Needing a safe public space to meet up with a stringed musical instrument seller, this library fit the bill! It was midway between cities, offered plenty of parking and a warm place in the "Friends of the Library" Bookstore for me to quietly evaluate a potential purchase. The staff was gracious in allowing us to do so at one of the tables. Beforehand as we waited for the seller to arrive, I saw a healthy buzz of activity with people arriving, returning books and using the library, many with littles in tow. As an avid reader, it felt good to see this. From my brief peek into the high ceiling main room, the library looked very comfortable. There's a small playground west of the library, but at the time of this review, was fenced off. Perhaps undergoing a refresh. Overall, a library with a pleasant vibe. read more

Cute, quiet, large area for small children to learn and play. Very nice parents and librarians. The parking lot is so small with very small spaces. We cannot wait to come back! read more

Castro Valley Library - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Nice clean library. Friendly staff. Came here multiple times with my kids as a chaperone for their school fieldtrips. They sometimes have fun activities for littles ones. Great book selection for kids and adults. Movie rentals are available also. read more

This library is on the newer side compared to other ones in nearby cities. I think this opened maybe 10ish years ago? It is a HUGE upgrade compared to the old library near the high school. The inside is huge and with the tall ceilings, it makes it look even bigger. Everything is always so neat and organized when I go. They have several private study rooms. Multiple computers throughout to use. Big children's area. The staff have been very pleasant with me whenever I needed something. I highly recommend this library! read more

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this lady told me to turn off my music, actually my movie saying that I can't listen to myself only way I can listen to it with earbuds and she don't tell other people to be quiet and stuff so it is not fair read more

Castro Valley Library - This lady, I don't know her name, but she needs to get fired for telling me to turn off my movie and turn down my movie - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

A wonderful a public library. It's part of Alameda County so it has the same holidays as the County buildings. Also noting that they are always closed on Fridays! Spacious library with lots of parking. Staff are always friendly and helpful. I noticed that they host events in the parking lot with live music every so often but never actually attended one. It's a nice library to get your kids off the screen and read a book. read more

I love this library! It's the main place I go to check out books. Pros: - Clean, modern look. Doesn't look outdated at all. - Wide selection of books and pretty organized depending on what you're looking for! My favorite section is the one that is straight ahead when you walk in, it has "new" books in general categories like nonfiction, mystery, romance, etc. - Has a pretty wide children's section, which can get become a louder section of the library - comfortable chairs for reading, I don't mind staying here for a while to do work/read. - has outlets in some of the workdesks if you have to stay there for a while - Friendly staff - Easy machines to check out books on. Cons: - I usually bring earphones because sometimes it's not as quiet as regular libraries, but I don't mind! - Not open on Fridays read more

Love this library. Check out the seed library! What's great about this library is that it also has a small park in the back that's great for kiddos that live to climb. read more

My kids love this library. It clean and comfortable to enjoy books and event there. The staffs there is nice and super helpful.

Always able to put books on hold and tyrnnaroind time os great! Jist go insode and pock up and check out!

Friendly staff, clean, quiet and spacious. Very kids friendly as well. Highly recommend!

I have been here numerous times. Place is beautiful, well organized and sustainable. Staff members are always nice. It is one of the alameda county library branches that I love! My kids are in a coding class right now and instructors are super nice. read more

Castro Valley Library - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Castro Valley Library is hiding in plain sight not far from Redwood Rd./580. it's next to the CHP building. seeing the huge backside of the building, it was obviously a library. big cavernous room sectioned off into children's section in room , fiction, non fiction book, dvd's left in open hall. lots of tables to study read at. lots of books within, didn't see many fitting my interest: reads: -big short" detailed the 2008 financial crisis when credit default swabs (CDO) blew up/crashed , AIG, wall street got bailed out, consumers shafted. highlights who made $$ from the '08 crash. -."Hoodwicked": how foreign countries were tricked into borrowing $$ for infrastructure upgrades. when they defaulted, natural resources were seized, austerity imposed on economy as condition for more loans. leaders who didn't want loans were deposed. (Iran, Chile, Panama....) -"Boomerang" : stories of economic bubbles that popped recently. (Iceland, Ireland, Germany, etc.) "the Fifth RIsk" is a tale of an presidential administration fed. agency staffers who priortizes derangulation, privatization of public resources for profit, older academic books ala Fukuyama "Man ,,, End of History: MIA good sized parking area as with many Alameda County branches. they are closed on Fridays. read more

