Located after the main drag, which makes parking easier and they do have parking in the back offers what most libraries do and then some. It has an interesting history. It used to be a hospital back in the day, so it's space was planned out perfectly. The city and people of Albany are able to use the rooms within there to do a lot of different activities not just as a library, but as a service to the community itself. The last time I went in for one of these, not looking for a book was when we had the Medicare. Meeting where they explained how Medicare works and all the different parts of it to anybody who's headed to that age that needs to be educated on how it works. People hung onto every word of it right there. They usually side rooms for wonderful things like that it's very informative. The library itself isn't huge like some public libraries in big cities, but it offers everything that everyone would need for a small community surrounding it. And I like the people that work there they're very courteous and helpful. It's always clean and there's plenty of space and I see all the tables are occupied by kids students and adults all working side-by-side together going through their books writing their papers all the different activities that are found in the library. It's a very modern design of a building and it offers so much to anybody that comes in there. Check their schedule of events there might be something for you. read more

I love a good library, I really do. And I was hoping to come here and find a study room or something and be able to study. However this place is so small it was clearly created for the non-urban environment. What I mean is there were no study room. Also, there weren't enough seats to fit all the people who want to come to study. And that was frustrating because I spent a good amount of time walking around trying to find a place and the seats that were empty for social distancing reasons were not being used. I understand that but on a Sunday I was really hoping that wouldn't be an issue. The next thing is that there are tons of kids in there and although I'm a teacher, I choose not to hang around with kids when I'm not teaching. So that's just something I didn't know. I wanted to come here because they have more hours than Oakland. And they are closer to me than Oakland a Alameda. And Oakland library is filled with people who are homeless we're trying to stay out of the elements and I really get that. And honestly it wasn't a problem, besides a dirty table but I found another one that was just fine. But there needs to be a place where someone can study and not be distracted. I know I'm not the only one who believes that because another guy came in while I was there wanting a study room And was told that there were no study rooms. I can't imagine a Library doesn't have steady rules but I guess they exist. So it was disappointing. But they did get a extra star because they had a book giveaway of band books so that's why they have two stars I got some band books because other than that the trip was useless. I have high expectations because I went to Albany high school and I know that Albany has resources that other places don't have. Clearly they did not use them in this library, so while I may be an improvement over the one they had before, it is not a destination place for anything. read more

Great staff, interesting collection. They have been very helpful in finding interesting series on DVDs for adults. Hopefully they will add to their collection. read more

i've drove by this library many times without going in. i finally went in out of curiosity and a quest for books not found in the other branches in the Alameda Library system. (Dublin, Fremont, Union City, Castro Valley, San Lorenzo, Newark). this was the only branch i haven't been to. i can also return the books to any of the other branches. it's the smallest library in the group. the positives are a small parking lot, and books that weren't available at the other branches. the negative is no parking on the 3rd thursday on the month on the nearby street. an abundance of caution lead me check the street sign, thus avoiding a ticket. i did get a ticket elsewhere in albany a few months earlier. read more

Albany Library - Entrance - Libraries Near Me - Albany, California

See all

I love how this library is open on the weekend. At the time of writing this, computer printouts are free when you are a patron. Will love to stop-in when I am in the area! read more

Came here for the first time today. I was pleasantly surprised that they had a medium sized parking lot in front for free. I mainly came here to study, not to check out any books or materials. There were some desks that were available that I could use. Unfortunately the table I sat at did not have an electrical outlet. Pros: -free parking lot -tables, chairs, and cubicles available -lots of community flyers/info at the entrance -bike rack in front -free WiFi Cons: -The table I used was not near an electrical outlet -people spoke loudly here. It's not a quiet spot if you need silence. read more

This library is excellent. They also have a parking lot. Love the staff. They are eager to help. On my off days, I use the library for fax, copies, sometimes internet, etc. LOVE IT. Great equipment. Fast internet. I used to use their rooms for studying years ago and I recommend the library for studying purposes as well. read more

