Situated along Winnetka Avenue for nearly 40 years, the Golden Valley Library is one of 41 in the Hennepin County Library System. Librarians say most of the people who check out materials at this location generally reserve them online -- where patrons have access to more than 5 million books, CDs, DVDs, electronic resources, and other items in more than 40 languages -- but there are still plenty of other reasons to step into the building. Examples include art exhibits featuring work from local students, poetry slams and classes that teach seniors how to use the internet.

The Golden Valley Library also has a high percentage of volunteers who assist with children's programs and provide other valuable support for library staff members.