Ottawa Public Library - Alta Vista

The staff here are very helpful. Their computers and check-out systems are up to date. There are two ways into the parking lot and one way to exit. They can use more parking.
8 years ago (09-02-2018)

Great local library to bring your children and enjoy a couple of hours while they read and colour. They are usually on their game when it comes to reservations of anything you placed an order for online.
9 years ago (27-09-2017)

Love this branch for it's children's programming & Children's Librarians. As well as quiet spots to work with reliable internet. However, branch management is more interested in making their yearly budgets. "Branch Coordinator", Evelyn Housch, insists on charging toddlers for board books that last a year longer than the branch's average lifespan for similar materials. The book we borrowed our toddler only opened once and the spine fell apart. We honestly brought it back to the front desk and Evelyn charged us. That was even after she researched how old the book was. This is despite finding other books on the shelves at Alta Vista and other branches covered in crayon or taped back together by users before they were returned. Sad that Evelyn doesn't believe in honesty. We even pointed this out to her in person and via Library Board Member, and yet she refused to apologize. Heard multiple times from respected librarians within the system that this encounter doesn't adhere to the customer service training provided by the Ottawa Public Library system. Also spoke with a 20+ year Nursery School veteran who thought being charged was preposterous. She loves having to repair books at her school as it shows the children enjoy them. In fact the nursery school has a pair of parent who volunteer to repair the school's books. Next time we'll just return the book through the system so we don't get billed for our honesty. If branch management won't adhere to policy & procedures, we'll gladly go elsewhere. So borrow materials at your own risk! With the above, please don't donate to Alta Vista branch. They don't deserve support as branch management, lead by Evelyn, is very strict on the rules despite extenuating circumstances (e.g. age of material, expected users, etc.) and customer service training saying otherwise. Wish to donate? Please go elsewhere, we have. Finally, Branch also has weird Friday hours (opens at 1 pm!) and closed on Sundays year round.
9 years ago (19-09-2017)

Librarians are very helpful and sweet. They have a good selection of French and English kids/baby books.
9 years ago (01-10-2017)

It's really good and peaceful environment 👍
9 years ago (18-10-2017)