When I first moved to Albany, the old Library on Solano was one of the first places I walked to from my then home on Key Route. And when the new Library/Community Center was built on the site of the old Albany Hospital, I got to walk inside before it was open and imagine the possibilities. I was also one of the first ones here on opening day on a glorious Saturday Morning. And as part of my first marriage, we asked that a donation be made to the Albany Library in lieu of gifts. What I like best about this facility is the great community center feel and the associated buzz of people in the various areas of the building. It really anchors Albany well. There have been a few disappointments. The coffee shop idea didn't pan out, capital money ran out before a second story could be added, and the moisture incursion issue continues to plague the City's efforts to take that white "tent" down. You'll find a brick with my name on it as you walk in next time to sign up for a Park and Recreation class, browse the bookshelves, attend a function one of the meeting rooms, admire the fine art in the Lobby, and vote. This "book" has many interesting pages contained within and invites you to take a look around and perhaps stay awhile. read more

This library is quite awesome! I came here on a Friday to get some work done, and even though it opens quite late at noon, I was happy it was there. It's quite close to the main street and not too far from downtown. The library isn't too big, and I don't know much about the book selection. But, as my purpose was to get work done, I found the library very conducive to that. I found a corner upstairs with a table and some outlets, and it was quiet. The internet was speedy (even fast enough for me to have a video conference), and I enjoyed working at this library! The air conditioning was great too. Would recommend! read more

It is a small town library with different selection of books and other stuff like dvd and laptops. I think you can find a lot of different things here and it's kid's friendly. I come here to study over the weekend away from my kids and I see parents coming to find books with their little kids and it is adorable. If you are looking for a college like library, this is not the place. read more

There are ballet classes with Ronn Guidi Wednesday and Friday nights!!! There's other classes too but so excited to see Ronn teaching with one of the OB's principals. Come check it out. read more

Perhaps I'm old school and miss the ole days when libraries were quiet and as a kid you had to come in with your "whisper voice." Gone are those days since this place can be a zoo especially in the summer. If it were't for the nice facilities, extra tables/chairs (even cubicles with power outlets), and the great lighting - you probably wouldn't see my ass hanging around here. That, and because of the stupid bar exam. But, if you're like me and usually use headphones or earplugs, I suppose the three year olds running around in circles and yelling/crying aren't that big a deal. Who knows. Just glad libraries have still managed to survive. read more

*disclaimer! I am a librarian, so all libraries will likely receive 5 stars from me. Naturally, I love them on principle. Support your local library!!!!* I have a card to the Alameda County Library but I've only visited this nice branch located in Albany. What a nice community space. Very centrally located, this library is a nice space and seems to be a good place for teens and kids. I went to gain access to an electronic book that could only be accessed in the library, but my short visit was very pleasant. I always drive by and think I should use this place more often, so maybe that will be a new goal. read more

1. Free Parking 2. Quiet 3. LDOH (Low Density of Homeless) 4. Fast Internet 5. Large Tables 6. Comfortable Chairs 7. Free Library Card (Pay Libraries are Wrong!) read more

Went for the first time today, great location in terms of parking (no lot, but it's suburban and there was fair street parking on the surrounding blocks at 5pm on a Wednesday). Friendly staff and librarians. Large children's section with seating reserved for kids during peak hours which is nice. Quiet but not eerie. Cultural activities like movie showings. Great WiFi. Comfy seating. I will be back! read more

Perhaps I'm too easily impressed but I like the Albany Library. It has a big parking lot, it's open on Sundays (which is particularly nice for working parents who need to take their kids to the library on weekends) and is generally good. I've only ever been on Sundays and haven't noticed any homeless people, but the general sound level is high as there are a lot of kids. It's a better place to check out books rather than study. read more

I couldn't do it. I was ready to spend the whole afternoon here but left after 2 minutes. It has an old people feel. The environment is not stimulating at all. And there are not many tables for people to work/study/read. In search for a decent library in the East Bay... read more

Really good wi-fi for a library. Way better than downtown Berkeley. Comfortable chairs! Haven't checked anything out, probably won't since I have Berk and Oak Library cards already and don't want to learn a third system. The selection looks a little on the smaller side though. read more

