East Lake Community Library, Palm Harbor FL

Update: I went over all their heads and the fees were forgiven. Apparently, higher ups are aware that this library staff has ongoing issues treating patrons poorly. Borrowers beware.

The staff is a bit condescending and childish. I was unhappy with the kids area librarian's approach on late charges and she made it a point to call and stress to the front desk not to help me. The lady at the desk laughed uncomfortably on the phone. She was the only one who seemed friendly. I returned a children's tablet 4 days late and they attempted to charge me a $8 fee even though all Pinellas libraries did away with late fines over two years ago. They are the exception apparently and pointed it out in a contract I signed. The contract highlighted a breakdown for costs if damaged and no where did I expect to see or believe late charges would be mentioned or applied. I was under the impression ALL Pinellas libraries did away with late fees for overdue materials. This being my first time returning an item of theirs late and not clearly understanding they were some sort of exception to the rule and can collect late fees, they chose instead to make a big deal of it in front of my child. This is a community library to which I already pay taxes for and they were the least bit understanding. I have not left my house in over a week because my child was sick. I had heard they were rude here and now I understand why. Your job is to help serve the community not patronize them. The supervisor didn't seem to know what the contract entailed to begin with but upon collecting it she was suddenly the expert on rules. Her demeanor was very condescending. She was committed to not listening. I would stay away as they do not appear to care at all but about being right and petty. I spent money on used books totaling over $30 my first two visits and I even donated to their food pantry today. This will be my last visit however. I never had such a poor experience at any other library.

A wonderful library that is small but mighty. Plenty of programs for all ages and interests. Lots of volunteering opportunities also! Great place to get bright futures hours or help the community.

They have cheap notary services as well, only $8 per stamp. The library also has tech support and tech help every day!

Well, I was excited to come in and open a library card to bring my 2-and-a-half year-old son to check out books as he grows older. Instead, the grouchy and miserable old lady named Sue/Susan at the front desk instead decided to demand I provide a utility bill to prove my license was me, because she didn’t think it was. I’m 33, and have never been questioned as hard trying to buy alcohol. Needless to say, I will never patronize this library ever again.

The ELCL is an outstanding value for our area. The library staff, building and collection is spot on and I would encourage folks of all ages to access the library to enhance their lives!
Maureen Skipper

The East Lake Community Library staff is always helpful and super friendly. It is a great environment to be in!

Great library run by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are also a pleasure to work with!

Great little library with very friendly staff and lots of activities for all ages. They have plenty of books, audio books, and DVDs to choose from and they are connected with the PPLC (Pinellas Public Library Cooperative) so you can access items from other connected libraries! So convenient! Great children’s area, computer center, and teen club room. One of the coolest services is their Gizmos and Gadgets program—you can borrow a wide variety of things from a pickle ball set to a stand mixer—so cool

Nice and quiet every time I've been here. People are always very helpful and friendly.

Favorite library! Helpful staff! Always find hidden treasures in the Book Nook book store!

Coming in for the first time, I had mixed feelings initially based off of the reviews, shortly after I arrived I then noticed that plenty of those angry people in the reviews didn’t even have the information necessary to fulfill their requests. I Had no trouble transferring my Pasco county library card to the Pinellas county systems after providing, All LEGAL REQUIREMENTS (i.e photo ID, and PROOF OF ADRESS, etc.) of course… It took me about 10 stress free minutes to get everything set back up and there was no trouble! I checked my books out and went on with my day!
10/10

This is a small library in the heart of Eastlake, surrounded by schools. What a great location for a library and a great, friendly staff!

The best library I've ever been to. They have fast free internet, a library of things like GoPros and podcast mics to check out, and you can have other libraries in the county ship their materials here instead of driving all the way down county. I have Dunedin library ship their videogames here and pick them up. They also have cheap printing, scanning, and a teen room where teens can print for free and play Xbox Series X and PC games for free. They also have free programs for all age groups and free museum passes. Oh and there's a free food pantry outside that's open 24/7.

I love this small community library. Nice space, friendly librarians and volunteers.
Lot of interesting programs.

The staff here are wonderful. They will help you find what you are looking for, and suggest reading for you in the genre you love.

Staff is consistently both helpful and pleasant. A great place to pick up a small gift basket, a piecee of jewelry, or a used book or dvd.