[Jason4225]

I'm moving to Omaha next month and was wondering if I could get feedback about the libraries in Omaha. I know there are many locations, but is there much difference between them? I enjoy taking my kids (ages 2 and 4). I will be around 114th and Dodge, but it doesn't have to be around there.

[kdbrich]

we have libraries?

[buffy888]

The only 2 I visited regularly were Swanson (90th and Dodge) and Abrahams (approx. 90th and Fort). Neither of them was very close to my house, but I volunteered at the Humane Society, so they were both near to that. I preferred Abrahams, but I don't know if I can pinpoint a particular reason. For the children's section, I actually found the one at Swanson easier to navigate when I was taking a children's lit class - the books seemed to be fairly well alphabetized, while at Abrahams things were sometimes more of a hodge-podge. I don't know if that's true all of the time or if it just happened to take place whenever I was trying to get the books I needed.

One thing I love about the Omaha Public Library system in general is that you can place holds on books online - you are then notified either by phone or e-mail when the book is available for you to pick it up at your selected branch. This is helpful because the Main Library downtown has a plethora of books not available at the other branches, so if you don't want to drive downtown just to check it out, you can reserve it and pick it up at your own library. You can return your books at any library branch. Also, I don't know if all of the branches have it, but at least some branches do have self-checkout. If you are in a hurry and there is a long line at the circulation desk, self-checkout can be a timesaver.

Swanson does have good used book sales, but they are quite crowded (the children's section can become especially crowded), so you have to figure out the best timing.

Sorry I don't know more about the other branches. Good luck with the move.

[yman97]

I prefer the main library downtown for a couple of different reasons. One, it has the largest selection by far. It's four or five stories high, I believe. They even have a closed off genealogy section if you're into it. Next, it's close to the Old Market so its nice to be able to grab a drink, eat dinner or take a walk in one of the parks if you have the time.

I've been to the one on 90th and Fort as well and it's mediocre. It's a newer building but I don't like the layout. I can't recall being to any of the other libraries other than the one at UNO.

[Jason4225]

Thanks, I'll have to check a few out. I would like to check out the geneaology section at the main branch. My great aunt did a family tree that went waayyyy back. I think the last person was someone who received their land from Moses (I'd have to look to be sure). She spent her life doing this work and it is really interesting. It is on a piece of paper about 20 inches high and it rolls out to be about 25 feet long.

[billiefan2000]

I have been to all of them except for 3:

the one at 30th and ames

the one near Omaha South High School

and the one in Elkhorn





the one at 90th and fort is my fav

not as busy, except on sunday's


the one in Benson is always busy, just like downtown's but since I live closer to it than 90th and fort's

I am there at that one more often that at 90th and fort's





swanson at 90th and dodge

I like, but the staff charges you 3 bucks to use headphones (no other library does that)




the one at 44th and center is older looking and is okay





plus it is near the 15 and 55 mat buses and a few blocks from a Burger King and Subway sandwich shop and a Hy-Vee and a place called GORAT'S


the one near Cici's Pizza on 48th and Dodge, I know is closed for a while but I hope it looks better than it did look, when they re-open it

[Jason4225]

Thanks for the reply. I am moving in the next few weeks and I will take a look around at that time.

[billiefan2000]

Originally Posted by Jason4225

Thanks for the reply. I am moving in the next few weeks and I will take a look around at that time.

youre welcome


and let us know which ones are good or bad in your opinion

[billiefan2000]

anyone know when the 48th and dodge area library is reopening?

[Stacy From Cali]

Do you mean the A. V. Sorensen library at 48th and Cass? According to the library website they are up and running right now.

Hours: Tue, Thur 10 am – 8 pm
Wed, Fri, Sat 10 am – 6 pm

I usually go to the Willa Cather branch on Center and 44th and I think that its a hole. I love libraries, but this one appears to be too small to meet the needs of the neighborhood (ie never any open parking, seating or computers). Plus its dark and dank. I agree that the one downtown is great, but make sure to bring change for parking unless its a weekend.

The LaVista public library is gorgeous and they have toddler storytime. Its at Giles and 84th street.

Children's Programs