This is a run of the mill library. As other people said it's quite small only one floor. There's a decent amount of table space, but depending on how busy the library is, It might be hard to find one. The library looked clean and smelled fine. There are a lot of people of all ages and demographics, which I personally really liked. The Wi-Fi speed was actually really good which kind of surprised me! I personally wish there was a little café on the inside of the library but because it's so small and there are other places to eat in proximity, I'll let it slide. The parking is cheap In my opinion. Someone said a dollar an hour is expensive but I thought it was fine. Of course I'd rather not have to pay for parking in the library, but given that this is in downtown Bethesda, they probably want to prevent people from parking here to do other things (?). I didn't go to the bathroom so I can't speak on the cleanliness of them. There was someone who had drank alcohol in the library and had an open bottle and the librarians were quick to remove him from the premises and they did so with grace. I don't think that should impact the library rating itself because the library did what It should've done. Minus one star for having to pay for parking, no food on the inside, slightly limited tables, and not allowing eating on the inside. read more

I am obsessed with this library! The moco library app is super easy to use. I love that if the book you're looking for is at another library, you can place it on hold and have it brought to Bethesda. The library is very easy to navigate and staff is friendly and helpful. If you are in no mood to speak with any one, self check out is easy peasy. read more

People living in the parking lot. A man is living in the parking lot. He has a dog and sleeps in a white van. He also keeps a stolen shopping cart of something blocking a the sidewalk for wheelchair access. read more

Bethesda Library - Man living in a van down by the library. - Libraries Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

The library only has metered parking, no free customer parking on weekdays, free on weekends. Meters take coins but not bills and no credit cards, only phone app. There is a county garage across the street that takes credit cards but charges on Saturdays. Computers are 2 hour time blocks. Plenty of computers during the day. Plenty of desks and quiet rooms for study. Several rooms with events. Library is right in downtown Bethesda between Giant and Bethesda Elementary, across from Bethesda row, so very convenient. Close to Bethesda metro and buses. read more

Don't come here thinking you want to sit quietly to read a book or get some work done as an adult. Kids come here to just run around and make a lot of noise. The quiet study room and group study rooms have zero soundproofing feature so it is really noisy all the time. The librarians won't do anything about it. I won't ever come back here again. read more

There's a problem here, folks. Visited on 9/13 at 4pm. One gent at the circulation desk. Asked about a title and he advised this branch didn't hold the title. Sent us to the info desk to place on reserve. Fine. But, no one there; no one ever came! Checked with several other ee's or volunteers....all stated that they didn't know when the desk would be attended. The gent at the circulation desk just shrugged his shoulders. After a 10-minute wait, we departed for the Potomac Branch. When we arrived in Potomac, plenty of staff and....contrary to the Bethesda branch's pronouncement, their status check showed the title to be available in Bethesda and elsewhere. One last comment.......downtown Bethesda. I get it. But, really, parking meters to use the library? Unsatisfactory, I'll keep my library business in my neighborhood. read more

I almost instantaneously felt at home in this library during my first visit. It was during my second visit that I identified why. The ground level entrance teeming with people of all ages is both modern and a reminder of my childhood moments at my local library. There are many self check out kiosks but I heard staff helping patrons in person. I also had great customer service the two times I needed it. The first was after my first visit when I was able to check items out. For some reason, which according to the gentleman who helped me, happens periodically, the items did not show up as checked out on my account. I called and he fixed it and thanked me; otherwise, the library would have had to mark them as missing. The second time, I think I spoke to the same person. I called from the Silver Spring library. I was there to look for an item that was identified as there but was apparently missing. I checked with Bethesda and he said they had it and promptly went to get it and then place it at the information desk for me rather than on the hold shelf. Grateful, I hurried over and spoke with someone at the desk and was able to check it out. I also liked that the restrooms are near the entrance, that there are plenty of windows and desks and chairs, and that there was a separate and big area for kids. Additionally, I think they have an honor system where you can purchase books too. The DVD collection is pretty good and they have a range of items in different languages. Parking is quite plentiful. Despite the library being busy, there was still ample space for cars. It also helps that the library is a five minute stroll from the Bethesda metro station. read more

