What a gem! This historic and architecturally stunning library is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates beautiful details and community spaces. From the moment you walk in, you're surrounded by gorgeous stained glass windows and thoughtful touches everywhere you look. There are several inviting reading and learning rooms, plus a dedicated children's section that's perfect for little ones. Outside, there's a small but lovely garden with plenty of seating; ideal for enjoying a book on a nice day. I especially loved discovering the board where anyone can post a book review. It's a great way to engage with fellow readers and get new recommendations. My husband and I make it a point to support local businesses and community resources when we travel; signing up for a library card and following their event calendar is one way we connect with each new place. This library is truly a treasure, and we highly recommend stopping by whether you're a resident or just passing through! read more

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When I wrote my last post about this library, it was after a few times coming here that within a couple of weeks that the loud talking inside had gotten to me. However, the individuals who work here are so helpful and kind! And, I do really love the building! I still come back to get away and complete some work but I bring headphones now and it does help. I wrote this cause I felt bad for the last post I had written. read more

I love love love this library! The staff are friendly, plenty of tables and chairs, and they have a children section too! I ended up walking out with a new library card! They offer different events, make sure to check out their websites and Instagram! I appreciate the people here, the building, and the architecture. It reminds me of the Harry Potter world and I even found Dobby inside! read more

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Beautiful library. Historic library. The bottom is a little older but they get the job done. I just borrow and when I was in school I would love to Come here to study. read more

The library is pretty nice and has plenty of space to do work or homework. However, from my own personal experience, there were several times when the wifi does not connect. I've used different laptops, thinking it was my personal one that was having issues, but I faced the same issue of sometimes having the wifi connect or running into "no connection". I escalated the issue to the front desk clerk numerous times, explaining the issue, and they responded that it sometimes happens depending on the laptop. If this is a recurring issue that other patrons have presented, it is rather disappointing that there has been no action. I would suggest having IT be present or train the clerks on how to resolve the issue, rather than continuously brushing it off. Overall, I really do enjoy the space and believe it is a wonderful addition to Redlands. I just hope they are able to resolve the wifi connection because it can be rather frustrating. read more

Great place to study or work in a nice clean cool environment, the interior is beautiful and I love looking at the outside greenery. There is a tiny little garden, sitting there basking in the sun almost feels surreal. This Redlands public library was built 1898, which is a long time ago, but the building still holds steady and beautiful. It's located right next to Redlands Bowl and Lincoln Memorial Shrine, which you can swing by and check out too. I have come here multiple times with my boyfriend or other friends, and each time, it has provided exactly the space we need to focus on our research/question bank. read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

This library was a lifesaver for some work tasks I needed to get done! The staff upfront was nice and welcoming, the library itself was clean and peaceful, and the building with cathedral ceilings was just gorgeous! This is a beautiful stop with lots of options for working or study spaces to choose from. And, from what I could also observe, an expansive selection of literature. I really enjoyed my time here and was able to get lots of work done during my visit due to the great conditions and quiet, safe space. read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

This library is not very big, but it is cozy and quaint. They have cool things for children(children's library) and teenagers(underground).

Amazing atmosphere, a great place to get work done, and beautiful architecture throughout the building.

One of the most beautiful libraries I have ever been inside. The facade gets your attention with its Moorish Revival style. I don't live in Redlands, but I love libraries and since I was in the area I couldn't help to check it out and boy I am glad! I wish I had more time to spend inside! The decor is pretty, its windows are one of a kind. I felt envy for the folks reading in this beautiful spaces. The place is big, great selection for books, nice librarians and very peaceful. You felt like you were stepping in a different time period! The grounds are picturesque as well. If you live here, I hope you frequent it, if you visit the area, like I did, check it out! It's a paradise for bookworms! read more

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Ambience: Richness of historically meaningful structures and architecture (and basement stuff) in this space makes for a magical trek nerds like me should all experience. Super exhilarating history in every corner here. Service: Can't express how absolutely amazing these Librarians and staff have been to all folks Ive seen coming through the joint. Ive asked all kinds of geeky questions and have never encountered anyone giving me the lackadaisical regimen. Food: Only brain food here and it's delicious. Sincere. Engaging. Open. Active. Honest. These Smiley people are beautiful human beings that know and understand the vital virtues we are trying to preserve for ALL. Keep giving us this delicious stuff, Smiley!!! read more

