With the invention of the internet, I rarely step into public libraries anymore, sadly to say. I love that this library has so much character and is still in tune with the old architecture of Pasadena. I came here to prep a bit for an interview I had in the neighborhood and this is definitely a spot i'd recommend to anyone wanting genuine peace and quiet so they can focus on whatever it is s/he needs. The place is like a mini maze with different rooms to roam through. I'm not sure how people are saying this library reminds them of a harry potter building, but if you are a kid, I think you can see some correlation. read more

This place is awesome! I started coming here in middle school, when our class came to learn how to do library research. Throughout high school, I would have my mom drop my sisters and I off at the PPL to "study," which meant that we did our homework and then walked to the now-defunct Pasadena Mall. =P Then, when I was at PCC, I'd come here to study and got a lot done. There are 2 wings that are incredibly quiet for studying. There's also a small room behind the information desk that is even quieter. You could hear a pin drop! That room is amazing, as it has cool historic information on the city of Pasadena. I'm preparing for my comprehensive exam for my Masters degree now and this place has become useful again. It's such a gem in the city. I probably won't be going back often after I'm done with school, but I'll always remember it as a lovely place that helped me get through all those years of school. read more

Cool building, but leaks. During rainy days it smells like homeless people and urine. Still a cool building. Definitely recommended. Oh! There is a little cafe outside that serves coffee and pastries. Cash only though! read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

Architecturally, the library is beautiful, much like the rest of old town Pasadena. Their collection is fairly extensive. Sometimes, they will not have books and movies but you can always request them from other libraries. I like that they have a self check out. The also have a DVD media box that you can reserve DVDs from. read more

Not what I had hoped for. Inconsiderate people on their phones, squeaky chairs, and several homeless people sleeping (and snoring!) in reading areas. Maybe because I came on a Sunday? Maybe because it was raining outside? Either way, I have no interest in coming back. Restrooms are old, dirty, and neglected. One stall had a broken lock and the other one was out of toilet paper. They probably have an impressive collection of books and a friendly staff, but this just isn't the place for me to get any work done. read more

Wheelchair bound, this is not the place if you need full access to the entire building. There is no elevator access to the 2nd floor, this being the only location of restrooms. Fortunately, my use of the library is limited to online materials. I have no need to ever use the interior of the building. Having moved to Pasadena in 2000, I had at that time obtained a library card which I had long ago forgotten. I recently called to find out whether their "Temporary" card (for those not using the physical location) could allow me permanent access. to online materials. After providing identification, I was given a bar code and Pin number which fully meets my needs. There are literally thousands of professional journals, access to which requires an expensive subscription, payment for each individual article, or the use of an academic library. The Pasadena library fully meets this latter need. It perfectly meets my requirements. I give this library four of five stars for two reasons: For those wishing to use the facility, it is reportedly dusty, dirty, and poorly maintained, with limited access to the handicapped. Specifically, restroom access is not available, reportedly being only on the 2nd floor with no elevator access. (If this is true, the City of Pasadena faces potential litigation being in violation of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act). read more

Great library with incredible resources for kids and adults. I love that they encourage early education with audio kiosk, iPad games and play area. Mia has found a new place to learn!! read more

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I love this library. I will always come when I need my quiet time. So many areas to roam and find a quiet spot for homework or study for that exam. I just wished that some patrons would try to remember that this is a library is NOT a local Starbucks where you can have your coffee and crumple and uncrumple your frickin' bag of breakfast! Worse part is, these people think they are alone! So selfish and I hope Library staff reads this because they need to be moving about the different spaces more. When there are staff around, people are less likely to eat (loudly) and do other stupid things they should not be doing. Then again, I wonder if all this is being done to draw attention. Well, I do not know but all I can say is, it's annoying. Yes, as another reviewer wrote, the homeless people who make it a habit of using restrooms etc. as their living quarters is a bit much. I do not know how to address that except write to the staff and ask them to look into a solution. BUT this is a public library right? read more

Visited Pasadena Public Library on a Sunday afternoon to escape the heat. Found the best parking space next to the entrance. I feel lucky. The reading room is now the CD and DVD room. Only 1 table left. Because the magazines and newspapers are in here, this creates jobs for the workers. J/K. It closed at 5pm on Sunday. When the clock strikes 5, they will hunt you down room by room and ask you to leave. This is a very nice library except the bathrooms need some remodeling. I will be back... read more