I love the library. My kids love the library. They have a great space to go, hang out for a bit, pick up some books for the kids, and a great selection of books. I love libraries, but I'm terrible at reading books quickly enough to make taking them out of the library work for me. The kids' books are perfect for this though. You can get a handful of picture books, or juvenile fiction books without having to buy books that will just end up sitting around unused 99% of the time. We've worked our way though most of the Jack & Annie/Magic Treehouse series with our 5-year-old this way and gotten a bunch of fun board and picture books for our 2-year-old as well. There's a really nice kids room with low tables and chairs where kids can sit and do homework, read books, or hang out with family without having to worry about the usual library atmosphere you might be expecting. Kids can mostly be kids. read more

The space was clean, clear and professionally managed. The rooms felt private and transparent to give a sense of community. The design for the public space is excellent! read more

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I am obsessed with this library. This library was my refuge during long summers. I had a routine where I would walk around the Bethesda Row area, stop for a shave ice at Clayboy's, and then make my way over to the library to read for hours in the children's corner. I got lost in the likes of authors such as Phyllis Reynolds Naylor, Judy Blume, and Meg Cabot, before the wonderfully kind librarians introduced me to young adult realistic fiction. I've also used some of the other resources at the library such as the computer stations and DVD rentals (from the year 2003-2006). I recently called this library at the start of the pandemic because I realized I had lost access to their database in my Libby app. They informed me that the system had accidentally removed a bunch of their members. The responding librarian was so eager to help me regain access. Libraries are such an invaluable resource in society, and I hope to see this particular branch continue on in perpetuity. read more

This library does not protect patrons from exposure to hard core pornography being accessed by other patrons on the library terminals located in the center of the library. The privacy screens are not actually private as anyone walking by one of these computers can fully see what is on the screens. When I asked about this, the librarian told me that this was permitted by the library for intellectual freedom reasons. While I understand this goal in theory, what it means in practice is that the library is protecting the rights of those who want to view pornography over the rights of those who may be harmed from unwanted exposure to these images (e.g., children and those who may be triggered). read more

The current rating for this library is 3 stars and I'd call that accurate. When I'm going to a library, I'm most likely going for a quiet place to study. A quiet place, convenient parking, clean bathrooms, and nearby places to grab coffee/snacks are what I look for in a good study spot. This library somewhat succeeds on 2 out of 4: they have a quiet study room and there's plenty of food/drinks since it's in downtown Bethesda. Unfortunately, the quiet study room is next to the collaboration rooms and the walls are not even remotely soundproof, resulting in a quiet study room that is actually not that quiet. The bathrooms are small and often occupied; even when they're not, they're pretty gross by public bathroom standards. I'm also pretty sure that this and Silver Spring are the only libraries in MoCo in which you have to pay to park ($1/hour), making long study sessions here inconvenient and expensive. I come here to study on weekends because they are open later than other area libraries and parking is free on weekends. This branch is larger than others in the area so you may have better luck finding the book you want here as opposed to elsewhere. All that said, I much prefer Little Falls library over this one. It's not as crowded, parking is free, and their quiet study room is actually quiet. If they were open as late as Bethesda library I'd go there every time. read more

Small library with ample parking! Parking is metered though, so make sure to bring coins or ready your smartphone Mobile Now app. It's a bit of an older library, with limited computer work stations, however it's also not the busiest library in the area. It is quiet as a library should be, there is always help available, and they keep the book selection pretty up to date. Not too much to complain about! Great central location too. Right on Arlington Rd. read more

I absolutely love this library. We can always find every title we are looking for. We rarely have to search other branches. Love the children's section & young adult section with many areas to just chillax & read in peace without lots of loud noise. This is one of those quiet libraries. Love it. read more

Bethesda Library - Libraries Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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This is our favorite public library in the area. It recently underwent significant renovations and has been re-named as the Connie Morella Library. Selection is quite good and the staff is extremely thoughtful and caring. It can be a bit noisy once in a while but that's not surprising since these days, public libraries also serve as community-based centers, hosting and/or showcasing everything from local artists to community events in one of their available meeting rooms, to reading rooms, and areas for tutoring and service offerings (technology assistance for seniors, ESOL services for adults, etc.) read more