Tons of book selections. They offer many fun workshops including reading, poetry and creative writing. Kind staff are always ready to help navigate around the library resources via email and telephone. Serving curbside pickup for ease. Walking distance from BART. Spacious parking lot. read more

I love taking kids there. There is a story time I love taking toddler there. Very clean. Staff is very helpful

Perfect place to study if you're someone like myself who needs complete silence. I love and appreciate how they have sections by volume levels. There's no other place in Castro Valley that I study better at because of the peace and quiet I can attain here. Also, every person working here has been more than helpful and patient with any and all questions I've had. When I first got my library card, back in January I came in frantically looking for a book for school and CV library didn't have it, but the librarian helping me went out of her way to call the San Lorenzo library and ask if they had it, and had them put it on hold for me. Another little thing I like is that some of the desks are adjustable in the fact that you can make them higher or lower, and there's outlets everywhere. read more

Castro Valley Library - Love this volume feature. - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

hard to believe the lack of complaints - this is another "library" that's been turned into a community center hence no longer quiet like a Library should be frequently there are children squealing...making way too much noise in general...running...which they're not supposed to be doing At a minimum...they should have installed doors to cordon off the kids part of it At a maximum they should renovate the old library and move the kids stuff to THAT location and convert the kids area into a QUIET computer room read more

I stopped by the Castro Valley library on a recent Sunday to obtain a new Alameda County Library card. I often use the Libby app to pull Kindle books automatically from my library, and I noticed, as a California resident, I could get an Alameda Library card as well. This would let me choose books from libraries from both Alameda and Contra Costa County. Castro Valley Library is very impressive, starting with a beautiful building and an immense parking lot. What I hadn't expected was that the library would be such a visual treat - art and design considerations are reflected throughout the library. The library entryway has a beautiful "Tree of Knowledge" sculpture, it's branches spreading widely over the two entry walls. Inside, the main reading room upper walls are adorned with more artwork, a " Leaf-scape", its beautiful translucent tiles like pages of myriad books. Lovely murals in the Children's room are also worth checking out. Getting my new library card was a very pleasant experience. The library was welcoming and friendly, telling us throughout the processing of the new card various aspects of the library to see for first timers. They even have a booklet describing all the library art! I was concerned that maybe the website might've erred in stating you didn't have to be a resident of Alameda County to get a card, but no, the subject never came up. In five minutes I had my new card! In spite of it being a Saturday afternoon, and the library being quite full, it seemed fairly quiet to us, none of the noisy environments some of the reviewers have encountered. We were wowed by the ability to borrow a laptop or tablet through a kiosk. Ironically, and in spite of the large size of the main reading room, I was not overly impressed with the amount of books on site. Our local library in Clayton, dramatically smaller than the Castro Valley library, has a comparable sized book collection. This surprised me, but perhaps is the future as libraries move to digital vs physical books. The periodicals on site were varied and numerous, however. Castro Valley library certainly can be considered among the East Bay's fine collection of new, modern libraries. read more

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Medium sized and clean, void of personality... this utilitarian facility will serve you well for research or quiet time. Gets the job done with lots of space to spread out. Modern and it has everything you've come to expect from a library: internet, DVDs and lots of books and magazines. Libraries are getting bigger and nicer in the area - a very large one just recently opened in Hayward... I suppose the city has too much tax money they collected and need to get rid of. read more

A true community library! If you would like to find a wonderful selection of books, and an ever-helpful staff, PLUS a great selection of weekly events ranging from community meetings and book groups to interesting hands-on workshops for folks of all ages, movies, and live music, this is the library to visit! read more