Very nice library. I love the architecture and you will find a table to do your work. I came on Sunday and it was a busy library. Feels like this library could be in a movie. Love it. would definitely come back. read more

Woohoo! As good as it gets! Someone will write a book one day about the Pasadena Central Library and it will find it's place on the shelf of this wonderful establishment. This place is the only reason I still visit libraries today - hoping that I'll stumble upon a place this amazing. From the fantastic cork floor to the toilets that sit 4 inches off the ground, this is a site to see. It makes me want to return my books on time and still pay late fees. read more

Beautiful Building. 1927 Myron Hunt--on the Nat'l Register of Historic Places. A great selection:books, dvds, cds, excellent archives. Parking is crowded as the Library is so popular, but they have overflow in the building up the street. Free wifi w/your library card. read more

Great selection of books, along with easy ordering of books not found in the central branch from other local libraries. The quick, automated check-out is simple to use and very convenient. read more

It's a really wonderful library. Great staff, beautiful surroundings, quiet, free wi-fi and decent selection of books. Small downside is the bathrooms are not the cleanest in the world but, if you don't have to use the bathroom, you'll have a wonderful library experience. Parking is busy but you can usually find a spot. Other than that if you live anywhere near Pasadena and want to go to a library you should go to PPL. read more

After reading the reviews, I paid a visit here to log a day of studying. I was really pleased with my experience. It's a beautiful library, didn't have any trouble finding a spot, it was quiet and not too many kids running around (if you stick to the reading rooms), and the WIFI was fast and consistent. Having been to a few other public libraries (SM, BH, DTLA), Pasadena emerged as the clear victor. Only downside was the parking -- limited since the courthouse is next door. --------------------- P.S. to the reviewers complaining about homeless people: where else are they supposed to go?? Yes, they can be smelly sometimes, but it's public services like this wonderful library that increase the chances that they can get off the streets and improve their lives. I think it's admirable to see homeless people in the library reading -- certainly more productive than developing a drug addiction and accosting people on the sidewalk. read more

Love this place! It's simply gorgeous and a great place to spend any evening. The architecture is gorgeous and they have the friendliest squirrels lol. read more

The library is beautiful! The librarians are okay. I know from watching, the other who seem to all of the work are treated horribly. I guess it's not important but when someone checking out the books doesn't even know who Sapphire (author of the book Push/ adapted into Academy award film Precious) is, or hasn't heard of Steinbeck it feels a bit pointless to find information there. There are good books, the movies that mostly come from Glendale are usually completely unwatchable. read more

Gorgeous library it's years of wear and tear at it's fringes like the creaking doors and floors, adds to it's charm. It has the old "stacks" and "stacks" of books on I think 3 levels including a basement which is rare for California structures. It has all the modern wi-fi and media just like most libraries! But beware, people come to listen to movies and TV on their devices! Some are loud and all types of people come to this branch! It is NOT like OC libraries! read more

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Sorry Kindle and Nook, I'm just not that into you. I love to read real books made out of paper that I can hold in my hands. I am a serious book dork... maybe that is why I am never really left school, but that is another story for another day. Anyway, I had a paper due a couple of weeks ago and the library at school did not have all of the books I needed. I went online and looked up the catalog at the Pasadena Public Library, which is just a few short blocks from my home. I was able to find the book I was looking for and whether it was available...it was. The website also gives you the shelf location in the library so you can just walk right in and grab it. And that is exactly what I did and the book was exactly where it was supposed to be. I had to get a library card and the gentleman behind the counter made the process quick and pleasant. I was in and out with my new library card and book in a matter of minutes. This beautiful library is book dork heaven! read more

Beautiful building and architecture. Friendly staff. You can check out books on your own. 3 levels. Nice little area for children. 2 entrances. Nice artwork. Quiet area for studying. Large spaces. read more

They have three levels of so many books, audios and dvd's, magazines, newspapers huge selections at this Library..There is no comparison to any other library they have archives of newspapers on microfiche to its dark wood elegant old fashion feel. I went several times with my older daughter to check out many different cook books and other books that she could not find at other librarys, she told me I know they will carry the books I need at this location. It never failed every single time whenever the Glendale Library was out of a certain book we would always find it here!' read more

Very huge library its pretty quiet inside which is awsome since many other places have chit-chating going on.

