First-Time Dispensary Visit Guide
Visiting a cannabis dispensary for the first time? We've got you covered! This complete guide walks you through everything you need to know before, during, and after your first visit to The Library in West Orange, NJ.
Last Updated: November 9, 2025
Quick Checklist: First-Time Visit
- ✅Age Requirement: Be 21+ years old
- ✅Bring Valid ID: Government-issued photo ID
- ✅Bring Payment: Cash or debit card
- ✅No Medical Card Needed: The Library is recreational
- ✅Plan Questions: Think about what you want (relaxation, sleep, energy, etc.)
Before You Visit
1. Confirm You Meet the Requirements
Age:
You must be 21 years or older to visit a recreational cannabis dispensary in New Jersey. There are no exceptions to this rule.
Valid ID Required:
Bring one of the following government-issued photo IDs:
- Driver's license (any US state)
- Passport (US or international)
- State-issued ID card
- Military ID
Note: Your ID must be current and not expired. Digital IDs on your phone are NOT accepted under NJ regulations.
No Medical Card Needed:
The Library is a recreational dispensary. You don't need a medical marijuana card or doctor's prescription to shop with us.
2. Bring the Right Payment
Accepted Payment Methods:
- Cash (most common)
- Debit Cards (PIN required)
ATM Available:
We have an ATM on-site if you need cash.
How Much Should I Bring?
For a first-time visit, budget $30-$100 depending on what you want to try:
- Pre-roll: $10-$20
- Eighth of flower (3.5g): $40-$60
- Pack of edibles (10 gummies): $20-$35
- Vape cartridge: $40-$70
What to Expect When You Arrive
Step 1: Check-In
Enter the Dispensary:
Walk through our Washington Street entrance (wheelchair accessible). You'll be greeted by our staff.
Show Your ID:
Present your government-issued ID at the check-in desk. Our staff will verify you're 21+ and that your ID is valid.
ID Privacy:
We do NOT keep a database of customer names or IDs. Your ID is only checked for age verification, not stored.
Step 2: Browse & Learn
We have digital menus and printed menus showing our current inventory, prices, and THC/CBD percentages.
Ask Questions:
Our budtenders are here to help! Don't be shy—ask about product recommendations, differences between products, dosing guidance, how to consume products, and effects you can expect.
Common First-Timer Questions:
- "What's the difference between indica and sativa?"
- "How much should I take if I'm new to cannabis?"
- "Which edible is best for sleep?"
- "How do I use a vape cartridge?"
- "What's a good starter strain?"
Step 3: Make Your Selection
Start Low, Go Slow: If you're new to cannabis, we recommend:
- Flower: 10-15% THC strains (not 25-30%!)
- Edibles: 5mg THC per dose (not 50mg or 100mg)
- Vapes: Start with a few small puffs, wait 15 mins
Step 4: Complete Your Purchase
The budtender will confirm your selections and total price (including NJ cannabis tax). Pay with cash or debit card.
Your products will be in sealed, child-resistant packaging as required by NJ law. Keep them in this packaging for storage.
Safety & Responsible Use
#1 Rule for Beginners: Start Low, Go Slow
Less is more. You can always consume more, but you can't un-consume.
Recommended Starting Doses
- Flower: 1-2 small puffs of 10-15% THC strain
- Edibles: 5mg THC (WAIT 2 hours before more)
- Vapes: 1 small puff
What If I Take Too Much?
- Stay Calm (it's temporary)
- Drink Water
- Eat a Snack
- Rest in a safe place
- Wait It Out (2-6 hours)
FAQs for First-Timers
Will I get "too high" on my first try?
Not if you start with a low dose and go slow. Follow our recommendations (5mg edibles, 1-2 puffs of flower) and wait to feel effects before consuming more.
What if I don't feel anything?
Some first-time users don't feel strong effects. This is normal. Try a slightly higher dose next time, or try a different consumption method.
Can I bring a friend who's under 21?
No. Only people 21+ can enter the dispensary.
How long will my first visit take?
Typically 10-20 minutes (depending on how many questions you have and wait time).
About This Guide
This first-time visitor guide was created by The Library's team based on common questions from new customers and best practices for visiting a cannabis dispensary. Information is based on:
- Feedback from first-time customers at The Library
- NJ Cannabis Regulatory Commission consumer guidelines
- Cannabis industry best practices for customer education
Last Updated: November 9, 2025
Ready to Visit?
📍 The Library
5 Washington Street, West Orange, NJ 07052
📞 (862) 786-0886