Despite current uncertainties over its future financing, possible divisions among County Commissioners and contentious board meetings, libraries around northern Nevada remain a sanctuary for those who spend time there, from families getting books, to those attending special events, to adults passing time or looking for new opportunities.
At the heart of Reno, the Downtown library stands out with its cool, magical, plant filled interior space. There are regular gatherings such as Dungeons and Dragon meetups and adulting 101, with special activities having taken place during Spring Break, including a magic gathering camp.
There’s many resources for those in need, from computers, to housing kiosks, workspace areas and obviously plenty of books.
On another side of town, the Northwest Reno Library near McQueen High School has toys, a playhouse, and a nicely delineated spot for children to learn and play.
Bob Brackett likes that it’s open seven days a week. He appreciates having a space to quietly read the news and business publications like the Barron’s magazine.
Situated in the Reno Town Mall, Sierra View Library is a hidden gem that offers similar resources. Not only can locals hang out or read here, they can also visit nearby stores such as Nevada Marketplace which sells products all made in the Silver State. The small waterfall decoration inside and its antique looking interior design definitely pleases the eyes right before entering the library.
Recently a self-described traveling tradesman Julio was there hanging out while looking for other jobs.
“I am here to chill out. I am a traveling tradesman,” he said. “I am waiting to basically catch a job in my trade but while I am doing that, I am researching something I have been interested in while I am at it.”
The level of our library system’s budget for the next fiscal year is now in the hands of our commissioners, with discussions starting in April, after voters narrowly decided to stop a direct assessed property value funding mechanism. That money, about $4.5 million, or a quarter of the system’s yearly budget, is now going to the county’s general fund instead, with County commissioners in charge of how to spend it.