Webster Library | Manhattan, NY

I enjoy coming here and spend quite a bit of time in the space. The staff is friendly, and it's a nice place to relax or get some work done. However, there are a few areas that could be improved. On hot days, the air conditioning doesn't seem to keep up very well. Today (June 10th), the fan wasn't running, and the air felt heavy and stuffy, making the space less comfortable than usual. The tables could also use more frequent cleaning. They are sometimes greasy or sticky, which isn't very pleasant when eating or working. More tables and chairs would be a great addition. Many customers place their bags on empty chairs, making seating limited during busy times. It can also get quite noisy from the children's activities downstairs, which can be challenging for those using the space to study, read, or work remotely. Lastly, many people come here to work on their computers, but several tables wobble when writing or typing, which can be distracting. Overall, I like this place and will continue coming back. With a few improvements to comfort, cleanliness, and seating, it could be an even better experience for everyone.

Posted on: June 10, 2026

The librarians here are helpful and sweet. It’s a convenient location, has a nice kids section with tables and chairs, it’s easy to reserve and pick up holds, and you can renew multiple times. You can check out up to 50 books at a time! For a while this location was grab n go so it’s nice to finally be able to browse and sit. Also helps that it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible. (Ramp leading to entrance and elevator inside.)

Posted on: September 26, 2021

Webster Library is a wonderful neighborhood resource. It’s great place to browse and see the staff recommendations for books. My favorite thing is being able to request materials online and be notified when they’re ready for pick-up. The staff is friendly and helpful.

Posted on: October 27, 2023

I recently visited this library and want to share both the positives and the challenges I experienced. The library itself is wonderful—well-maintained, thoughtfully designed, and led by a manager who is genuinely helpful, talented, and kind. I really appreciated their approach. Unfortunately, my experience with the staff on the ground was very different. We arrived just one minute late to a storytelling session, and despite having traveled a long distance with my baby, the female staff member refused to let us in due to what she described as “strict policies.” While I understand that rules exist, the way they were communicated felt extremely rigid and lacking any human understanding or compassion. It was disappointing to be spoken to in such an uptight, robotic manner, especially when all we needed was a small accommodation for a short, half-hour children’s event. Because of this, I would caution others not to expect much flexibility or warmth from some members of the staff. It’s a lovely library, but the experience could be so much better if the frontline staff were more empathetic and willing to consider individual circumstances.

Posted on: November 19, 2025

Love this library, so thankful for the resources offered here and also the incredibly kind and helpful staff. The librarians are super helpful and always warm and welcoming...

Posted on: October 20, 2025