Given its humble, controversial roots going back 30+ years ("Why do we need a library, anyway?!!" It costs my tax dollars!!") this marvelous resource for a smallish town has developed organically and creatively into one of the finest culture, fun and artistic resources a town like ours would want. Over the years, they've never been shy about trying out new policies, events, concerts, outdoor equipment/travel loans, guest speakers and internet webinars.... At 75, I'm running out of breath. But it's crystal clear that they've developed a staff and volunteer team that has fine morale and structure, creative ideas, pleasant and supportive customer service, prompt assistance whenever able, and a truly welcoming atmosphere for the broad, diversified population that it serves -- from toddlers to we senior humans: great job Benicia Public Library! Seldom has persistence, respect and innovation paid off so well for so many. Graci! Rob Peters read more

I had 3 books To donate on a weekday, went in to this amazing library and 3 librarians sat at the large desk, smiling, chatting and I was told by a tall lady, "we do not take donations during the week, come on Saturday when the volunteers are here." So I was disappointed and in disbelief that they turned me away. Unbelievable. When we purchased a home, it had to be close to a Library, and school(s). Consider rewriting your policies. Love the library. read more

I have nothing against community gatherings, but a loud concert inside the library is hard to wrap my head around. Gone are the days when one can find a quiet place to sit at the library at any time. But I get it, it's promotes community gatherings and there are no alternative facility to host the concerts. I'll be sure to check on Benicia's Event calendar before visiting the library. read more

So this is the best public library in opinion, because the customer service is key! The librarians are always helping me out whenever I'm looking for any books for my classroom, and they have the best selection of kids books too! The books for sale are cheap and offer a wide variety of hardcovers, anywhere from a $1-$4 bucks depending on new the book is. I always seem to find something to take back with me from their sales books! Gina and the folks at BPL are the best! Overall a 20 out of 10! read more

Benicia Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Benicia, California

Such a lovely library! It's spacious and cozy and filled with different seating options. There is an abundance of tables and chairs, each equipped with a charging station and lamp, which is super practical. There is also an area towards the back of the library with couches and a fireplace for some cozy reading. In this library you can check out not only books, but also video games! DVDs as well. You got options! There is also a cute little bookstore in an enclave next to the teen zone. Love coming here to chill out. The seats are suuuper comfy and the ambience is great when I want a change of environment for my reading or if I want to be productive with work. read more

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What to say, this place has everything! Besides the usual books, videos, etc., they have useful items to borrow,,,,,,everything from weed eaters to binoculers, and State Park passes, check it out. The art gallery, comfy seating (my husband usually falls asleep while waiting for me), interesting public speakers, and a bookstore to buy the CHEAPEST books ever. Finally, the staff goes above and beyond to help you with whatever .This place is AWESOME!!!! read more

I've been going to this library for a while & I absolutely enjoy being in this space! I absolutely have a blast going to this library as a way to make myself productive working on my personal project. There is also a fireplace which is awesome. Because books+fireplace= cozy book reading time. There's also tons of areas to sit in the library that is well spread out & very spacious. I love this because I like to have my personal space but also being in a space that everyone can do their own thing without interfering with your own work makes me be productive. The librarian staffs are friendly & helpful. One time I needed assistance to print various documents & the staff happy to assist me with printing. One of the cool thing I like about this that this library owns a 3-D printer in which the public can use it to create item(s)! read more

love Benicia library and honestly everyone of the staff. my experience there had been always a wonderful adventure of smiles, good spirit, talks and feeling greeted and welcome and always helped when me or my kids need something. we have attended many of their wonderful events and participated in book clubs etc. thank you for representing our great Benicia community. xoxo read more

The most comfortable place to study in Solano County! Fast wifi, clean, many outlets to connect your laptop or cell phone, quiet, and plenty of study tables with reading lights and chairs. During cold weather, there is a fireplace that is lit up which adds to the coziness here. *Drinks can be brought in as long as there is a lid or cover! read more

Staff is friendly, There's quiet space if you want to study. And the air conditioning is refreshing on hot summer days.

This is a great place to be if you need shelter during the daytime or need to use the computer or facilities. At the time of this review, the printouts from the computer are 15 cents per page and free to charge your phone. Would love to visit when time allow. read more

I love our little Benicia library. My kids grew up there. There were lots of books, story time and learning how to use the computer. Many years later I love the ramp up of different items like checking out a kindle, ipad and even now tools if you need to work in your garden. The use of social media to show how this library is ever changing and growing to help all ages of our community and not just with books is a great pleasure. read more

Always love coming to the library! Everyone is always so helpful and knowledgeable. I always am able to find just the book I'm looking for and if I can't find it, the friendly research librarians are very adept in finding what I'm searching for at other libraries and ordering it to be delivered to the Benicia Library for easy pick up. The library is always very clean and a peaceful oasis in a very busy world. There are also many interesting clubs to participate in, like Cook the Book Book Club! read more

Best selection. Best staff. Best stuff. Best programming. Benicia Public Library represents the best that a town of our size can offer, featuring a diverse selection of newer and older titles, carefully curated to appeal to casually browsing generalists and nerdy, fixated specialists. I love the layout of the library and how it is always clean. I love how the programming reflects the interests of the community and features exciting guests representing a wide array of subjects. The staff has always been incredibly helpful and generous with their time and attention. The building is simultaneously cozy and functional, with room to find a special solo spot or take an opportunity to work quietly with your peers. The reading clubs are fun and there is TONS of stuff for my kids to do while I scope out the cookbooks and new titles. I've never had a bad time at BPL. read more

Our Benicia library staff and amazing!! They are knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. What more could we ask for these days. Public libraries are essential to our community and having one in Benicia is a gift for all of us. read more

The staff is amazing, everyone is welcome. Beautiful fireplace! Best local library ever!