So I came here on a weekday to see if I can squeeze in a little studying. Immediately the architecture of this place is amazing and grand. I then found myself having trouble finding a spot to study. Almost every table I see is either occupied by a homeless sleeping or is actually being used to read/study. I really dont mind if they are sleeping but when you occupy a table for 6 with one person and their whole belongings it really defeats the purpose of even going to the library to read/study. Do the workers care? Not really read more

Charming historic building. Free Parking available. Donated books FREE to public for the taking. Charming interior design and layout. Features an interesting winding stairs and very high ceilings. Multi-level with massive selection of books, magazines and articles. Elevators are old and creaky. Plenty of study rooms, seating and fast and reliable FREE WI-FI. Bathrooms need a little more tender, love and care. Excellent customer service and librarians are very attentive. read more

Gorgeous old library, really love the study area and lots of great places to snuggle up with a book and read.

I love this library. The architecture is gorgeous and when you walk in it smells like wood and books. I think the library staff is also very friendly and knowledgeable (from the building to so many genres of books and to the city of Pasadena itself). I don't know whether I am disheartened or ashamed of some of the reviews which list homeless people as a reason not to visit this library or give it less than stellar reviews. People visit this library, human beings that are interested in knowledge, need a place to study, free wi-fi, a cool place on a hot day or a warm place on a cold day, a place to feel safe. I've never been bothered by anyone at this library. read more

This library is beautiful, although it could use a good thorough cleaning. They have a very good book selection and their hours are quite convenient. Their biggest problem is the influx of homeless people who are always there. I'm not judging them and I even sympathize with their plight, however, it's very difficult to concentrate when several of these homeless people use the establishment as their daytime sleeping quarters. The sound of their snoring will resonate throughout an entire study room! I wish the staff would do something about it like wake them up and let them know it's disturbing other patrons. I understand that they're homeless and tired, but some of us are there to STUDY and READ, which is what a library is for. Libraries aren't hostels! Some of the homeless people go to this library everyday, all day and they can be scary. I'm not joking. They talk to themselves and yell out vulgarities or try to start fights with people who are paying them no mind. I had a woman who reeked of marijuana literally try to fight me over a table while her children were present. It's crazy! Get some class, lady! read more

One of the most beautiful buildings in Pasadena. Didn't appreciate it when I was a college student studying there. Went back recently for a lecture and was awed by the architecture. read more

This library is absolutely beautiful. I'm not sure when it was built but it seems like it was somewhere in the 1920's. It reminds me of the big libraries that they show in the movies. The wood paneling on the walls is amazing. They have long tables with lamps for individuals to read/study. They have a separate room just for children's books. I want to go and spend the afternoon there one day. Go check it out some time and give yourself a couple of hours to wander around. It's really that beautiful. read more

I'm so stoked about this place, I'm dropping everything I came here to do to write this! Ever wonder what it felt like to be at HOGWARTS?! I know, many yelpers have commented about the Hogwarts-like architecture of this library, but it's a completely different feeling from just reading about it, to seeing and experiencing it. I literally felt like I was roaming through the Hogwarts' library when I stepped in here. The first floor has the most charm to it and is also the largest, with rooms opening into other rooms filled with tables to study on. I doubt anyone will have any trouble looking for a place to study. Also, the wifi here is very fast and you don't need a library card to access it. How amazing right?! And let's not forget about the awesome coffee cart in the patio area that allows you to bring drinks into the library. OH welcome back undergrad years when I lugged Panda Express and my double shot from Starbucks into the library for all nighters. Though, I highly doubt I'll be doing that here. The coffee cart in itself warrants its own review, so look out for that! So why no 5 stars? To start, the lighting is too dim in here to do any reading or writing. My almost legally blind eyes have to strain so hard to focus and this is even after I positioned myself right under the desk lamp, hoping for some extra light. I suppose the lighting adds to the charm, but it's a bit inconvenient for readers and writers. Besides, isn't that the primary reason why people visit the library, to read? Maybe if they switched up the yellow desk lamps with brighter and energy saving ones, my poor little eyes wouldn't have to work so hard and I can delay the onset of wrinkles. Also, the restrooms here can use some renovating. As much as I like the Hogwarts' charm this place has going on, I'm not too fond of Moaning Myrtle jumping out of a stall. It also smells like a men's restroom in there, or at least that's what I've been told a men's restroom smells like ;) I'm also hoping the wet floor I stepped on was wet due to a leaky toilet and not...well you know. Nevertheless, I plan to become a regular at this place even though it's a 20 minute drive from home. And thanks to my drink card from the coffee cart, I am determined to come back and fill that out so I can get a freebie. Oh the joys of being Asian :) Also, I'll be checking out the other Pasadena library branches in the area, but something tells me there's only one "Hogwarts" out there. read more