I've gone to a lot of public libraries because I think they are great places to get a lot done. This library is okay. My first time coming here I think I had higher expectations for it than I should have. It was very full for a Saturday, which is fine but it was also very loud, even in the areas that are dedicated as quiet quarters. The staff was fine when I asked a question so thats okay. Nothing extraordinary. This library is actually pretty small, its all on one floor and was very packed so I was not able to find seating easily. The computers they have are antiquated and all being used at the same time, so make sure you come with your own laptop if you need to use one. The wifi was a decent speed and connection, so thats good. Thats not always the case with every cafe or library. I finally started feeling like it was quiet enough to do work around 5:15 and 15 minutes later they announced that the library would be closing in 30 mins... welp... there goes my productivity... At least it was quiet for a few moments... read more

Bethesda Library - Antiquated computers - Libraries Near Me - Bethesda, Maryland

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It is definitely not the newest nor the nicest library among the Montgomery County Public Library system, but it is the nearest location for me, so I frequent the Bethesda branch. As many reviews mentioned, it is a relatively small library, but I have never experienced any difficulty finding a table to read or study. The Quiet Room in the back of the library is nice if you need to stay away from distractions and noises. I typically put a hold on books that I want to read and head over to the library once I get a notification that my book is ready for pick up. It is really convenient and saves me from mindlessly searching for the book. I also like their 21-day Express books, which are newly released titles and bestsellers that cannot be renewed. This system allowed me to skip the long waits for popular books and I take advantage of it frequently. The library staff is friendly and helpful. Recently, I returned a book that I had borrowed in their outside drop-off box. However, the book remained on my account for days afterwards. Not wanting to pay unnecessary fees, I called the library, explained the situation, and inquired about the book. They were courteous and quickly resolved the issue. They have a large parking lot in front, but it is metered parking until 7 PM on weekdays. You can also park for free on weekends. read more

This is a wonderful library, I'm from Damascus and stopped in here to use the internet connection (my Android hot spot was giving me fits today) I may be accustomed to less but this library is spacious, quiet, had what I wanted, I even had a decent place to park. I did not have to offer my Montgomery County library card to use the wifi read more

When I first went to this library I was expecting a lot. I had already been to the library in Silver Spring(which is quite small and does not have a large collection) and was not impressed. As a teacher I was quite impressed with Bethesda's children's selection(that is until I went the the new library in Rockville which is amazing!). The staff was very friendly when I needed help to find a book for a project. I like to just find a book, instead of actually having to look for one. Every time I have come to this library-I feel like I have to work really hard on finding a semi-decent book to read. I am not sure exactly why but I would have to guess it has something to do with the displays or lack there of. On a high note-they do have a large quantity of computers that are available. Decent library but If i had a choice I would go to the Rockville library. read more

After ''browsing" through books at Barnes and Nobels for a bit, I felt like I should just get myself to the local library and do that same in silence and without guilt. Being new to the hood, I had to look up where the library was and was a little shocked that the parking lot was metered. I was hoping to spend hours here, but I guess I had to work faster now since I'm paying for the time. Be careful though, there are ONE hour spots and THREE hour spots. Pretty much self explanatory of where everything is. Reference Books, Kids Books, Children's books. There were lots of people checking in and checking out books, mostly parents and seniors. Inside the library, most people were set up in the desk areas, using the computer. I guess no one goes to the library to read anymore. ... I sat myself down at one of the stations, which had an outlet for my laptop. Perfect. The desk had enough space for my bags and books. Perfect. Found the free WiFi. Perfect. The chair and desk was standard size so I was comfortable and ready to work... and I was powering through until... ... the lady next to me picked up her cellphone and told her friend that, "I'm in the library," and not in her library voice. Her conversation ended about 4 minutes later... ... a man plopped himself down in a nearby chair and cracked opened a 3 inch thick autobiography on Truman, and it smelled like he hadn't showered since Truman was in office. It was about time for me to go anyway since my meter was about to expire. I grabbed a few of the books I was browsing through and went to go check them out ... and then realized that I needed to sign up for a library card! The lady at the counter was super nice. I had to just show her a photo ID and proof I lived in Maryland to qualify... I used my car registration since I still have an out of state DL. Got the card and access to all its services online. Great place to go work for bit, just watch your meter. read more

