I attended a Paint a Tote Bag Class. It was my first class ever at the library. We used paint pens to design whatever we wanted to make on the bag. The facilitator provided the pens and templates that you could use to make designs on the tote. It was nice to meet other people from the community and the ambiance was fun and relaxed. I made a bag with flowers on it and a saying, "You're Doing Great Sweetie!" Because one of my coworkers tells me that all the time like a half joke/half serious. Sometimes you gotta get through the day. I gave the bag to said coworker, which made us both laugh. Hope you try out a class at the library! It's a lot of fun and you just have to sign up on line! Enjoy the photo! read more

Alafaya Branch - Orange County Library System - Paint Pens make it easy to decorate a bag. - Libraries Near Me - Orlando, Florida

I visit this location to get books for my classroom. For my purpose, the selection is better than some other nearish branches. The check out kiosks are convenient and easy to use. I appreciate all the classes and special events that are offered by OCLS. I have taken their online Spanish classes in the past, and it was enjoyably useful. Getting virtual books via the Libby app is another advantage to having a library card. There are some books available for sale here. You can't beat 25 cent books! I may have a bit of an addiction. read more

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Love their toddler times on Fridays and the kids area. Kids computers are out of order a lot but I don't miss them (my kids would disagree). I appreciate their binder of subjects with lists of books making it very easy to find books about your child's interest (for example, airplanes). read more

This is a good library, with friendly people, and clean. I never come and sit down here because there aren't any private areas. I do not think that periodicals are available, or magazines. There is a room for instruction, there may be two actually but I am not sure. This is a small place, so not much is available. The CD and DVD collection are quite large, I guess people still use that type of media. There are computers available for internet browsing or job hunting, and printers also. I mainly use the library system and order online for books to be delivered here. This is not a quick process, but it is free to residents of Orange County. I could write a review for the OCLS, which would get poor ratings and that doesn't belong here, but it is enough to mention that OCLS is deficient in many areas, specially the book buying program. read more

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This library is a good option for any library needs. They have a good selection of books, videos, etc. as well as computers for use and training classes to learn a new skill. They also serve as an early voting location and it's well run with easy directions on where to go to vote. I'll never vote on election day again (unless I forget to do early voting). Vote Early and Vote Often is what I say! The staff is always friendly and helpful if you're looking for something. It's easy to sign up for a library card and check out items. You can even use your library account for online libraries such as Hoopla. The parking lot is a bit awkward, but there's usually a spot available unless it's the last day of early voting or something like that. Some popular books may be out of stock, but that's probably true anywhere. read more

I go to this branch often to return books, they have a return drive thru windows that works perfectly for me and for my family, I often go with my daughter to pick up children books and music. Before the pandemic we used to take advantage of the programs they had specially for children, my only complain is that it doesn't have much places to work in and study and since there are not separate areas of study it can get loud if you want sit down, and read or work, This is comparing to some others branches that have private rooms and silent areas. Other than that, it has wi-fi, computers, the service has always been excellent. read more

Alafaya Branch - Orange County Library System - Libraries Near Me - Orlando, Florida

I like this location. I don't usually have to go in to the branch, but my daughter and my library cards were mixed up. Aiden helped us get them all squared away. I've been taking advantage of the audiobook option. It's awesome. read more