Love this librabry. It is huge and beautiful. Wonderful architecture. Lots of books. I am from India and never have had the experience of books loaned out for FREE. Seriously, God bless America. Now that I have a kid, I take my son to story times at libraries and it is wonderful that Pasadena has so many smaller branches and FREE story times on different days. Great place to take your young ones. I love the Santa Catlaina branch story time. The lady there, never got to know her name, is wonderful and sings enthusiastically and all the kids and moms seem to love her. I love all the children's book collection. Children's books are so expensive and thanks to Pasadena library system, will not have to spend a huge chunk of money to buy intersteing books for my son. read more

I found the Pasadena Library a few years ago. The building is amazing, both inside and out. They have an excellent selection of books, movies, music, etc. They also have a separate area for children, which I think is a great idea. Great place to study. There are several smaller rooms(silent areas) and an open space near the circulation desk (talking area). So it is great to move around to your preferred noise level. I absolutely love the outdoor cafe. It has limited hours but when I am lucky I make sure to stop by and grab a quick drink. The only issue is that there are a lot of homeless people, especially in the computer lab. This has been one of the main reasons why I stopped going there as frequently as I used to. Now I just bring my own laptop when I need to get some work done. HINT: the power outlets are underneath the tables. People can never seem to find them. read more

Love this library for architecture & knowledgable librarians. I get work done here a lot too, plenty seating & quiet. However, it's overly policed by security, thus, 4 not 5 stars. read more

Maybe it's cause I nerd out at the sight of all the available literature and information, maybe it's the free parking out back, maybe it's the beautiful building inside and out, or the fantastic and helpful children's story time programs...hmm actually it's all of the above and more that I love about this library! read more

I just found the Pasadena library recently. It's the ultimate study spot. There's a section in the front for group studying then several smaller tables sprawled around for peace and quietness! As you walk in there's a DVD revolver type thing to in order to rent movies. Free wifi and free a/c. Also a coffee cart incase hunger arises! The only reason I had to take one star off is because parking is limited to 3 hours. I saw parking enforcement marking tires with chalk, which means every 3 hours I have to pack all my things and move my car. There's plenty of spots to park in (the back) which is free! Since everywhere else in Pasadena seems to be charging just to park my car. I found parking rather quickly but I can see why people complain about the parking. There were several cars just waiting out front like vultures. I parked in the last row and walked on in, no biggie! Other than that it's perfect :) read more

Central Library Pasadena Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Pasadena, California

