Place to get lost in a book

Shorewood Public Library

It is easy to forget where you are when you are engrossed in a good book at the Shorewood Public Library, 3920 N. Murray Ave., 21,000 square feet of space that opened in 2002.

“We have this spanking new beautiful building,” says Beth Carey, library director. “It’s very comfy inside, with lots of comfy furniture in lots of sizes.”

The new library is three times the size of the old one, and the collection, 49,000 items, is larger too. Shorewood’s library has plenty of public spaces, including reading lounges for children and adults.

“There are quiet little bay windows,” Carey says, that just call out for curling up with a good book.

Besides that, the library has a friendly and helpful staff, and hours to fit into anyone’s schedule. The library is open 9:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.

“You’re even welcome to bring in something to drink as long as it’s covered,” Carey says.