Beautiful interior and impressive architecture. A ...

Beautiful interior and impressive architecture. A city institution. Shame about the Security staff who believe they work for the TSA. I've been to Heathrow post terrorism events and have had better treatment (not to make light of situation). You can understand the aims of airport security and the aviation laws however the staff at the library today couldn't cohesively explain the protocols or reason for the bag checks. She even said 'it saves time,' and I told her one would argue it would cost more time for the average visitor. I even suggested prevention of theft as an inadequate reason to feel like a suspect. Especially since they don't check the contents of your oversized items before they're secured in the (albeit reasonably priced) lockers anyway. Do they have infrared scanners, or is that coming out of next year's budget? Ladies, anything smaller than a laptop bag is OK (upon searching the contents), however bucket bags or shopping bags are not.
Snarkiness over. There is a popular cafe upon entry, a gift shop with what seems to be quality items and clean restroom facilities.
I am a regular at my local library and think I'll continue to go there instead. Whilst their Reference section is non-existent and they have barely-functioning wifi, you CAN take food and drink in, there are NO bag restrictions and your visit doesn't come with the feeling like you were an errant child. I think it would have been more palatable if it didn't feel like they were reprimanding you. Seems like a common theme in the reviews. Still, it's worth a visit. Just leave your nail clippers, aerosol cans and liquids over 100ml at home.