When the lockdown seemed imminent, I made the executive decision to borrow as many books as possible from as many library systems as possible so that we'd have a stockpile for the unknown period of time everything would be closed. I thought our stack of 90 library books would be enough to get through the weeks or months ahead. Two weeks passed, two months passed. Books were read, re-read, re-read again, over and over. We put them on hiatus, revisited them, shuffled the deck. But realistically, you can only read the same books so many times. After five months of reading the same books, in the height of our desperation, Alameda County reopened its libraries for curbside pick up! Thank goodness for no contact curbside pickup and an online book reservation system. My kid is a voracious reader/listener when it comes to story time, and we're burning through about 50 books every 10 days. Whomever invented the "do you want to add 5-10 children's book" option is the smartest person in the room and deserves a raise. read more

Best library out there i've been going since i was a kid playing barbie web games on the kids computers and now i've upgraded to the teen area. the selection is wide and they have EVERYTHING you need (printers, computers for rent, movies, enough parking, bathrooms, and comics) love going here to get my mind off of things and pretend i'm mysterious. read more

Employees slow. Not friendly and don't seem capable to help with tech help. I rarely go to this library. I went perhaps a dozen times before drawing my conclusions stated above. read more

I came on a Saturday with a decent amount of people of all ages here so my review is largely based on that. Overall, a really good library. (scroll to the bottom my internet speed review) [01. Noise level]: LOW - It is quite here but not so quite that you can't talk to a couple people you might be working on a project with. Might want to keep some headphones with you if your doing solo work, but the noise would not be that bad if you forgot them at home. [02. Environment]: Spacious and Inviting, but could use more tables - Lots of natural light from big windows all over the place,plus lots of even soft lighting throughout to give plenty of light for reading or working on projects without being too harsh. You'll still have some glare on laptop screens but its not bad at all. - Decent amount of seating, I wish there was more, but it's a medium sized library so I guess it's alright for the size. Most of the tables here have two outlets per seat which is really good. If not two, then at least 1 which is perfect. [03. Resources]: Plentiful - Tons of computers to use, almost as many free computers to use as empty seats/tables. Maybe even more actually, and this is in both the main area and the children's section. - Lots of pamphlets and informational flyers for internet resources accessible only with a library card which is really cool. You can even check out a wi-fi hotspot with UNLIMITED DATA for 21 days, how cool is that? I haven't tried it, but it is definitely worth a look. - I haven't checked out the books, CDs, etc because I dont really do that lol. Im mostly here for the seats and internet and the toilet all of which are on point, so I cant really speak on the items they have for checkout, but there are definitely a lot of those. [04. INTERNET]: IT'S AMAZING - It's so fast it hurts my eyes - Seriously library internet runs circles around google wifi from Starbucks, and probably much faster than your own home internet. - 70+ Mbps down and 30+ Mbps up? Sheesh! It's so fast it should get a speeding ticket. lol. Seriously though, I love how fast it is. --- Again overall this is a very good library, I just wish it was bigger so it could have more seats and tables, otherwise everything else is really good. read more

Castro Valley Library - 70+ Mbps down and 30+ Mbps up? Give this library a ticket, it's almost TOO fast lol. Runs circles on Google/Starbucks wifi, ATT and Comcast! - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Recently constructed library with self automated checking system. The library is vast and offers spacious seating. Perks are lots of new books, audio, dvds, private rooms and also Ipad borrowing. The facility is state of the art. Only downside is the noise cause people tend to not follow the rules. Plenty of parking but watch out for the weekend since families tend to gather. read more

Spacious environment and generally quiet and clean. I wish they would remain open on Fridays espcially during exam seasons.

