Queens Public Library at Steinway | Queens, NY

I came here on a Tuesday with the intention of getting the “Freedom to Read” special edition library card. I arrived at 5:47pm (they close at 6pm on Tuesdays). I asked the “librarian” twiddling her thumbs at the first desk closest to the main entrance doors if I could get the library card. She said it was too late, that they were closed. I told her there was still 13 minutes til closing. And she said they stop issuing library cards at 5:45pm. I asked, “Is this policy on the website?” And she just simply shrugged and said, “It’s the policy of all libraries.” Then I asked her, “Ok so what time do you guys start issuing cards?” - as I didn’t want to come back just for her to say it wasn’t time yet for them to start issuing cards - and she said as soon as they open. Then I asked if they still had the Freedom to Read cards, and she let out a deep sigh as she begrudgingly slid her chair backward, reached over to a drawer to take a look, and said, “Yep, we got “em.” Mind you, the whole time we were having this convo, she could’ve issued me the card, a task that takes 2 minutes. I returned on a Thursday, this time making sure I spoke with a different librarian. I was wrong, the task doesn’t take 2 minutes - it took literally 1 minute for the different librarian to process my request.

Posted on: May 14, 2026

The library itself is small and well stocked. The environment is noisy at all times that I have visited. Kids running amok, people taking calls in the library reading/study section. The librarians and other employees do not care at all about the noise levels or disruption caused. They barely carry out their jobs as is, and when asked to enforce any of the rules relating to noise, they seem dumbfounded. It makes sense, as they contribute half the noise with their incessant talking amongst themselves. This is supposed to be a relatively quiet place, yet it is far from it. What should be a sanctuary for focus and reflection has instead become a free-for-all, where respect for shared space is completely absent. The staff’s indifference only reinforces the chaos, creating an environment that feels more like a bustling café than a library. Patrons who come to read, study, or simply find a moment of peace are left frustrated and unheard. The irony is painful: a place dedicated to knowledge and contemplation is undermined by a lack of discipline and care from those entrusted to uphold it. The only one who seems to care is a diminutive blonde woman, who makes small but earnest efforts to restore some order. Unfortunately, her attempts are drowned out—both literally and figuratively—by her boisterous and overwhelming colleagues. Her quiet diligence is a rare glimmer of what the library could be, but it is smothered by the noise, negligence, and complacency surrounding her.

Posted on: September 06, 2025

The staff is generally nice except for one woman called Mala! Horrible. I asked politely if she wouldn't hover over me while I was on the computer and she started yelling at me. Inexcusable

Posted on: December 23, 2025

This Queens Library branch in the Steinway subsection within Astoria, Queens, NY is a good place that is 11 blocks away from my old apartment, where I formerly live. Now since I've moved out of Astoria, Queens, NY this past late March of the year of 2026, I could sometimes visit there whenever I want.

Posted on: April 29, 2026

Great library with excellent resources for kids! However, I am quite concerned about Ms. Joyce, the librarian, and her behavior towards the children. She tends to lash out for no reason. Today, she spoke very harshly to my 2-year-old, despite my child not doing anything wrong. I would advise parents to be cautious about her interactions with their kids, as her temperament can be unpredictable. She scares me, much less for a younger child.

Posted on: August 08, 2025