Clean, plenty of power outlets, so many desks to work upstairs. Pretty quiet except after school at around 3:30 weekdays.

Everything about this library is great. Friendly helpful staff, broad range of subject materials available and the craft classes are a lot of fun and very educational. read more

Thank you City of Alhambra for a fun and conducive children's section of the library. Parents can start off their toddlers with the love of reading with their vast collection of age-appropriate picture books and designated toddler story-time area. read more

My wife and I completed the application for passports. We were told that it would take up to 14 weeks which we agreed. It has been over 5 months and we had not received any of our original documents including our passports, so we decided to return to the library to ask about our status, spoke to a male supervisor Who stated there was nothing they could do. Very sad. I figured if they were able to process our application they should be able to at least contact the department and inform us what our status was. We will not return to this Alhambra library. Sad. Our suggestion is to go to another library or place and ask them first if there are going to be able to follow up on your passport status. Keep the faith. read more

I'm currently studying for a difficult math test and this library is my go-to place to study! Even though I wish they were a 24/7 service, the things I love about this library are the free wifi, an interesting and large collection of books, free water bottle refilling stations, clean restrooms, a balcony to get fresh air, computers on the second floor, plenty of tables (if you go at the right time), free parking, and various events that they host. Overall my experience at this location has been very pleasant and I hope to frequent this library more in the future! read more

I like this but on the second floor 'quiet zone' sometimes the librarians are the loudest talkers of all! For goodness sakes, ladies! whisper!! and, often kids are allowed to talk loud, talk on phones, etc. so often folks have to ask them to quiet down. But, when folks are being quiet .....? This library is heaven! As for the rental rooms, this library is super cool and if you run a few minutes late--they save your room if you call. read more

The children's section is fantastic place to get quiet time while the little ones get to play on computer, color pages, discover and check out plenty of books. Summer cooling center too! My kid always wants more time to stay and explore read more

Alhambra Library - Disaster preparedness puppet show - Libraries Near Me - Alhambra, California

I am glad that there is a nice and beautiful library like this in the neighbors. Great jobs!!

- (Negative) 5 stars if I could. Staff unwilling to help near closing time. Front desk apparently closes 15 minutes before they actually close. Books that they said they would reserve for me next day were reshelved. Apparently you need a pin number to self check out which is pretty dumb considering that I never signed up for a pin number. Staff said it was the last four digits of the phone number, but didn't work. read more

I've been visiting over 2 years now during COVID and although their programs are not lacking; the librarians are amazingly helpful, however I can't help but think some of the employees are rude. There is 1 employee at the main desk for check out that double masks and sometimes wears a face shield and, for the life of me, I absolutely cannot hear what she is saying at all and makes me feel like I am inferior or she's mocking me when I need assistance. (I suspect during my 2 year visit that may be a reason why the front desk employees keep changing.) Never again will I ask for help at the front desk even when checking books out. I'm just going straight to the librarians... read more

It's an old library, but great staff. Very friendly and resourceful. Children's area is solid. The best part about this library- Ms. Megan and story time! She's the best and the kid loves her. You have to sign up for this limited-space event, and residents get priority. It fills up fast. read more

Library doesn't provide 5 dollars change as they did before when I ask the employee from the counter. I only need 0.10 $. The machine won't accept bills more than 1 dollar. read more

This library was my best resource after having kids. They have so many free activities during the week aside from a separate children's book room. My daughter loved Storytime and playroom days. All of the teachers (librarians) are so sweet and kind! read more

I would give the library 5 stars for quietness and customer service. But the reason for the three stars, it is hard to find a empty seat around here. The comfy chairs are open but it's kind of hard to study on that and sitting next to someone who is snoring. There needs to be more tables or individual ones. People who take the seats end up leaving their stuff to hold their spot and then go buy food and come back. Now I figured to get a seat or a table, you would just have to come early like when the library opens. After an hour of the library opening, you'll be lucky if you find a table. Another pro is the free parking structure! read more

Quiet and cozy. Love how I feel when I'm in this library. A good place to avoid noise and focus on my thoughts and ideas. read more