Not only is this place beautiful......but the kids love it.... Lots of areas for children and plenty of places for adults too....I just love the kids area.....the littles reading area... so cute.... I didn't go inside today but have been inside other times....always friendly... always welcome...... read more

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Only go to visit knowing this Gothic Victorian building is the exception not the rule for libraries and going to others after a visit here may be a bit disappointing. I grew up in Redlands and loved getting to go to the library when I got the chance. This library is that of dreams with beautiful marble floors, multiple floors of books, and so many areas to sit and enjoy the selections. I always love to visit this place when I'm in town. It has a huge selection. If you don't live in the area l, it costs $30 (cash or check) a year but I'm happy to pay to support this beautiful place. I will say my last visit the wifi was very hit or miss, so if you need a good signal suggest finding a spot in the reference area. read more

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This review is long overdue. Just a gem of a library; organized, clean, stunning grounds and friendly staff. We support our local library! Our thanks go out to all who put effort in keeping this place immaculate in every little way. Creativity (as proven by the PISA exam;)) is the key to success, and reading helps the mind stay creative! read more

LOVE THE SMILEY LIBRARY! People are kind here and the library is beautiful. I really like going to their little bookstore too :)

Amazing library with something for everyone! Cool place to hang out, even if you're just visiting!

It was my first visit at AK Smiley Public Library. I was able to find immediate parking in front. I was amazed at the beautiful architecture of the library. It looked like a vintage home that was converted into a library. Lately, I've been visiting local libraries and admiring them, then getting a library card to be able to utilize their vast amounts of books. However, when I wanted to get a library card from Smiley, to my astonishment, they asked me to pay $30 for a years worth of membership for the card. Are you serious? Why? Because I don't live in Redlands. The librarian told me it's because the residents of Redlands pay for city taxes for the upkeep of the library, so they get a free library card. Therefore non-residents like myself must pay for a library card at a public library. The idea of public to me, means this should be available for everyone, not just a certain group of people. I had to brush away the exclusiveness of their choices. Yet, this didn't deter me from walking around to admire the beautiful stained glass windows, artistry of the ceilings and the overwhelming feeling that you've walked back into the past. I love history and to see the history of Redlands library is astounding. I wished more cities preserved their library as well as Redlands did. If you have free time to wander over to this library, do so, but be prepared to pay $30 if you want a library card. read more

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A dated-looking library, but has its "vintage" charm. It has a lot of seating and I particularly like the area where there's ample natural light coming in. My fiancé and I come to explore Redlands sometimes and if we have work to do, we'll hunker down for a couple hours here. Parking has never been an issue on the street. read more

Had an opportunity to explore the beautiful A.K. Smiley Library in Redlands yesterday and had a great visit to this local treasure and National Historical Landmark! The libraries spring blooms and trees were adding to the fine spring day-really worth a visit!The library has gardens, several floors,a childrens library,special collections,various areas throughout to do research,study,read,a coffee serving area downstairs and there's wifi as well! Sparkling clean,family friendly, free parking and the staff is so pleasant and helpful-a real gem in our community! . . . . #aksmileylibrary #redlandslandmarks #seetheusa #360photography #ricohthetaz1 #godisgood #smiley #redlands #californiadreamin #californiadreaming #familyfun #visitredlands #visityourlibrary #wifi #coffee #waynesalvatti #photografxworldwide #californiagold ##photography #specialcollections read more

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my favorite library ever!! super nice staff, organized, quiet, good selection of books, beautiful building & garden, love everything!! read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

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This is a great library to check out. It's value is in borrowing from a plethora of books, periodicals, media such as audio materials, movies, and video games. You can do historical researches, they have a great collection in their heritage room. You will find other info of local civic activities, pamphlets. Plus they have a book auction biweekly, a conference room, friends of library bookstore downstairs, and a young adults book section and study area. Plenty of tables and chairs, nooks, desks are available to sit down at and two outdoor gardens. Plus, they are part of the Smiley Park Historic District which includes and are very close by, the Redlands Bowl amphitheater, the Lincoln Memorial Shrine, and the Smiley Park. You are walking distance from downtown. read more

Beautiful, historic building, friendly helpful staff. Collection could be more extensive, but, hey, it's not a university library.