Benicia Library do better. I went there with two toddlers to pick out some books. The lack of enthusiasm from the lady behind to counter was ridiculous. Not a hello or a smile, nothing. She was quite unpleasant. She chastised another woman for talking too loud at the counter. The situation was handled poorly. Very disappointing. read more

For a small town, it is quite a good library. The wifi has been good whenever I used it The book collection is nice as well. Sitting area is fine There is some view from the windows read more

Bad experience at story time. If your toddler doesn't sot still you will be asked to leave. The woman that leads story time has no understanding of kid's learning styles. My kid is very energetic and learns hands on. Other libraries let you kids show interest in books they read during story time as long as they are not disruptive. This lady has no patience for kids and if they don't sit still you will be asked to leave. So disappointing. read more

Friendly staff, warm comfortable space. Nice art and great books. What more could you want

Wonderful rooms for kids and adults! Great book ordering system. Lots of programs offered- check out their web site!

This library is great. Clean, comfortable, and lots of places to sit. Oakland would be well served to model their library system after Benicia. The surrounding area is close to the Bay, a nice shopping center, tennis and bocci ball courts, and so forth. I would live in this town. End of review read more

Benicia Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Benicia, California

This library is very highly utilized by its community members,& that's all one asks. Sure the lighting is downright depressing,& there are no modern fixtures, but!!!! There is a gorgeous large fireplace lit for mood and warmth, there are a plethora of study cubes and tables, chairs , comfy nooks,& even an antiquated quiet room full of decades-old cubicles ( think colleges in the 90's) Diverse demographics that all come and use it's periodicals , free wifi (card holders only), after -school safe haven for getting homework completed . The employees are nice enough. Wifi signal is moderate and completely absent in the quiet study room. One can walk to 1st and get grub, either Safeway or toward the water. I'm most pleased by how full the library actually is. Books aren't going to trend toward lots of newly published mats. Not that kind of wealthy city . But suits me just fine. Glad I found it. Parking is AMPLE If planned well, one can study, read, go play tennis, get an iced drink in the sun, and have a meal-- all within arm's reach . read more

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The staff at the Benicia Library were very helpful, both by phone and the following day in person. We were reminded what a gem of a library we have right here in our small town. read more

Really friendly staff. Their system is not so easy to work with in terms of printing from devices brought yourself so was prompted to rather use there computers to do so. Really nice scenic and peaceful areas. Definitely could see myself visiting again in the near future. read more

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EXTREMELY friendly! Always do my homework and work projects here. Team members are good. The location is in a nice place with a view.

Spacious with plenty of seating throughout the library. The lighting inside has a mix of natural light which makes it feel relaxing. The dvd collection is great, I've seen many new movies and really enjoy the magazine collection as well. My only complaint is how bad the wifi is here. It's hard to connect, will drop often on several iOS/OS devices, and or take long to connect to a device. This issue make the library inaccessible to those who depend on wifi. Really hope the library can make a fix or upgrade because I'd love to return! read more

Love the library because it is clean, safe, and welcoming. However, the wifi is HORRIBLE. It disconnects frequently and it is hard to get a good connection when you're away from the front desk. I've had to leave the library to go study somewhere else because the wifi wouldn't work. Please fix your wifi !!!! read more

Very helpful staff, always takes time to answer my questions, they should give them all raises

All the librarians are amazing they are always there willing to help. I really like all of the new game boards that they have. They have tents now. They have learning tablets for children. Ages three and up all the way until middle school. Just recently they also started getting game systems to run out . read more

Love the atmosphere...especially when they used to turn on the fireplace! Spent many grad school afternoons and evenings here!

Best library in Solano county. Friendly librarian staff. Check out the museum passes! read more

Benicia Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Benicia, California

The Benicia Public Library, using it is a SNAP! The Benicia Public Library is a great place to go to for reading, studying, surfing the net (free wifi and public terminals for those with library cards), and for meetings. It is a medium sized library by area standards but it has a layout which allows for specialized sections to be located in their own separate wing. There is a very large children's section which has a sunken floor for public readings, a display/meeting room wing which can be reserved by local groups, a basement where they run book sales, and a main wing with an expansive sitting area surrounded by stacks and study tables. The staff here are friendly and dedicated. The library is also part of SNAP - Solano Napa Partners. SNAP is an online catalog of the holdings of public libraries located in both Solano and Napa Counties which can be found at snap.lib.ca.us. Through SNAP you can reserve books, CDs, and DVDs throughout the two county library network and have the items delivered to your nearest branch. I have reserved hundreds of the latest movies, music CDs and books through this network. One note though, Benicia is pretty strict about making sure you pick up what you reserve. If you fail to pick up your item within a week they fine you $1. Out of the country when your item comes in? Too bad, $1 please! No other library in the two counties does this. Just think of it as a donation to a good cause.... read more