Albany Library was a discovery of The Mother's. The Mother is an avid e-book reader. And she was delighted to find another resource for free e-books to download and to borrow. As for me, another resource for academia and wifi. Albany Library has a lot of DVDs that I am not able to find at Berkeley Public Library. I had a film director paper to put together this past spring semester for a global cinema class. I chose to write about Federico Fellini, the great Italian Surrealist director. I was able to obtain DVDs beyond 8 1/2 and La Dolce Vita of other Fellini films: I vitelloni, La Strada, La Citta Delle Donne, Satyricon, Le notti di Cabiria, and Giulietta degli spiriti, among others. (I do not solely rely on youtube.com here.) This past semester, I utilized the library for modern art history resources. I borrowed a couple of books on the surrealist artist/photographer Man Ray for a research paper on Lee Miller. Miller worked with Ray as his assistant/apprentice and their relationship turned personal and romantic. Eventually, she left him and Paris and became an artist/photographer in her own right. A couple of books assisted me in doing quite well in the modern art history class. It is a challenge coming here at times for me. For one, parking is a challenge. This complex also has the community center. There is not enough parking spaces to accommodate either the library or the community center. And some of the library associates have a bit of an attitude or a total attitude. It is not clear if the books on hold from one angle are self-serve or a librarian has to obtain the item for the customer. Since discovering the hold area is self-serve, I do not bother the librarians unless it is really necessary. All in all, it is A-OK at Albany Library. read more

Thankfully this library is a visible representation of the motto "Do not judge a book by the cover!" (Sorry, I am a child of the 80s, but I am still working on a way like "Miami Vice"-inspired architecture.) Inside and to the left of the main hall----disclaimer I have not checked out the community center nor the apparently unique bathrooms---is a light-filled library with a small, but excellent, collection. From my mid-afternoon and midweek visit is also apparently very-well loved! Tons of young and old folks using excellent selection of resources---web, outlets, computers with access, etc. I had ordered several DVDs using the libraries website---you (meaning ANY California resident) can get an e-card online and then make it full-service when you pick up your items! I also found a whole pile of excellent reading---from Wonder Woman (Come on the woman has indestructible bracelets and uses them for good!) to the History of Richmond. I found the staff really kind and the woman at the circ desk audibly ecstatic about helping another patron hunt down something. (Bless library staff!) I also very much enjoyed the art on display at the facility. An Albany artist's clay sculpture I had trouble not touching as well as really cool photos of soil and dirt piles with interesting footprints. I felt like I got some culture for the day. I agree that parking is available as well as a it is just a nice walk from 72/72R on San Pablo. read more

This is one of my favorite local libraries. -fairly modern -free wifi -decent kid's section -free computers to use -cheap to print out copies (0.15 I think) -decent Latest Releases -good selection of CD's -decent magazine area -parking is good, I almost always find a space in the lot. -adjoining the Community Center so there's often classes and interesting things going on. My only beef is that it's on the smaller side so I'm not always able to find a book that I want but then I order it via the online site and my book gets here in a few days. No biggie. read more

The Albany library is a nice library to read in or peruse the books. It sure is better than the El Cerrito branch, and easier to deal with than Berkeley. I love the Linked In system, where you can order books from all over the state and even Oregon. I wanted to comment on the young woman's remark that the library has an "old people" feel to it. That, to me, is a very callous comment. Would you say that it has a "black people" feel to it? Or a "Chinese people" feel to it? Just a very insensitive and unkind comment. I would really appreciate it if people writing reviews showed just a little bit more humanity and sensitivity when writing reviews. Skip the bigotry, whether racism or ageism. read more

