I went to the Pasadena Public Library on Sunday. It's great that it's open on Sunday for a limited time. Lots of people were studying, but I found a place to set with my friend with a power outlet handy. The WiFi was pretty good and reliable. It's a beautiful library. It has a nice facade and, as many Yelpers have said, has a law school feel. It's a historical building in the Civic area not too far from Old Town Pasadena. read more

Wonderful architecture and passionate, friendly staff. Free parking in the back, coffee bar on the side. I need to spend more time here, but a wonderful place to try and get lost. Plenty of seats throughout and you can easily just get some quiet time to yourself. Plus sign up for a library card and access free ebooks and audiobooks online! read more

Best library ever. I kind of miss my favorite spot in the periodical room since it's gone now, but it's still awesome. Super helpful research librarians, great new releases section, lots of audio books, and plenty of nooks and crannies to curl up and enjoy a book. They also have wifi and a cute little coffee shop (but with limited hours). Paul M.--don't hate on the nerds. Don't be jealous that you don't have the intimate relationship with books that we do. read more

Inside is archaic but well maintained. Good job. Internet signal descent enough for watching videos. Free and clean parking lot. I have been lucky enough finding spots since the lot gets full quickly after opening. Staff seems to love what they do. Three caveats: Bathroom is filthy. It is rather surprising that I have not witnessed any roaches yet. Today I saw s@#t proudly painted on the wall. No kidding. Wish there were air filters in the bathroom. It reeks like sewage. Homelessies on the block chillaxing with us in the house where with free ac on and quiet. Sometimes they scare the h*ll out of me talking to themselves loudly next to me. Yes I start to panic and scope far away seats. Lastly, only one outlet per table of six chairs. Well it is one way to save electricity. Above all, the bathrooms need most attention. It maybe cleaned every few days? No patron will ever know. I am sure a penny from Pasadena tax can go buy bleach and disinfect this hole! read more

I'm taking an LSAT-prep class in Pasadena and this is the closest library to where my class is held. 4 Stars for having free wifi, power outlets everywhere, all study desks have lit lamps, strong air conditioning, and an architecturally beautiful place to study. But best thing ever is that it's so quiet in this library! It's amazing how quiet it is! One concern is that there are quite a bit of homeless people in the library and my only concern is hygiene. Otherwise, I've had some nice conversations with some of them. One wish I had was that they would open late and open past 6pm on the weekend. I know a lot of public libraries aren't even open more than four hours a day but it would make life a lot easier for a lot of people if they extended their hours. Otherwise, it's still a great library. read more

Is it normal for a library to stock manga? Because that's the first thing you see when you walk in-- a wall of manga. I like this place already. But don't let the comics fool you. This library has an exhaustive collection of literature of great intellectual value. The library is divided into separate wings. There's business and finance, humanities and arts, etcetera. They have an auditorium for lectures, a technology room, and a copy center downstairs. The architecture is great with vast expansive rooms, 50 ft ceilings, and giant chandeliers for lighting. I love the wood paneled walls covering every vertical surface. The study areas are quiet and inviting. The furniture is nice and the large wooden desks each have two desk lamps. The desks are covered with a pane of glass to make a good writing surface. All around, other people are studying. It's smaller than the ucla Powell library but still comparable in size and seems nicer and more expensively furnished. What a great public library. I love it. I'll do all my studying from here from now on. There's even a small coffee shop! Although it doesn't seem to be open at the moment. read more

Great library for many reasons: 1. Quiet 2. Lots of desks and lamps on each 3. Lots of parking spaces 4. Friendly and helpful staff 5. Appropriate amount of A/C - not too hot or cold 6. Beautiful architecture 7. Many outlets Just wish the parking was longer than 3 hours. read more

Love this library. They are very helpful with your research. They'll also work with you if you're a little late on renewals. However, there are homeless people in this library that use some of the areas as their living rooms and bedrooms, which is a bit off putting to the library patrons. Not all homeless people are in here doing that, as some are actually using the library to read or do research, it's just the men's restroom remains atrocious no matter how many times the staff tries to keep it clean. Plus, the people who are cleaning the restrooms are usually doing several jobs at once, so I can imagine they are not very happy having to clean up after homeless people using the bathroom to bathe/shower and laundry. Other than that, the staff is usually very friendly and helpful, and the books are lovely. read more