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Gayle and I came to the Library yesterday for an inspiring set of readings from the Poet Laureate of Benicia. Lois and Gayle have been friends for many years, as have the rest of their LLB, most of who were also in attendance in addition to many friends and family. I'll admit that I'm not a big Poetry guy, but I enjoyed Lois' words as she weaved in prose, storytelling, and touching bits of her family history. I had previously read and enjoyed one of her books titled: RVing Solo Across America....without a cat, dog, man, or gun. The Poet Laureate event was in a comfortable Community Room that along with a small Art Gallery is set off in the front right (as you enter) from the Main Library. The Library itself opened in 1993 and has held its own in terms of style, size, and use against the next generation of Libraries that have recently opened up in Lafayette and Walnut Creek. I like that the Building is located within its own cul de sac within Benicia's larger Civic Center area. I enjoyed the wood beams that accent the ceilings and the feeling of community gathering as I walked in and around. There are also lots of quiet places to study, work, and just relax with a good book or screen. read more

Books, books, and books! Me and my daughter walked out with 14 books for only $5!!! Well technically 13 books, one was a "Premium" book that cost a $1 (ooooh). Here is the concept: The community workers hand you a paper grocery bag when you enter. You can take as many bags as you want. Fill up the bag full of books and walk away with a "bag of books" for $5. There is a premium section were books are individually priced, but of course, with reasonable cost. Be warned: The books are a mix of used, older, best sellers, etc. Do not expect to walk in there and expect the "latest" books. But do walk in with bookworm intentions. I was completely satisfied with my picks :D read more

Benicia Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Benicia, California

Lately I've been in the mood to read books but too cheap to buy any so I decided to start reading books the old-fashioned way.... checking them out from the library. On certain weeknights, my hubby & daughter take a trip to the Benicia Public Library and we love it. They have a huge section for kids and my daughter can run around the area freely. I usually look up books on the New York Times best seller list and have one in mind once I get there. Plus, this has probably been going on for a while now but I just discovered that you can check online to see if your books are available at ANY Solano County Library and put them on hold if it's not available. As a matter of fact, I had a book on hold a couple of the nights ago and was waiting for me under my name on the shelf. This is so convenient for mothers who have active toddlers because I don't have the time to walk around the whole library and expect her to be quiet. Now I can walk in and out without a problem. Anyway, the staff is great too. We love it here. read more

An amazing library with great art which exemplifies Benicia's cultural heritage. I'm so grateful to be able to live in this wonderful little town. read more

I have a confession to make: I don't have a library card. In fact, I've never even borrowed a book from this library. But I love to go there nonetheless because of their great kids' offerings! There aren't very many places in Benicia to take your toddler on a rainy day and this is one of my go-tos when we really just need to get out of the house. If you happen to go for one of their storytimes you're in luck, because they're great (and free!). The storytime for 0-18 months consists of a couple of stories, then free play with a whole bunch of toys provided by the library. It's held in a big, bright room closed off from the rest of the library so your little one can run and play without disturbing others. There's no registration or anything - just drop in. This was a breath of fresh air for us since we moved here from Silicon Valley where the library storytimes required online registration for a limited number of slots a month in advance, like buying concert tickets. It was a little intense. Even if storytime isn't happening this library has a great little area for young kids to play with blocks, puzzles, puppets, and, of course, books. Everything is at toddler height which is a blessing and a curse (since throwing books on the floor is one of her favorite pastimes). There's also a nice fountain out front that my kiddo likes to visit, and next door is the city gym where the city holds KinderGym and other offerings. Overall it's a great spot to entertain your child and encourage a love of reading. read more

This library has a polite staff, overall. However, they are being programmed by social justice warriors. As a library patron that has gone to the library since I was a child, this one, and the libraries in Vallejo, I was disturbed, saddened, and shocked to note the biographies are being slowly culled, and the older, more worthwhile biographies are being replaced with worthless biographies of America's celebrities, which don't really teach anything meaningful at all. Further, they are putting out monthly book displays where they highlight social justice ideas for gullible patrons and innocent kids. Islam, latino history, black history, feminism, and a host of other issues are what they advertise. JFK library in Vallejo does this as well, as does Fairfield. It's a disgrace. Our places of learning have become Marxist indoctrination centers. Sadly, most of the other reviewers could give a hoot about the ideology presented, not really grasping that Marxism just murdered 100 million in the last century. They simply want a nice building that is fun and peaceful. Dangerous liberty is better than peaceful slavery. read more

Great location, wonderful atmosphere, friendly staff. My only gripe is that there aren't any private conference rooms that I'm aware of. Napa, Vacaville, and other libraries have this feature, which is super convenient for doing a little Zoom/Team's call. read more