Alhambra Library - Libraries Near Me - Alhambra, California

AVOID THE PASSPORT SERVICE HERE We had an appointment today for my daughter to renew her passport. We had been told it was 1.30 pm. We arrived at 1.20 pm and told by the lady that we were supposed to be there at 1.15 pm that ' she had no time'. She was clearly all packed up and ready to leave and staring at the clock. She told us that she had to leave to go into the post office to take care of her own paperwork. We even offered to help her get in line for the post office. She literally spent the next 10 minutes arguing about how she could not help us. In that time, she could have easily processed the passport application, since we had all our photos and photocopied papers ready to go. It took us a lot of effort to get this appointment, since both my husband and I have to work till late. I am frequently on call at weekends too and both parents need to be present to renew a child's passport. My only regret is that we did not have an email confirming the appointment time. Clearly this lady is not interested in helping people and I would suggest perhaps she look for a different position, that does not involve assisting the public. This is our first time using this passport office and we will not be back. read more

Not the biggest library but the selection is great. Most notable about this library are the number of books written by POC authors. Every time I come here, I find new, lesser-known books by POC authors. The no-contact checkout is great. You don't even have to manually scan each item. All you need to do is stack the items on the machine and they will automatically scan in. No Japanese-language books, but they have Chinese, Vietnamese, and Spanish books. The recommended book sections with literary picks are always great. read more

I can't believe it's been over a decade since the "new" library opened. I guess it's not so new anymore. I love the children's section. Beautiful mosaic in the entryway. They always had the new titles of picture books out on display. Librarians are helpful, story time with puppets is fun. For grown ups. GIANT selection of books, also great selection of dvds, magazines. I found some very obscure foreign titles here that even Pasadena's library system didn't carry. The parking isn't great in the immediate vicinity, but it is right in the downtown area so there is parking in the general area. read more

Our family go to library to get our reading and studying done. After their modern renovation, this library is super clean, bright, very spacious and there are so many computers, tables and seating areas available even on the weekends. There's a parking garage down stair and lots street parking too. Many popular and convenient restaurants, tea houses and dessert joints nearby is the added bonus of coming here for us. The only thing that can make this place better is the noise level when the high school kids keep their voices down. Some of them are pretty noisy and it can be annoying when you're trying to stay focus. It's a library kids, hush up. But don't let a few loud mouth teens ruin such a great place. The staffs really need to enforce that a bit more. read more

This is a very nice place to study and relax. The entire building has AC, and there are plenty of books and tables to sit at, most of the seats have computers too! There are many different seating arrangement types, from individual study desks to small/large groups! Very open and natural sunlight, parking is also easily accessible and shaded! The only part that I dislike is that not every table has outlets. I feel that having outlets easily accessible to all tables is a must for people studying these days. Luckily, the library isn't so crowded that you'll be forced to sit without one if you are alone, however some of the 4-person or 8-person tables are in the middle of the room, away from access to power. read more

Alhambra library has its pros and cons... but for me, the cons stack up. This library looks great from the outside and there's plenty of free parking! I've been here plenty of times for various reasons. It is fun how the library has events for children every couple of weeks. I came here with my niece for a singing event and all the children were having a blast. On another note... on the weekdays I've been here, the library gets super packed. The Internet is impossible to connect to. There aren't many outlets and the study rooms are full. I've interacted with several employees and each time they weren't friendly. Again, this library does have its pros. I'll try to check out the library at different hours and days.. and hopefully encounter friendlier employees. read more

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Many unethical visitors of the library read multiple newspapers at a time, making the waiting time for other readers unreasonably long and the library's staff members have stopped enforcing their own rule that one should read only one newspaper at a time. I think they no longer enforce their own rule (a small sticker on the newspaper shelves says a library patron should take only newspaper at a time) because they are afraid of confronting the unethical readers who tend to be rude, confrontational and potentially violent. They should learn from San Marino Crowell Library where one has to show the library staff his or her library card before taking one newspaper. They can keep a newspaper for only an hour. read more

I came in here because I needed a productive way to spend a few hours. I haven't been in this library in a while, so I was surprised when I seen that it did not change much since my last visit. The receptionist at the front desk was very nice so, talking to her was easy. When I asked for the librarian, she informed me the only librarian available was in the kids section, and I would need to go to her if I need help. This was awkward because I just smoked a joint before going in, and the last thing I wanted was some mother to point out my odor lol. After getting the book I wanted, I found a cool spot to chill and read which was all good until some geeky looking dude decided to bring out his lunch. I didn't mind the food as much as I minded the guy chewing with his mouth open. I tried ignoring him, but after five minutes of just hearing him constantly smack his lips as he chewed, I couldn't take it anymore. I looked at the dude with intensity, and I know he knew what he was doing because he immediate shut his mouth and continued chewing. Sorry Alhambra library, but you guys need to do a better job at enforcing a no eating policy where people are trying to study. read more