Nice quiet place to do homework. The chairs are very loud and creaky but it's an old place. I like coming here, it's so beautiful. Lots of character. read more

Naturally, I'd give this library 5 stars for the architecture and history behind it alone, but they're many aspects that are responsible for earning such a high review --for starters, they have such a wide variety of books and movies to choose from, which is greatly appreciated, and they implement safety the best that they can, requiring everyone to wear a mask indoors during their visit. It's normally a relaxing environment to be in, which is why I always choose to come here to study. The only reason I'm giving the three star, however, is because today, on 2/13/22, it was everything but quiet; the woman at the front desk who was wearing a black long-sleeved sweater with a blue-printed shirt underneath kept yapping away to a younger man working next to her. Of course, talking to co-workers can be considered part of the job, but little to none of this talk was work-related and it was rather loud chatting. For a long while, she kept saying that she wanted the library to close at 3:30 p.m., and semi-complaining how they aren't closed on Super Bowl Sunday. Like, listen, lady, no one wants to spend their weekends at work, but you legit have the chillest job in a beautiful building/city. Not to mention, you work at a library, where people are trying to read, write, and concentrate --just because you're bored doesn't mean other people are. The only complaint I have with this place is the loudness of the staff at times; it's best not to stay near the main entrance because you will not be able to focus. read more

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I love the bookstore and the friendly staff they have. Every time I go I have a wonderful experience, and the books are cheap, I will continue to recommend this library and bookstore to all my bookworm friends. read more

I absolutely love this library! I could spend all day here! The children's section is great and their weekly story times are so much fun!

Beautiful building! Great Library with an excellent staff! Daniel in circulation is incredible!

3.5/5! I get it it's the summer and people are trying to escape the heat. But this is not a zoo or the mall. Some people actually care to study here. Children are yelling and laughing- just having a grand old time while parents can't control them. Phone calls are taking in the study area without any regards. It's not a real library vibe! Ive noticed at certain hours usually after 3pm it dies down and you can get in some quiet time of studying/reading done. read more

The A.K. Smiley Public Library is one of the most iconic and pleasant places in Redlands. The architecture is beautiful, the facilities are well kept, and the grounds are immaculate. The catalogue isn't the most extensive, but it's not bad considering the small size of the library. Owing to the Young Readers' Room, I know a lot of kids in Redlands whose favorite place is the library. It's a uniquely interesting environment with a passionate staff that works to engage children through all stages of development. The programs and events they put easily top my list as the No. 1 reason Redlands in an amazing place to raise a child. The less-than-perfect score is due to a few unfriendly employees (most are great though) and the fact that cards aren't free (or less expensive) to non-residents. read more

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We came to Redlands for a Saturday brunch and auspiciously also happened to hit the open house for Redlands' Library Days 2013 at their most gorgeous, historic library. I am talking about A.K Smilley Public Library. It was kind of sneaking into a great party, uninvited. But we were all welcomed. Not that I should be surprised, but downtown Redlands has always had a special aura about it, such pride, such beauty in such an old, charming town. We spent several hours roaming about the library, admiring the gorgeous turn of the century architecture, the magnificient ceilings, tilework on the floor, lovely stained glass windows, the nooks and crannies that served as quiet reading rooms, and the patio and the well kept grounds. They had a back room set up with folding chairs and a movie screen for us to sit through several documentaries that were not only informative about Redlands and the citrus industry but also embarrassingly 1960-ish (did we really dress and sound that way?). And in gracious tradition, they served freshly popped popcorn and bottled water. Today it was all free. Out behind the library on the cool, shaded lawn was a small, costumed, 19th century band playing traditional band music under the old established trees and volunteers wandering in period costumes There were tables set up with gently used books for sale. The most expensive book cost us a whopping $4. We were even able to wander into the Lincoln Memorial museum, built in the 1930's, located just beyond the grassy expanses. Not sure if it's being open was an anomaly, but it was open, and admission was free. A must see, there are costumes, pictures with extensive text, and artifacts representing the Civil War, Lincoln memorabilia, film documentaries, all displayed beautifully. I dont know how they do it, but apparently the library is open 7 days a week (that is not true in my hometown of Corona). They fund raise by doing silent book auctions, and other book sales through their Friends of the Library room. Inside, we saw bags full of books sitting on the floor, obviously donated by locals and supporters, ready to be put on their shelves for sale. And we were happy to oblige by buying some great books for our almost toddler grandson. That makes us all happy. We had a great visit and would highly recommend you all stopping by to see what a REAL turn of the century library, still operating, is like. read more