Great little library in convenient location. I just love their cookbook section! They have a terrific selection of clean, like-new books. I even found quite a few from the current best sellers list! So nice to be able to really review these books before deciding whether to buy or not! I do wish they'd offer an easier way to log in for renewals. I don't carry the library card with me so it made it challenging and I've ended up paying a few fines. You do have to pay the meter to park, but, isn't that the case everywhere these days? read more

A great little library in Bethesda! I haven't actually had a chance to get a library to check out books yet (I suppose that's a big part of what a library is for... oops, I'll get around to that!) But I love studying/working here! If you're one who needs absolute (or close enough) silence, there's a quiet glass-enclosed reading room with about 20 (approx) cubicles that each have their own outlets (perfect if you have electronics, phones, lap tops, etc that need to be charged). If you can't take such silence, there's plenty of working space in the main area, whether you need a table, a computer, a cubicle, etc. There's also a group study room in the back, too.Their wifi works fine for me. They have some books when you first enter that they sale... pretty nice collection. I guess, I should go back and check out their collection of books and then maybe will need to update this. But definitely a nice place to study in Bethesda! read more

After a long wait it looks clean and cozy. Hopefully users will keep it the way it is for the sake of future users.

I have had a returned book not credited and had to find the book in the stacks and return it a second time. This has happened several times. Once I couldn't find it in the stacks - apparently it went to a different library. That was a bigger hassle. I tried paying an overdue fine by credit card. I filled out the form, and got a strange error at the end. Something about the zip code. So I used their help system to ask what the problem was. They gave me a generic, we are not going to check it response. Make sure there are no extra characters. Try a different browser. This was several months ago. With a different card, and a different browser, I still today get the same error. As do many others, I'm sure. But what do they care? They are not into customer service, or checking things to see if they work. They are, most of all, government. read more

This review is for a "Wireless Wednesday" session at the Bethesda library, offered by MCPL, and not for the facility itself. WW sessions are 30 minutes, one-on one, and by online appointment. While at the library, I saw a sign for similar sessions on Saturdays that are open to all. For some reason, those aren't on their website. At WW sessions, people learn to access the library's eBooks/materials using whatever device they have - kindle, ipad, iphone, etc. The materials, and the website used to access them, differ from the MCPL's paper book catalog and website (to which I'm accustomed). So, I brought my devices and was walked through the process. Simple, right? My session took an hour, likely because I had two devices (and am technologically lazy). Luckily the next session was open. We set up the accounts/apps necessary to borrow materials, and did a search, check-out and return on each device. First with the Kindle, then with my iPhone. The systems aren't as intuitive or streamlined as I'd like, but after being walked through the process it'll be a piece of cake! Next I'll tackle the DCPL's system, which I hope is similar. I'm glad I happened across this class at MCPL's website. I love to read, and can now access MCPL's eBooks anywhere/over Wi-Fi on my kindle & phone. read more

I don't have any idea what their book selection is like, or how nice the staff is, but I do know that it's a nice place to get work done. It feels open and spacious with lots of windows that let the light in. They have a large quiet room in the back, in addition to a couple of group rooms that are first come first serve. It can be super annoying having to not only pay for parking, but to have to move your car every 3 hours, but I can always find parking spots to move to, and the metro is really close by. The bathrooms are kind of scary and dark, but not as bad as the Cleveland Park library (shudder). read more

The Bethesda Library--renamed Connie Morella Library seems nice the renovation--is nice inside. The remodeled and updated the library, while keeping the same footprint and structure. The staff are sort of dispassionate. They do not seem overly passionate about books and some are more customer-oriented than others. Still, all staff are pleasant enough. The library offers free parking on weekends. read more

This is a great library for spending an afternoon. It is usually full, but not too full, of people working and reading quietly. You can check out books even if you forgot your library card at home. There is a phone-charging station where you can lock your phone up safely while it charges. You can go in if you don't have a library card. If you want a library card, it's easiest to fill out the paperwork online and then go in to pick it up with your ID. There's a decent set of e-books available, though not as extensive as in the Chicago Public Library system. read more

Ok library, not great. At least the new carpet makes it feel clean but the children's librarian clearly doesn't like kids and is quite rude when asked questions. Circulation desk staff can't answer questions. read more

Great library. Fully stocked with books AND helpful employees.

