How would you rewrite this para to make it more articulate?

[umerislam]

Yesterday, I went to our town’s central library for the first time. I was hoping to see an old building like other similar buildings in the city, but to my surprise it turned out to be a good mixture of old and new architecture. The entrance is through sliding doors leading into a large reception hall. Besides main reception the hall also has a dedicated play area with books and toys for young children. Before taking escalators to the upper floors, I inquired with one of the receptionists if I needed to obtain membership before browsing books. The receptionist confirmed that membership is only required for borrowing books.

[umerislam]

Thanks Gil. I always get the definite article wrong no matter how much I try otherwise. Its a curse, believe me.

Actually, I am hoping that someone rewrites this para (perhaps completely) to make it a bit more interesting to read.