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I love libraries with charm!! The architecture inside is so cute. There are plenty of places to study at on the first floor. The children's area is equally as adorable with stained glass with scenes from children's books. The downstairs also has a few tables/study corrals, as well as a place to buy "coffee" (aka coffee from a Kurieg machine), but it was kind of creepy down there. read more

I don't mind the mask policy guidelines that they are following at all, but I am very bothered by the way they talk to library visitors if their mask is below their nose. I go here to study, and I just saw one of the librarians rudely talk to a man that had his nose poking out of his mask.... unnecessary and shouldn't be tolerated. read more

What an amazing library! Its so beautiful on the inside, and it's a great place to study and get work done at. I came to do my homework here and I'm happy to say the place sets up a nice productive space. It's beautiful and silent, but there's a bell that rings every 15 minutes here. read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Kids Reading Room - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

An amazing Library with beautiful architecture and surrounding parks. As long as they can keep the hobos from passing on the entrance, there's no way it cannot be 5 stars read more

What a beautiful library! The design of the architecture reminds me of a building you would find at Balboa Park in San Diego/Victorian style/old European. There was actually a couple outside getting married. Parking is limited to just a few spots in the front (3 hour max except Sundays). Otherwise you'll have to park on the street. The staff is friendly and there are plenty of tables & plugs to sit down with your laptop and get some work done. If you're in the area and need a decent place to study, I highly recommend coming here. read more

Amazing Library...... Open 7 days a week. You Must check it out!! When you leave you will feel like you took a awesome field trip. Leaving in awe.... Hope I made you curious! :) read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Beautiful library - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

I drove from LA to this library to do genealogical research on my great-grandfather who died in Redlands, after working as a miner in the San Bernardino Mountains. I had hoped that I would find information I was looking for, but ,wow, I was surprisingly delighted by the Spanish style architecture and decor. It was built around the time my great-grandfather lived in the area. So the trip to Redlands, with its old time Americana feel, and the library's beautiful historic design, helped me imagine the town when my great-grandfather was there. Best of all, the VERY helpful library historian pulled my great-grandfather's death records. From her astute eye, she then gleaned enough information to lead me to so much more about my family I had never known. I, and my family, are so grateful for her help. read more

AK Smiley Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Redlands, California

Such a beautiful library. I love the silent auction. You can get old books, new books, nonfiction, fiction, kids' books, DVDs, VHSs, etc all through it for great bargains. Weekly silent auctions end Tuesday at 1pm. Also, on the first Saturday of every month, there's a book sale in the downstairs bookstore where you can fill up a whole bag for $6 (nonmembers)! read more

This is my favorite library in the I.E. I love the architecture of the building. It gives it so much character and life. My favorite spot to read is foyer where you can see the garden outside. There's also outlets if you need to charge your phone or want to use your laptop. It's the perfect library spot for serenity. read more

Unexpectedly cute gem with vaulted ceilings and stained glass. Using red sandstone blocks, the small main library was about the only thing red that we found in Redlands. The Lincoln Memorial Shrine (see www.yelp.com/biz/lincoln-memorial-shrine-redlands) located behind the library was an added bonus. The Shrine is a specialized wing of the library with Civil War related books to borrow and artifacts from Lincoln's day. For fans of Norman Rockwell, a large oil painting is on display. Allow 15 minutes visit. read more