this is hands down the loudest library I have ever been in. There are kids running around (yay for kid reading) and talking at the top of their lungs (not so yay). Same for adults The librarians have a dang PA system! what the heck. At random times they will get on and loudly declaim that the library is closing in 17 minutes or whatever. Then that the library will be closing in 8 minutes. Etc etc. There is pretty much no rhyme or reason to their closing announcements, and Im guessing its more of a "just now glanced at the clock and wish patrons would begin to leave" thing. There are electronic scan stations fro self checkout which is cool. And they have a limited number of laptops available for 2 hour loan. The library is attached to the community center. Both are pretty small considering the amount of users they get. The library is completely closed on Fridays, and is open til 6 or 8 on weeknights. THe kids section is about half of the space (yay kids reading, again!) The adult section feels a bit small, esp because they have a sizable non-English section. Id say books in English for adults are maybe 40% of the footprint. Books in other lnguages include japanese, chinese and persian. Theyre marked "community languages" so perhaps they order the books accordign to the current demographics of the town. I think thats a nice touch Paperback selection is sparse, and leans heavily toward genre. Romance is one book shelf, mystery is one bookshelf. Scifi is half a bookshelf. Of course if you jave a scpecific title in mind you can request from other branches. But if youre just browsing the pickings are slim Its an ok library, nothing fancy but gets the job done I guess read more

I am very impressed with this newly built library! This main brach is very high-tech for their check out system and card catalog. The space is very airy and comforting, and all the staff I encountered with are very friendly and the helpful! Another plus that I LOVE is that you can request a book to be shipped to the Bay Farm branch, which is only 10 min walk for me! Downside is that because it's still new, they don't have quite many books and DVD's to offer. Each one I look up so far, are out of stock or they don't carry it! Bummer, well I still have to keep my Netflicks membership! But at least this is FREE! read more

Reading might seem like a solitary activity, your nose buried in the book -- but go to a library and you'll find a building full of people just like yourself.... readers, explorers, adventurers who use books and magazines to move around the world. This library gives you the key to all that. Well staffed, well stocked, with friendly patrons and in these interesting times its a safe warm place to go read a book. read more

Returning some stars to the Albany library, in recognition of the caring librarians who spoke so eloquently at the recent Alameda Library Foundation meeting this month. This business of wanton book culling is in fact the Foundation's policy. No records are kept of which books have been discarded. read more

If you have work to do as an adult, I would not recommend coming here. Great place for very young children but not conducive to productivity due to the large volume of noise that is present. I came on Thursday morning and very much regret it. Stayed for 10 minutes and had to leave. read more

As you know, I love libraries. I'd never before thought of them as refuges, but this has been one of our primary places of refuge while the work has been done on our house. Today the bedrooms and hallway are being painted and once again we're here. There's a plug on the floor by this table so we can keep the laptop charged because its lightweight battery loses its juice too fast. The chairs are comfortable, there's lots of natural light and lots of people hang out here. The bathrooms are large, although some of the toilets flush so vigorously water is sprayed on the seats. Not a good thing, that. In addition to being the library it's the community center. My only complaint is that it's not open all the time, but I guess you can't have everything. read more

another yelper wrote:I couldn't do it. I was ready to spend the whole afternoon here but left after 2 minutes. It has an old people feel. The environment is not stimulating at all. There called uv mercury fillament light bulbs, they make the energy integrity of the place unpleasant to study in or grocery store unpleasant to shop in. read more

Really nice local library. Has free wi-fi for patrons (no hassle to get a card), lots of tables and chairs; comfortable side chairs. Good selection of books. V. friendly, helpful staff. Good parking in lot and on street. Closed on Fridays but open most of the rest of the time. Has been a lifesaver during our extending remodeling project when noise and/or paint fumes drove us out of house. read more

Some of the good highlights - Long hours on some days Free wifi Lobby stays open later than library Reasonably comfortable seating areas inside library and in the lobby Some of the not so great highlights - Does not seem to have a large selection of books Lobby is usually freezing Bathroom is often dirty I like that the library has days that they stay open as late as 8 pm and it's an extra bonus that even if it's a day that they close at 6, the lobby is still open until 8:30 / 9ish pm. There are computers inside that are available for use by anyone with a library card but you're limited to an hour on them so I prefer to bring my tablet. There's free wifi and the signal can still be picked up in the lobby, which I love on those days that I prefer to sit more by myself. I'd say that this library is pretty decent sized but it's disappointing that every time except once that I have wanted to check a book out from here is have been told that they don't have it there BUT they can order it from someplace like Fremont.....and have it in a week or two. With that time frame I'd be better off just ordering the book off the Internet or driving to the other library and picking it up myself. For some bizarre reason the air conditioning in the lobby seems to be on most evenings. This is the east bay, warm and hot nights are virtually nonexistent here so I don't know who feels it's necessary to keep things so cold in the lobby. Sometimes it's even colder in the lobby than it is outside. I don't know how often the restrooms are checked and cleaned but I'm inclined to think it may not be frequently enough because of the number of times I have seen the trash cans overflowing and nasty messes that I will not elaborate on. I have not had much contact with the staff, I prefer to help myself when I can but in the experiences I have had with staff they've been friendly and helpful. I notice a lot of parents bringing their kids here, I don't know specific days and times but I think that there's weekly activities for young kids held here; if anyone is looking for an educational way to keep their kids occupied. The crowd here is pretty quiet, of course you hear the random shriek or squeal from a little kid but they're just kids being kids, so it's a nice spot to come study, do homework, or just hang out somewhere to read and write. read more