I'm a (non-chain) book store and library hound. As in, I look for them in any new city I'm visiting and if possible, I check them out. Book stores more than libraries, which have to look especially compelling. I think I can say the Pasadena Central Library is my favorite library. More so than libraries of big cities like L.A. or SF. The Bads: 1) Old (this is not really that bad of a thing for me). 2) Popular books are often checked out (I hope this isn't mind blowing). 3) Sometimes I wish some of the amenities like the chairs were more plentiful and comfortable. 4) The decor can be blah in some parts of the library. 5) Parking can be tough sometimes. I can wait an average of 10 minutes on maybe 1 out of 10 visits? So yeah, nothing too serious. Most of the time there's a space open. 6) I wish there were more power outlets sometimes. The Goods: 1) The decor overall is pretty cool. Love the historic feel. Pretty much balances out the "old" complaint. 2) They have a projection theatre inside for events. Sometimes they have free blood pressure screenings and other community events. 3) The suggested books they put out in the main lobby are usually pretty good choices. 4) Lots and lots and lots of rooms to study in. These rooms range from the computer center underground to the historic books collection in the back to the main lobby to the children's room to the periodicals room to the numerous side study rooms. It just goes on. 5) Quiet. Doesn't smell. Ceiling are high and the windows are just plentiful enough. It's just a great place to come in an study or read. 6) There's an outdoor patio with a coffee cart. Pretty nice and quiet out here, too. 7) Area is safe. There's a police station right outside. 8) There's an ebook/tablet/online station in the main lobby. I like that they made it so it blends in well with the rest of the library and doesn't detract from the historic feel of the place. 9) Close by Old Town. 10) Parking is 3 hours. Enough time for me. 11) Workers are friendly and helpful. 12) People who come here have never really been a problem for me. 13) Free fast wi-fi, no password. This is yet another reason I think Pasadena is one of best cities to live in. read more

I love the beauty of this library, and have gotten many a wonderful book from this location...but it us truly a homeless haven!! Such a shame, that no one seems to care that this library is basically catering to the homeless rather than people who want to use the library in a legit way. The police station is right across the street, but either everyone's hands are tied or no one cares. I wish this historic library would get the respect and love it so deserves. read more

The library is very spacious and beautiful inside. It looks like a old, historical type of library like the ones you see at Ivy Leagues. It houses a large volume of material and is a great place to study. I like studying here because instead of having crammed cubicles like a lot of libraries do you have large open tables to spread out and do your work. Lighting might be a bit dim for some people, but I think it's okay. Homeless people do tend to come here a lot, but they don't really bother me. It's also really quiet here, no loud school kids or anything like that. The only con I can think of is that parking can suck no matter what time of day. There is some metered parking available, but I never use it because I never see the point of having to pay when others can park for free. I usually just wait around and can get a spot within five minutes. If you get there after 7 PM and can't find parking go up the street a little and make a right turn at the University of Phoenix building. There's a lot of street parking there for free. read more

Very nice library. There are plenty of tables with reading lamps and is generally quiet in most rooms (aside from the main hallway). There is a coffee cart in the patio and free Wi-Fi. As a bonus in signing up for a library card, they give you a free eco bag with their logo on it. I use it often on my trips to Whole Foods! read more

Food for thought, go visit the Pasadena Public Library. I don't spend much time in public libraries as much as I used to but Pasadena Public Library may change that. It wasn't my intention on visiting this library today but I needed to print something, as my home printer is out of ink. As I entered the library I asked Laurie, the Directional Assistant, where could I print something. This lady was so nice and directed me to the Reference Desk. At the Reference Desk, I was assisted by Gerald who gave me the particulars about using the computer and directed me to a available computer. After using the computer, I had to return to the Reference Desk to inquire about my print-out. Dan directed me downstairs to an area known as the Internet Commons, which I had no idea that this area existed. There are so many computers in this area and they were practically all being used by patrons. It's good to know that people are taking advantage of this public library, as it has so much to offer. There's a certain area for print-jobs at the lower staircase. The library charges $.10 per page to print, which is reasonable. Much to my surprise, Dan was assisting another patron and after he finished with that patron he came over to me asking if I needed assistance and, yes, I needed help with the printing program. Dan offered assistance, once again, with courtesy. I was, somewhat, upset before entering this library because I couldn't print what I needed. However, after entering the Pasadena Public Library and receiving such courtesy, professionalism, and kindness, my frustration left almost immediately. In addition to the books and other educational resources, I applaud this library for the staff, cleanliness, and other services that it offers. Speaking of staff, I commend Dan and Gerald, but I must also say that Laurie mentioned that she's a volunteer, who I also commend. Honestly, I was surprised to know that Laurie is a volunteer because she was so professional and enthusiastic when helping me. Not to say that volunteers aren't professional and enthusiastic, but Laurie exuded such attentiveness, I just assumed she was a paid employee. It's such a pleasure to know that there are still noble citizens that really care and want to help in the community, and for free. If ever in the Pasadena area, please visit this library, as you can obtain such a wealth of information from the books and the staff. read more