Alhambra Library - Libraries Near Me - Alhambra, California

I have been coming here more frequently instead of visiting tea shops to do my studying. I like how I can take a nap on here at the library after work before I start my studyings. This place is pretty clean, spacious, quiet, and parking is easy to find. They have their own parking structure where you can park for up to 4 hours. Sometimes, the internet can act up once in a while but the wifi is decent for the most part. No eating or talking inside though. Note: the library closes early on Thursdays-sat (5:30pm) Note :lately the library has been pretty loud in the evening with people yelling/talking across the hallway in different languages and kids running around. read more

Clean, spacious, free underground parking (4hrs), located directly downtown so within walking distance to eating spots if you're hungering down to study. On site passport services are available, photocopying, all the usual abundance of books, dvds, research items that make all libraries awesome. There are not as many public activities as other libraries (ex kids story times, family activities), you do have to actively ask for assistance read more

You have given me all the knowledge I have every wanted here Front desk was good the room was not as promised the bathroom didn't have vent the parking lot was not supervised I had to come down to my car at 3:00 a.m. to get some papers and there was a random person checking in the cars I actually had to move my car closer to the elevator location is downtown Fresno first time there most likely last time read more

So I recently moved to Alhambra and decided to check out the local library. It's not part of the County library system so you have to apply for a new library card that you can only use at this library as far as I can tell. It's a dang nice library - large and new and plenty of table/chairs to study or chill. Two stories with teen and children areas on the first. And public computers with free internet on both floors. They also have free wifi if you want to bring your own laptop. Their selection of books isn't that extensive but I think you can reserve books - maybe even from other libraries, if you're looking for something in particular. I like going there most on the weekdays. It's not that busy so you have plenty of choices on where to park yourself for a few hours. Although it is the summer so I'm sure it gets busy after everyone goes back to school in the fall. On the weekends, it gets packed though - people probably taking advantage of the free air conditioning on the hot summer days. Also the internet is a lot faster on weekdays since there are less people using it. Parking is easy - either in front or the back on 1st and 2nd streets respectively. Or there's an underground lot with even more spaces. And the location is great - really close to my house and right off Main Street so you can grab some food or coffee if you please. read more

This library is in the heart of Alhambra's downtown. (BTW, Alhambra's DT is quite small with non-functional one-way streets that don't really serve a good purpose) The parking structure beneath the library is somewhat non-functional as there is hardly any parking. The second floor seems to be cordoned off for employees and other personnel. The entrance and exit on First Street is actually dangerous because it is not designed correctly for a one-way street. It has two levels along with a children's reading area. It seems to be quite a packed library getting lots of usage from local patrons. There are even private study rooms although I have not tried utilizing them yet. To get access to the WiFi, all you have to do is be a library card member which is free. The first five digits of your card is the password. read more

Never have I ever been so in love with a library. This place is so wonderful inside and out. The out side is very white, so it hurt your eyes at first but you should get used to it fairly quick. They have beautiful plant decorated all around the area and just adds to the wonder. This place is very serene and aesthetically pleasing. It's literally a palace of books. The one problem I have is that this place is lined with tile. Because it is lined with so much tile, it echoes throughout the place. But all in all: in love read more

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Came here on a whim with my cousin today. Apparently she buys her baby books at the bookstore here. It's a rather nice, new, all-white building located right off of Alhambra's Main St. Walking in, I felt a sense of calm. It's very nicely kept inside with plenty of space for studying, reading, computer use or whatever you're into. On a Monday afternoon there were quite a few people taking advantage of all the space and comfy looking chairs. And, yes, my cousin wasn't making it up! There is a bookstore, although not large or anything, that sells used books for SUPER cheap! It's all mainly in decent condition too! My cousin bought 3 children's books for just $3.00 total! It was a super awesome deal! The bookstore is located on the first floor near the bathrooms. You can miss it pretty easily. Would've been a 4 star library, but with the addition of this gem of a bookstore, it's definitely a 5 star! Now, go buy some cheap books people! read more