First off, consider that I'm from Puerto Rico and we rarely have public libraries. We do have private libraries or libraries located within Universities and colleges; but the concept of having access to free books/movies and Cds was only something I've heard off and watch through different movies and TV programs. So coming to this first library is my first and only impression of a public library. With that said... I am VERY impressed. But let me talk about the Pros and Cons... Pros: Even though this is a small library, it's location is very convenient (Colonial Drive, East of Orlando and 10-15 minutes away from UCF; considering traffic). They offer different events, classes and activities for Adults, teens and children. The library offers free Wifi, a library card which you will need to use their wifi, check-out items and attend events. If you do not have a wireless device, there are, at least, 20 computers for public use. They even provide access to a printer. They have a small, but quaint children's area and an are in the back considered a "study spot", where people are encouraged (through labels and signs) to be as quiet as possible. One of their most appealing features is the fact that they have a "Drive-thru" for when you are returning an item and there's even a drop off box for you to drop items during "after hours". Also, they have a respectable section of comics and graphic novels (The geek in me has to point this out!) Cons: One of downsides to this library (of course, in my opinion), is the fact that their selections in some of their departments are very outdated, depressing and even demeaning. Take psychology for example (my professional field)... Their selection has but a few Self-help books (which most of them are more than a few years old) and rarely any academic book. I'm currently studying for my licensing exam in psychology and I looked for any book that could help me review key terms. Even while looking through their databases, I only found one electronic book, from a few years back) that discussed basic psychology. Considering that the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders recently released their most updated version, (DSM 5), which has several and significant changes, I find their lack of updated material concerning. Second and last downside would be that they often neglect to emphasize to the public that it IS a library and silence and lower toned voices are encouraged. More often than not, you will see people gathering to chat, people talking loudly on the phone and kids running around. I can't blame the children.... but I wish the staff would be a bit more strict and open about encouraging people to respect the fact that they are in a library. Finally, since they are a small county library, their operation hours are a bit limited, however, they are open everyday. read more

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I'm a frequent visitor to this location of the Orange County Library system. It's a clean and friendly library with tons of resources at hand. There's about 20 or so computers that you can use for free. They have lots of special events and story readings for kids. Their children's section is small, but has a large selection of books for the kiddies of all ages. I went by a couple of weeks ago and there was a lady dressed up as a character from one of the stories, reading to a group of little ones. I'm all about activities that instill a love of reading in the youngsters! I wouldn't really suggest this as a place for quiet study. It's a small location and it's almost always busy. There's a few tables scattered behind the stacks that you can use... but for me there's just too much noise going for my taste. The best thing about O.C. Libraries in general, is their free delivery service. You can log on to their website and search their whole inventory of books. You can request the book (or DVD or CD) and they will ship it directly to your doorstep, free of charge! This solves the problem of sometimes not being able to find the book you need at the location nearest to your home. read more

Alafaya Branch - Orange County Library System - Courtesy of OC Library's website - Libraries Near Me - Orlando, Florida

As someone who once relied on the Seminole County Library System and had to settle for an extremely limited selection; the Orange County Library System is a God-send. I know people who live in Seminole County and pay the $100 fee a year to use the Orange County facilities, and even that is bargain when you consider all that you get. - 7 day DVD's (both informative and recreational even new releases) - CD's (also informative and recreational) - You can download e-books through their website for free - You can place orders for CD's, informative DVD's, Books and books on CD's and it's delivered to your door step at no charge - Check their web-site periodically and sign up for contests and events from things like winning a free Sony e-reader to meet & greet authors and other community leaders. - Free educational classes from things as simple as learning how to explore the internet to learning how to program and create video games - During tax season, they have experienced volunteers who will help you with your taxes for free I know that I probably left out loads more but with all that I've already stated; I can't see myself giving them anything less than five stars. I am truly appreciative of my neighborhood public library. read more

The loudest library I've ever been to. I never noticed before until I attempted to study in the library, rather than just check out a book. I thought the library was supposed to be a quiet space? read more

Alafaya Branch - Orange County Library System - Libraries Near Me - Orlando, Florida

My wife and I stopped in for early voting. There were plenty of parking spaces, plenty of volunteers, good signage; and, the parking lot and facility were very clean. We hadn't realized the library was closed, so we plan to return soon. It's a great convenience and a great resource. Our daughter has borrowed numrous books for high school projects here. read more

This has to be one of my favorite branches. It has a DRIVE-THRU!!!! Yes, to avoid fines, all I have to do is drive up, dump the bag, and leave. It's very organized, well run, and everyone is helpful and friendly. read more