Next to my ATM card, my Pasadena library card is my most valuable, precious card. I adore this library! I'm always so happy to be here that even studying feels less like a pain in the butt. The Pasadena library is beautiful: rows of dark wood shelves filled with books, dark wood wall panel, wrought iron details, high ceilings, beautiful architecture. This library has great book selections and an impressive manga collections that you can check out. One of my favorite library service/ feature is that I can search for all my books online, request loans from different libraries, request the books to be picked up in this central location--- Within 1-2 days I'll get an email notification that my books are ready to be picked up. No more going all over the library to search for my books. If you ever need anything in this library, the staff is really helpful, nice and friendly and will go up and down the stairs to help you find your book. I can spend hours in this library, going from one shelf to the next finding new authors, or new books to read. I often bring my own lap top, take advantage of the free Wifi, and study/ work in a great environment. I often wish that this library is open for 24 hours during my final's week. Support this library! this is the only place where I happily pay my fines because it's such a great public facility. read more

Reading is fun-da-mental is all I can say about this place, If your into books, comic books, dvds, magazines or even free internet, this is the place for you. This Place has 4 levels of books for you to cure your book fetish fantasies of any topic you enjoy, that you can get lost for several hrs here. In the days that I used to get my learn on I was always able to study no problem with very little distraction. Another great thing about coming here is the selection of books, theres always new books constantly coming in, and I love the fact that they have a good amount of comic book novels, so I can relive my youth. I can check out my books rather easily with the self check out and I can always easily renew them online. Like I said Internet is free as long as you get a card. Thus dont feel like buying a book come here and read it or check it out. read more

My new favorite local library. Nice older library with plenty of little nooks and crannies for you to find to study. Its very quiet and there are tons of tables. They even have an outdoor area with a little coffee cart. Nerd love read more

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

The best library I have ever seen. The architecture is gorgeous! The little rooms that lead to more rooms are perfect for studying. I remember running up and down the floors as a child, doing my research projects, thinking - this is like the movies! It's a little fairytale inside. read more

I'm sooo happy we have old buildings like this that people still enjoy having. This place is way cool and in great shape. I really enjoy coming here and having some quite time. Support this library! read more

Definitely one of my all time favorite libraries to visit. A pretty courtyard, a lovely check out space, and the architecture succinctly captures life in Pasadena. This has never been my closest library, but it was my "go to" branch for the seven years we lived in Pasadena. The librarians are very helpful, but since so many patrons are "regulars", I've been helped just as many times by patrons. I can't wait until my next visit! read more

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

It's a great library, the only one I know that comes close to this is the Princeton University Firestone Library in New Jersey. Ok, Princeton? Well, long story short, I used it because my university had a very limited book selection, it got me through college, just not THAT college lol. So thanks Princeton. Anyway I love the architecture in Pasadena Library and it's easy to find a place to study and research. As for the guy that worked there, Mike D, wow, haha you nailed that, though I've never seen people acting out their lustful endeavors, I have walked by a guy who obviously thought he was Captain Invisible while surfing some pron site. Anyway the bums yes you'll see them in the mag section, why not, as long they're not twirling my hair or annoying me, I have no beef. One of the reasons I love California is that people treat their homeless a lot better than I've seen in other parts of the country, we're more laid back. Always a worthy experience whether you're a college student or just someone who wants to relax and get some quiet time. read more

Beautiful library with an old world, law school charm and an elegant design. The first time I visited this library was for my brother's piano recital. They have a Steinway in their auditorium! After visiting, Seats can be hard to come by at the library on Sundays but other than that, Whenever I have visited I have always found a spot. There is 3 hour lot parking available. I tend to stay longer than three hours at the so I often times find myself switching parking spots and seats every three hours. There is a cafe in the courtyard but you are also steps away from some delicious eats in Pasadena. Overall, it is a fantastic library to visit and I really appreciate the Sunday hours! read more

Parking lot is small, but there's always someone leaving on arrival so I've always found parking right away. Other libraries have a more open feel, but this library? It's easy to feel a little claustrophobic. The middle open area (the place to be if you don't want to feel walled in!) where checkout is is very nice. Almost makes you feel like you are at some grand library or at a fancy-smancy college. Library card is free, but you have to choose between the wallet size card or the keychain. Can't have both. A nice feature (two actually) is that you have a Redbox alternative (well not Redbox, but exactly like it) I've never used it, but I THINK it's free with your library card? :o That's pretty cooool. Other cool feature is the self-checkout, lol. *Note: if you want to renew your books, you can do it online! but beware they change the date from date of renewal and not the due date. So if you renew earlier, you will lose days. read more

