Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Public Library NOT FREE anymore?

I have been touring the public libraries in Montreal areas. I found out that all the libraries are NOT connected to each other. In other words, if you live in a different town, even though it might be only five minutes away from the next town, you will have to get different library card to use the library.

Ile des Soeurs Public Library: It is a French-speaking library. You can get a library card for free if you are the resident of Ile des soeurs. However, if you want to check out the new books, you have to pay $3.00 per item!

Atwater Public Library - it is a English speaking library. The books are old but well-organized. If you want a library card, you have to pay an annual fee. Plus, if you need to use the Internet, you have to pay a fee as well. Of course, you also have to pay for the printing. Everything is fee-based. And you cannot even use the bathroom if you are not the member of the library. ("sigh")

Westmount Public Library - it was established in 1899. It is said that it is the most popular public library in town. The building is very impressive - it is a "castle"! It is located at the edge of the Westmount Park. Beautiful! You do not have to pay a fee for a library card. If you bring your laptop, you can use the wireless for FREE! But the connection is extremely slow.

All the public libraries do not access to the university library's site! The access is very limited.

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