Used to go to this library all the time till this year, they no longer let non orange county residents take out books for free anymore. A few years ago we even paid a special fee of $100 bucks, it allowed us to take computer classes for free, and get DVD movies. People take out an insane amount of DVD's at that location, they also have music CD's, and free Internet. We used to get brand new book titles, at the same time they came out in the stores. They really should rethink about charging non locals,I used to turn my books in late, and they got plenty of money out of me in fines. Seminole county library system is awful. read more

NOT ENOUGH TABLES! they have computer tables but the seats are not adjustable and you have to bend to read and such. Hey have less than 10 tables for people to use to study or whatnot. also they are smaller 4 person tables so not alot of room. they should get rid of some of the books and add more tables. Quiet place good for studying. Beautiful scenery in the back. Just not enough seating. Open till 9 is good aswell if you study for long hours. read more

I have been to all the branches of the Orange County Library System, and this one isn't too bad. I feel like the staff is very good at what they do here, and they always help me with whatever I need. The only issue I have, is some of the other patrons, and nothing can really be done about that. There's always a lot of people going to this branch, and generally most act well. I've had situations where people run past me to the new releases when I'm headed over that way, and grab like 7 DVDs off the shelf. That's annoying. The line for customer service can get backed up, too. Overall, it's a decent branch. Mostly recommended. read more

This place has done such a great job with making this library great. They rearranged the place since my last review and it is quiet and organized. read more

I have always liked this branch. It's a small(ish) library, but it's packed with great stuff. It's always quiet, and while it gets busy, it never feels crowded. The staff is always helpful and considerate. Even though I live downtown and can go to the bigger branch, I really prefer this one and I think I always will! read more

This library is joke--feels more like a third world country library. Their 'Beginner Reader' area is so sparse and the books are in bad condition. The computer area in the center is so cramped and crowded. It is obvious that this library is too small and outdated to meet the needs of the local community which has grown a lot since it opened. read more

My bad. I found the DVD. Lol. But still can't believe they were gonna charge me $30 when I could buy it new for $9.

Years ago when my kids were in school we used to always go to the library and get out books. During Hurricane Charley in 2003 I had four books that I had to return however my house was completely ruined because of the hurricane. After my house was livable I found the books and went to return them they wanted me to pay almost $100 in fines even though the books were in good condition and I returned them. I refused to pay any fines, tore up my card in front of them and told them I wouldn't be back. To this day I have not gone back to a library because of that. I called and spoke with the people downtown in the main library and nobody cared. Sad read more

The staff at OCLS locations are always very welcoming and nice. This place doesn't seem to differ from that trend. A nice selection to browse as well as just a general nice, clean feel to the entire place. read more

One star because this place can't be called a library, there is so much noise in there, kids running, screaming! adults talking on phone, and chatting. You can't focus, or study. read more

I love this library. When I'm free during the summer, I sign up for computer classes and certification classes just to get out of the house. Great educational books and great college tools. The staff and librarians are helpful and really nice! I love this location because it's so close to home and it's mostly quiet. read more

This is the best library I have been to yet. The staff is really helpful and friendly. Whenever you need something they will help you the best they can. Lastly they don't rush you whenever you need something. read more

This is a very nice library. Not very big, but has plenty of books, DVDs, CDs, children's books. I recently obtained an Orange County library card from here. The librarian had me fill up an application, and a picture was taken of me. The card was mailed to my current address. If a person shows proof of residence in Orange County, he or she can get the card instantly. I was able to use wireless internet by using my library card number and PIN (set up at registration). There were some issues with surfing, but I did not mind too much; hopefully it will not occur next time. It has a lot of visitors on the weekends. People checking out books, DVDs, CDs, etc., using the public computers, reading newspapers and magazine. The library offers computer lessons, volunteer opportunities, special events, and many other services. The library is located near a Publix supermarket on Colonial Dr. near Alafaya Trail. The traffic gets quite busy in rush hour. Both the inside and outside environments are quite nice. The inside is very clean and spacious, while the outside scenery is quite natural since the library is very close to a park. read more