I love the ambiance of this library! It has an old school library feel with individual table lamps at each table. There are plenty of tables and several different rooms in the library to choose from. It's really quiet if you're looking for a place to study. There is also a cafe where you can buy coffee, drinks, and snacks to study with. They may be a bit strict on talking though, so if you can be quiet, don't come to this one! lol. There are outside seatings and patios if you want to study outside and enjoy the library. There is also a kids room where the children's books are located. Only downside is that I think the bathrooms are a little bit creepy because of the heavy wooden doors. Other than that, I have no complaints! I love studying here! read more

Very pleasant decor. Reminds me of a 19th century English University Library. The layout can seem confusing at first but the archtecture of the main entrance area makes up for it. The book selection is fair, but the amenities are excellent. It's attached to a coffee shop and auditorium. There was a strange smell at several of the tables though but that could've been from the glass and wood cleaner. read more

I would have given it a 3.5-star rating had I not discover the little girls room in the children's library because the women's restroom is always so BAAARFF! Other then that, I love love love love love this beautiful library. read more

This library is nice. It's a good inviting setting and provides a lot of places to do work and research. I love the location. It's right by colleges, police station, freeway. The staff is super friendly, always willing to help. The people that show up at the library seems to be just as jovial and willing. It's a fun sense of community. The downfall is this: they really don't have a good selection of books. They own some unique old school books you will not find in B&N but, if you are looking for a particular book it's probably not in stock. It's a small space all together. A plus is that the library is part of a larger network so you can just have the book sent from another location. Being a fan of instant gratification, I don't find this appealing. Yes, gay friendly - it's a library! read more

It's been a long while since I've stepped foot in one of these places, not since racking up exorbitant fees at the Culver City, Westwood and Santa Monica public libraries (can't seem to remember to bring those darn books back). :( Even though I'll likely never check out books here, the PPL seems like a great place for those that need a quiet place to sit, study, ponder the universe, etc. Sort of reminded me of a smaller version of the Powell Library at UCLA where I spent countless nights writing last-minute papers back in the day (go Bruins!). There's a outdoor cafe on the first floor as well and a small section you can buy used books for a $1. If you want to work and are easily distracted, I'd avoid the first floor as it's obviously the busiest with all the books being checked out and people milling about. However, the rest of the floors offer a variety of inviting little nooks to study/work with minimal disruption and tons of available outlets to power up. On a side note, this location (haven't yet been to the other neighborhood branches) attracts a considerable amount of homeless people without regular access to showers. Just FYI. Lots of parking options: the lot behind the library, meters, or the nearby parking structure. If you need some peace and quiet, can't go wrong with this place. :) read more

Used to walk here from work during lunch, though most days are too warm for that now! Parking can get pretty nasty here, even on weekdays, so I do prefer walking. I usually request books online and come pick it up in the hold area. You have to show up within a timeframe (about a week) to pick it up, or else it will re-circulate. The selection of books, even through inter-library loan, isn't as big as other libraries, but I do appreciate the friendliness of the staff and relative organization of this multi-story library. They also do e-book lending, though selection is fairly limited. read more

The staff, resources and scope of activities available at the Pasadena Central Library are superb. You can really tell when a library is well managed and maintained, and this one could write a book on the matter! (Sorry for the pun!) read more

Study here almost every weekend when I was in school, this branch solemnly prepares you to respect your school work from a simple analysis report to a dignified thesis, plenty of outlets but so few a parking spot, and the chair makes it less concentrated because it hurts my butt after about an hour of sitting. read more

Amazing library. The interior will leave you breathless. The restrooms, however, will need you to hold your breath. Nasty...

This library is awesome! There's so much magazines, DVDs, and books to read. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. The library is four stories high. I love this place! read more

This place is pretty good. friendly staff. parking Sometimes is tough during the weekends when I go. there are many places you can read. they let homeless people hang out there and that is cool because they sometimes need a place to hang out. Their fantasy section is too small. weekend hours!!!! suggestions: larger fantasy section. more books by Terry Pratchet. staff sometimes too loud in the reading section. read more

I use to frequent this library back during my undergrad years at PCC and GCC years ago. Great location and in the heart of old town Pasadena. Parking is found either on the street or parking lot. I think you have to pay if it's on the street. This library is nice. The architecture and feel is totally vintage old Pasadena with little nooks n crannies to sit and possibly enjoy a book. I say possibly because every time I've come here, I've always had to keep an eye on my back. It's that feeling... I guess it's with all the homeless in the library. I've gotten a few stink eyes/stares from some. It's difficult to study when your attention is on your back... Other than that, it's a nice library. I like the brown wood details and high ceilings and Windows. It makes me feel like I'm in a different location, a small town feel away from socal. The tables could use a washing and wipe every day. They're a bit gross TBH. read more