A true gem. I absolute LOVE this library! You can catch me in the back in the quiet area enveloped with great reads like Jared Diamond, Michelle Alexander, Neal Gabler, Murakami, Mark Levin or Fitzgerald. I love getting a seat facing the window, it offers a good break from reading/studying. I always sit facing the window bc of the views. The windows are huge and offers natural light to enter in and is even more beautiful on a rainy day. Whether I'm here for self indulgence, research, or quiet studying, this is my go to place for zoning out. Usually you can get a nice quiet table to yourself, other times you may have to share with another. I've never not enjoyed being here, I've even left briefly (with everything behind except my wallet) to grab a coffee from Peets down the street. The ambiance is usually calm and peaceful. And if there's someone who's forgotten to turn the volume down, the staff are proactive in getting them on board. Good size library. Computers for those that need their internet fix or don't have a laptop of their own. Kids library packed with good reads for the little ones. And a study section that's closed off for special services. Enough staffing to answer questions and help find books. Thank you! read more

Castro Valley Library - Don't mind if I do - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Super nice library, with self check out and friendly staff who helped me with self checkout.

We began making use of the library when our son entered Kindergarten and needed some challenging reading. Wow! The library resources are awesome! I especially like the online catalog (available from home as well) and the ability to easily request resources from other libraries in the county. We have found a number of online resources too: ebooks, audio books, etc. Libraries sure have changed since I was young! Castro Valley library offers a great atmosphere to browse the stacks and sit and read as well. We're real fans! read more

I still remember when this library moved from the old building (which sadly is still empty). Now it's so bright and spacious, rooms for events and a cafe with a mini used bookstore :) The area for children is perfect for a story time and little shows. The teen room has pretty comfy sofa bench seats; one thing though, it's definitely a room just for teens, not for studying or anything... has a few kids slide in next to me when I was studying years ago and question me flirtatiously/annoyingly ( and wouldn't leave me alone)... Thanks goodness Nathan (info desk) noticed I was bothered and told them off. Outside by the computers, there's plenty available to use and a large open area with large seats too. I can actually sit criss cross comfortably on a chair haha. Final Thoughts: It's so nice to have a beautiful local library to always come too :) read more

My daughter loves going to the library. Our usual library is the Fremont Main but since summer started we made it an "adventure" to check out as many Alameda County libraries that we could since we haven't been to all of them. The Castro Valley Library is kind of tucked away; coming from the freeway we almost missed it. The building itself is so modern. We were surprised to see such a fancy book return station outside. You place your books on a conveyor and you can even get a receipt for dropping them off. Parking is pretty easy (we went on the weekend) although the slots are a bit narrow. If you have a mini van, SUV, or truck you may be hugging the lines a lot. Keep that in mind-- no one likes to ever enter their car through the trunk but you do what has to be done! Inside the library is clean and spacious: lots of natural light, restrooms at the entrance, and clear signage hanging from the ceiling to identify each section. There are also meeting rooms that you can reserve (I made a mental note of this for work). The teen reading section is smaller than Fremont (the whole library is) but they had a decent selection of books my daughter liked in addition to "fun" reading like graphic novels and manga. The shelves were organized and rarely did i see stacks of books out of line. I really appreciated their "Lucky Day" and recommendation sections. They are in one spot in the center of the library and separated by genre so it was easy to see what was trending. I really loved this! I couldn't decide what to get so easily but once I made my choice I did take a photo of the others that I might want to come back for. You can check out multiple books at a time but I'm the type of reader that starts and stops when given too many choices so I usually just get one and call it a day. My daughter got at least 5 and even ordered more online for next time. Kudos to our local libraries for providing and maintaining their facilities. It's comforting to know that we have these little retreats in our communities where we can explore and disconnect from the electronics and spend time in an 'old school' way. Reading is the best! I subtracted a star for the hours of operation. I really wish they were open later since my husband and I both work during the day. By the time we get home CV is closed so we have to reserve our visits here for the weekend. Something to think to about. Maybe when school starts their hours will change? read more

Couldn't agree more with many of the reviewers on here.. this is what a library for the community ought to look, smell, feel, and sound like. The natural lighting... the delightful sage and amber colors of the carpet, the airyness, and the layout.. works. love the quiet corner.. the size, and the ample parking! Free wifi at libraries... but of course. read more