The one star might be a bit harsh but I dont ask for alot in a library. Quiet and for books to be available. I've been to this library twice to do those things and found it not good at all. On the sound front, some people can study with noise I struggle. Its very noisy in the general areas in the library. Even in the quiet room it was noisy, so thats a no go. Finding books is hard. Either their checked out or at other sites. If you need something now you might be in trouble read more

When they first re-opened the Bethesda library after a major renovation, I was very impressed with the modern appearance of the interior - except that they eliminated the front entrance on Arlington Road (not a big deal)- and also the computers which were, of course, brand-new at the time. Unfortunately, the Internet connection (on average) tends to be slow at most of the public libraries (reminds me of the computer labs when I was in college, which also had high-speed Internet connections which are not-so-high in speed when shared.) As for the selection of books, I have noticed that the Montgomery County libraries often don't carry what i actually want. Luckily there is Interlibrary Loan for those cases when my reading tastes are significantly different from those of other people in the county. Interlibrary Loan via "Marina" (for books from other Maryland county libraries) is very fast. read more

The librarians are not very friendly. I work a block away and come for quiet during lunch. One day their alarm system was going off near the front door and not knowing if they knew already I told one of the librarians about it. The one I told barely looked at me and said "We know." in a short tone. I was just doing them a favor by letting them know. Also the library is rather dirty and not well lit. read more

I'm an avid reader and I was soo excited to visit the Bethesda library since my new job is right down the street. My excitement ended pretty quickly when the lady at the counter was rude to me and the person in front of me. Like other reviews stated, they act like they're doing you a favor and you're inconveniencing them. I can't even speak to their books because I wanted to get a new library card, she told me (while being short about it) that their system was down and there's nothing she could do. Then she just looked at me waiting for me to walk away. I would rather pay for a book at Barnes & Nobles or travel to the Rockville library then come back. Bethesda is a great community, this just isn't a good representation of it. read more

I moved to Bethesda three years ago and am so happy to be able to walk to the library. I love the renovations and the new children's programs they have implemented. I volunteer twice a month with my dog for the children reading to dogs program. This program allows children to gain the confidence to read aloud as they are not being judged by the dogs. I am always impressed by the organization of this program and the enthusiasm from the staff at the library. It's also a great after school activity for many of the students from the local schools. I have also helped with the toddler program on Friday's and the children enjoy the activities set up by the staff. These programs are so important to the community as it allows children and parents to interact with each other. I am in the library frequently and am happy to see many people taking advantage of the used book sale and it's also great to have someplace to donate my used books. In this day and age of technology I am so happy to see everyone enjoying the non technological aspects of this facility. read more

It is a decent building, but I find a majority of the staff to be extremely rude. I have tried to go twice, but will stick to e-books. I would imagine that most people that become librarians get joy out of helping children learn to read, supporting those with reading disabilities, or proactively help people find resources. I don't get the sense that that is how these librarians feel. When I asked a question about library resources I was scowled at, she half heartedly looked something up on line and then stared at me (apparently just hoping I would leave). Such a shame... growing up my public library was a great resource. It's a shame my kids can't have the same experience. read more

Chris was rude when I inquired about tax services.

This is an okay library. If you need a book, you can order it and it will be there in a few days. I am giving it three stars because of the "quiet room", which is rarely quiet. I wish the librarians would enforce that the quiet room stay quiet. That means no whispering.... I can't work with noise or chatter, but that's just me. read more

My memories of Bethesda Library in the early 19 60's are some of the nices of my childhood! The children's section was brimming with wonderful books, which I found simply by browsing. From that library came books on amateur dramatics inspiring me to put on plays with my best friend, wonderful mystery stories, books on arts and crafts, and the wonderful "Little Maid " books. If I could enter a portal in time for even a few moments I would choose to revisit the Bethesda library of my childhood. I can only hope it's as child-friendly and inspiring today. read more

We are lucky to have this little gem in the neighborhood. I find the staff very helpful and courteous. Love the resale racks! Keep up the good work. read more