computers for public use; free wifi. Advice: It's quieter away from young childrens' area. Stop and admire the views from the tall glass windows!

Satori P.

5/5

Beautiful library with so many modern touches. We don't live in the area but decided to come here one evening for a special teen activity. The art auction activity was fun, comedic and really thoughtfully planned. We had so much fun! It was not what we expected and we were so pleasantly surprised. The staff was amazing, the facility was clean, there is ample parking and the kids felt safe participating in the event. We will definitely come back! Thank you for being a great community library!

Michael O.

4/5

Great space, I love going over there. It’s quiet it lets me think. The only downside is the library selection is OK. It’s kind of small. The amount of content that they have on the web makes up for it. You can get any number of great books Digitally.

Ü L.

5/5

It's a great library. There's plenty parking. The library is spacious and bright. Librarians were very nice and professional. The restrooms were well maintained. The children's area was big. I love all the cool places that could turn into reading stations.

Randy F.

4/5

Like this library alot. The stuff are very helpful. Also great helpful with computer problem. Also the area with the lake is beautiful. The only downside to me are the chairs.. To me every chair in there are very uncomfortable. They are horriable.

R P.

1/5

I used to love this library, then I tried to report a child welfare incident. Apparently trying to keep children safe makes the staff uncomfortable. I've been back a few times, but the more regular staff members refuse to acknowledge me now. I am not sorry, and I won't go back.