I am literally here right now, on a Sunday afternoon to get some work done in peace and quiet. Guess that won't happen. It is so loud in here! People are reading aloud, folks are on the phone, you can hear the front desk phone ringing loudly, the carts with the books to be re-shelved squeak like CRAZY, kids screaming, people listening to music with headphones yet you can hear what son they're listening to and they sing aloud. What the heck?! I'm not sure if it's because of the open design of this place that sounds seem to travel...it's like I'm in a cafe and not a library. *whisper* The library itself is beautiful but I won't be coming back. read more

Clean, quiet, modern. Great place to read or work on your laptop. Staff are helpful & knowledgeable. Great selection of books & magazines. read more

Love this pretty new library. For me: great selection of electronic books, now that I've finally crossed over to the paperless realm. For the kids: nice new children's section, more copies of the popular tween titles. For everyone, a nice snack bar in case all that browsing and reading makes you hungry. And the coolest thing: paws to read! Once a month, kids get a chance to read out loud, one on one, with gentle and sweet therapy dogs. Have a kid who doesn't like to read aloud, but loves dogs? Here's your solution! read more

I enjoy reading widely and wildly, therefore this is a nice spot for me with a variety of book collections. The range of books in this library is extensive, and you can read practically any type of book to expand your knowledge, making it a fantastic destination for book lovers and knowledge seekers. The library's collection comprises a wide range of publications, ranging from classic literature to the most recent best-sellers in categories such as fiction, nonfiction, history, science, and technology. In addition, the library provides access to a variety of online databases and tools that might help with research and study. It also provides guests with a friendly setting, with comfortable seating areas, study rooms, and computer workstations. Castro Valley Library appears to be an outstanding resource for both readers and learners, providing a varied variety of materials as well as a pleasant environment to explore and learn. read more

This is a medium large very modern library wirh lots of books and tons of other media. The one thing that surprised me about this library, is that they have a booth where you can check out a laptop or a tablet. I've checked out the notebook computer on several occasions and it worked fine. I've also had occasion to ask for assistance from the reference Librarians, as well as other employees here, and they have always been very helpful. read more

I brought my two nieces to the Castro Valley Library while I was in town. The building and furnishings looked new. I didn't get a chance to explore the whole facility, but we went into a large room where a ton of preschool aged children were participating in a story and activity time. There were some chairs set up in the back of the room for people who did not want to immerse themselves in the main gathering. My nieces weren't diggin' the vibe on the floor by the parachute. I think there were too many kids and too much going on for their preferences, so I took them to the children's book area. We were only there a few minutes before a hoard of people took over the space for another story time. My nieces were sitting in a comfy chair, so they sat there for a couple of stories. Afterward, the leader took all of the kids back into the huge room for a craft project. My 5 year old niece sat at a table and worked on her coloring, cutting, & gluing. My 20 month old niece wandered around the spacious room playing with the variety of toys spread out for the kids to play with. Listening to some of the other parents, it sounds like the library also hosts music classes. Based on my one visit, it seems like the Castro Valley Library really tries to provide a variety of age appropriate activities for children and their caregivers. What a blessing for the community. read more

Castro Valley Library - Castro Valley Library - Libraries Near Me - Castro Valley, California

This place is a really great branch, minus the awful parking (the parking lot is often full and most spots are compact). One thing that stands out about this location is that they use technology to allow patrons to check out and return books on their own through a scanning area. Soon they won't even need librarians anymore! There is also a wide selection of books, and they are arranged in such a way that makes this library look gigantic! Plenty of seating, very clean and looks new, and easy to navigate. read more

A standing ovation for the curbside pickup they've made available - my family normally loves going to the library and we have missed it these past months. The process is really simple. You reserve the books you want and when the requested item is available, you get an email letting you know, and a link to sign up for a pick up time. The items are left in bags on a table outside. The library handles returned materials 96 hours after they've been returned (which they note is when the virus is no longer traceable on library materials), I also let the books sit in the car for an extra 96 hours after I pick them up. The first time I requested they even included a craft with my kids' picture books which was such a nice touch. One super great feature if you have kids is that there's an option when you're reserving a pick up time to checkout an extra grab bag of 5-10 picture books along with your requested items. It's been so fun to be surprised what they pick. I kinda wish they did that for adult books! read more