I think this trip epitomized more than most how I never know what delightful experiences I’m going to have when I visit a new library! Chris joined me for trip number 14 – visits to the Woodmont and Des Moines libraries, both located in Des Moines.
My last-minute-morning-of map printing troubles non-withstanding, we easily found the Woodmont branch as it is conveniently located off the Pacific Highway in south Des Moines. “Jewel of a building” is something I’ve heard a lot when this building is mentioned, and it’s so very true! The library was expanded and renovated in 2008 and like most recent libraries has plenty of natural light and soaring ceilings. Rachel, the Teen Librarian, was kind enough to spend a few minutes with us before we looked around. A recent Alice in Wonderland party with film viewing was a success and the weekly Game On series continuously proves popular with visiting teens at Woodmont.
As Chris and I wandered around admiring some of the artwork, I saw a familiar face – Xiomara, the Spanish Story Time storyteller that Doris and I were so enthralled with when we visited the Kent library! (Yikes, three months ago now!) With smiles all around, we chatted with her for a few minutes. Woodmont is one of the 6 KCLS libraries that she visits.
As we parted from Xiomara, a patron at a terminal next to what appeared to be lockers, caught our eye. The 
patron scanned her card, scanned a DVD case, and out popped the disc from the machine! Automated DVD checkout! KCLS is piloting this system, by Integrated Technology Group, at Woodmont. Heather, another KCLS staff member, showed us how the system worked from a librarian’s perspective. I’ll be interested to see how the pilot turns out!
We took the scenic route to the Des Moines branch, along Marine Drive that gave us views of the Puget Sound. And fittingly, as we got out of the car, we could smell the “sea air”. Outside of the library building, there is a wonderful sculpture of a turtle, with a relief map of Puget Sound carved in its shell. Since it was raining, water was filling the map, and it was quite neat.
Once inside, we were lucky enough to receive a library tour from Pauline, the Cluster Manager. Also renovated in 2008, this library contains an abundance of natural light (of course!) and has a children’s area that seems to take up much of the library. There was much discussion on how awesome and popular the Caspar Babypants programs are for children. Now, I really want him to visit a library that’s still on my list!
We took our leave from the Des Moines branch and headed just a few minutes away to lunch at Wally’s Chowder Broiler House. Sadly, the weather was not cooperating and we didn’t get to dine on their patio. However, my fish and. . .onion rings. . .were delicious, our server was super friendly, and the conversation was lively. There’s too many books to recommend and discuss over one short lunch!
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