Alhambra Library - Libraries Near Me - Alhambra, California

This new library is bigger, brighter, and well designed with outdoor seatings!! It acquired more selections in books, DVD, and larger area for studying. It is very pleasant to the eye, and usually very quiet. Do avoid to go here after 2:30pm on weekdays, as the nearby high school students would rush in after class and break the peace with conversations and gossips. Sometimes people really ought to be more polite and considerate. Often there are elderlies who turn on the speaker on their computer unit.... shhhh it is a library. Or someone would just abruptly took the seat next to me without asking or even making eye contact.... Awkward!! Any how, it is still a good place to find a good read and get some studying done, with great deal of parkings underground. read more

Who am I kidding? I love love love this library. It is clean, organized, close to my house, open everyday (decent hours) and plenty of underground parking. Their collection of books is wonderful and you can easily search their catalog online & do all your renewals online. WiFi is a tad pokey though. Also walking distance to a bunch of good eats on Main St. (Lovebirds, Cha for Tea, Shakas, Starbucks, Honey Badger Cafe, etc...) Study rooms (2): available in 2 hour time slots, call in advance to book because they get filled up quick during the weekends! . read more

Always a great spot to study. There is parking underground so makes it super convenient to just take the elevator and go to the library. The library itself is spacious and quiet. Only downside is that it's across from a high school and around 3pm it gets crowded so if you want a table come early! And not all tables have outlets so first come first serve. I usually go to the second floor to study because it's more quiet there. read more

Built in 2008. Free wi-fi. Good air conditioning. Good book and magazine and newspaper selection. Online catalog search works well. Note: it costs 50 cents to hold a book. (County doesn't charge to hold.) read more

Spacious and well-lit. Friendly staff. Comfortable chairs. I could read there all day.

I found a new place to do my computerstuff rather forcing myself to by a drink at some Tea and Coffee place only to be able to sit there. Alhambra Library is the perfect place for you to do your homework, because it's quiet, it has free WiFi, a/c, plenty of outlets for your phone and Macbook (so important these days) ;) ...ohhh... and did I mention if you're oldschool there are actually a lot of books you can use if you need to look up for sth. read more

I had 4:30 appointment for a mani pedi down the street and I usually frequent the Bruggermeyer library, which also closes at 5pm on a Sunday. I came here and parked in the lot across the street, but discovered they had their own lot. Still, the lot across was 4 hour parking. It was super hot that day and so the library was pretty packed. I walked upstairs to the study area and found that most of the seats were taken, but I asked a gentlemen if I could share his table. I saw a sign that said that you had to reserve the study rooms. It was fairly quiet until a group of kids and their teacher went into one of the rooms. They started singing so I decided to move to the other side of the library. Again, all seats were taken so I asked a girl to share her table. Overall the library was quiet, but you do hear a lot of kids throughout the day. An older gentleman came and asked to share a desk with a younger gentleman and started having a conversation with him, telling him that he had just gone on a vacation, then asked if he spoke Chinese. The younger gentleman was really nice and told the man politely that they weren't supposed to talk. I'm finding more and more, as I frequent different libraries, that a silent library is pretty hard to find, so I'll take what I can get. read more

Very quite environtment... well organised and helpfull staff... this library is one of top notch in the area compared to other library places... The library has underground parking facility and two stories of organised books and computers... they also have great outside reading gazeboo on second floor opened for outside reading... Overall, great places and great staff read more

Alhambra Library - Computer work station - Libraries Near Me - Alhambra, California

There were 2 people working the front checkout, a teenage girl and and an older Asian woman with glasses. I advised the older Asian woman that I didn't have my library card on hand and showed her my drivers license that I saved on my phone. She dismissed my proof of identification and said I needed to bring in a physical copy to check out a book. She paused and told me she would help me this one time only. While saying that, she said it costs 50 cents to look up my drivers license. I asked her if she was going to charge me because I was not informed about that. Instead of checking out the book, she "delayed" the process and said, "you have a 3.00 late fee and the book was due on 5/11 which was a long time ago." I did not have money on hand and told her I was not required to pay the late fee today in order to check out a book. In addition, I told her I returned the book in the drop off bin today. After I said that, that's when she began scanning the books. This was the worst customer service I've experienced at a library. Instead of checking out a book, she escalated it to an interrogation. This is not how you treat individuals from the community. Things happen in life and I don't need to disclose why the book was not turned in on time. This is an invasion of privacy and there are other libraries with employees that treat the public with respect and dignity. read more

My brand new local library, nice and with all the latest. Wifi, workstations, meeting rooms, helpful staff and underground parking!