This seems to me like a basic library. The last time I was there in middle school I asked the guy at the counter the difference between nonfiction and fiction. What was his response? "I cannot answer that question ask the reference desk." Why couldn't a guy who works at the library answer this question? oh and he was RUDE. I go to the Berkeley Library since then. read more

Super good little library for little albany. Great at the inter library loan. I wish I could live for 250,000 years, so that I could read all the books. read more

Access to a gazillion resources. On site and online. Clean well-lit facility, with community center right across the lobby. Yummy!

The Albany library is small, but it's also clean, well-lit and has a friendly staff. The hours are somewhat limited, but it's always easy to get on a computer when they're open. And BIG bonus - if you're ever in the area and need a bathroom right quick, there are great public restrooms in the building that you can use whether the library is open or not. Three stars for the library, five for the bathrooms. Is it wierd that that's my basis for a library review? read more

The Albany Library has the best poetry in the SF Bay Area. Dan Hess and other librarians volunteer their time and work to set up the excellent room. The open mic is excellent. It is terrible that many people leave after the featured poets, before the open mic. Catherine Taylor does a lot of good work to plan the excellent poetry. Christina Hutchins, former poet laureate of Albany, is Great and adds so much to the poetry. For over 5 years it has long been my goal to be a featured poet at The Albany Library. read more

Your experience is going to depend on what your expectations are for this library. It is a small library and the parking lot does not provide enough spaces for everyone during the times when there are events being held in the library or the community room across the way. Sometimes I've had to park on the nearby street next to the ohlone greenway trail. Their hours are similar to other libraries in the county, it is open until 8 some nights and closed on fridays. Some of the librarians at the main desk here are friendly though the reference librarians at the reference desk appear obnoxious and snobby. They do not have the most up to date checkout stations here, You can't check in items manually with a self serve machine like some contra costa libraries. They are less organized than some other libraries in the area, they did not check in dvds that i returned and I had to bring this to their attention. They are accommodating though and give you the benefit of the doubt with this type of stuff while other libraries in the bay area would not do so and hold the patron responsible for the libraries mistakes. Unlike contra costa library they are also more forgiving of late fines as they have held fine forgiveness programs during the last couple summers. Like other reviewers have mentioned do not come to this library expecting a quiet environment where you can relax, concentrate or study. Its small size contributes to the noise level, it has a cramped configuration, and there are too many kids and families that are walking and running around (especially after the schools get out in the afternoon). Some tables on the library floor but these are really best suited for students that are studying together and hanging out. They have some study desks which enable individuals to better focus and study because they are partially enclosed and they are not out in the open on the library floor. They will are usually being used however and it will be hard to find a open space. read more

I love the library. I read so so much and my wallet was really starting to notice those trips to the book store. Then I decided to check out the library and yay its a hit, they have soo many books that I love and also have movies that all of my family has been enjoying. We even happened to go there on aday that the kids were able to play wii and board games. Good wholesome fun read more

The library has a selection of children's books in Russian and several other foreign languages. Great selection of graphic novels and magazines. Every Tuesday evening in the summer there is a performance for children at 6:30 pm. On the down side when returning books they are left on a counter for anybody to take at will and you will be held responsible. read more

If you like to take your kids there it's a perfect place but if you're trying to study in a quiet area forget about it.