Huge spacious library that does not run out of space. Lots of computers and not to mention the super fast wifi they got, its better than my phone's 4G LTE or my internet at home. Every table has a lamp lighting and plug outlets for your phone and laptop. AC works good to keep you cool in the summer. I also like the theme of this building, kind of like a historical classic type but with high technology accomodation such as a huge computer room, network printing, scanners, copiers and all that good stuff. I was very impressed by this library. Plenty of parking in the back. read more

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

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Another architectural treasure in Pasadena built in the 1920's. Architect: Myron Hunt. According to the original city planners, the Library (on Walnut) faced the Civic Auditorium (on Green Street) with the other city buildings lining Garfield St.. For many years, the view between the two buildings was blocked by a ghastly Stalinist 70's mall (whose only saving grace was the Orange Julius on the 2nd floor, btw, but I digress). Thankfully, with the creation of the Paseo Colorado in the early '00s, the view between the two was restored and architectural harmony reappeared on Garfield Street. I *LOVE* this library. From the self-serve checkout, to the helpful librarians, to the Special Collections rooms, to the little coffee stand outside, I can' t get enough. If you can, take a Library tour to the other branch libraries scattered across town. read more

What a gorgeous book-worm arena!!! Seriously, this place has a great auditorium, cafe, and expansive amount of shelves, books, and study areas. You will typically find elder and/or disgruntled employees at libraries in Sherman Oaks, Hollywood, etc. However, Pasadena's library must have been kissed by the literature Gods because the staffers are young and even if they aren't, they maintain a lively, outgoing, and youthful demeanor! I spent most of my time in the auditorium, next time I will be sure to spend some hours there. read more

Just saw virtuoso trumpeter TJ Tesh, of Metal Mariachis, do his doctoral jury in the D. W. Auditorium. He put together a recital of literature not written for the trumpet, yet, as they say in doctoral programs, still fitting the tessitura of the instrument. So that gets five stars. And think of all the great writers reading here when they were little, like Octavia E. Butler. The courtyard is where I want to open my sangria cafe soon as I find a restaurant business partner. We'll have a comida corrida like in old Mexico, my musician friends play Samba, and I'll hang the painting of Suicide Bridge I saw at TJ's recital over glass pitchers of fruit and wine and name my sangria "Suicide Bridge." read more

A pretty nice library. Old, charming and full of history. It's kind of cute, like a maze. My fiance and I have been here a few times to get some stuff done. I really like it! One time, when I was working on my Master's Thesis, I even got some help from the circulation desk. She was very patient with me, and asked about my topic and truly wanted to help. I appreciated the 20 minutes she spent with me... One note though, they don't have Scholarly articles from University libraries, so keep that in mind. Overall, though I was still able to find a few good books as resources for my Lit review so it was very helpful. Despite all its PROS, I have one CON. it's not my typical "go to" because parking is always kind of a miss. I don't really like the situation with that and we always have to end up parking underground with a lot of confusing signs, so I will minus one star. read more

I recently went to the Pasadena Public Library for the first time and was blown away. It is a very spacious library with a lot of resources. I love the outdoor patio area. Inside has plenty of seating and lots of rooms to spread out. The interior of the library is very beautiful, I have not seen a library like this since I was studying in England. You feel smarter by just walking through the halls or sitting and having a sense of historic and academic vibe. There are a lot of great resources available to members. My wife and I are just starting to use the online language tool (kind of like Rosetta Stone) to help us learn more languages. Being right next to city hall, this is definitely a gem of Pasadena. I will definitely be coming by more frequently to do work and research. read more

Why is there even a question? It's the LIBRARY! Which makes it bloody awesome without me even talking about it! Four stories of books. Four. When I was a kid, my local library had one story, and we were glad to have it! But this!?! Fantastic! The architecture junkie in me meets up with the book fiend that I an whenever I visit here, and they kinda go nuts! A great place to study or read or even just to sit quietly. I love them. You should go. *nods* read more

I like this library. It's large, quiet, and has plenty of tables for studying. The tables are long and since the overall library is dim, there are lamps for extra light (love!). I suppose it's the feel I get from this library that I like most: stately, grand, and with character, I imagine it to be like Pocahontas' grandma - the (freaky) talking willow tree - wise, serene, and able to tough it out through all circumstances. Oops, did I say Pocahontas' grandma? I think I meant Yoda. Or Mr. Miyagi. 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

Dear Pasadena Public Library, Thank you for being the most beautiful library I have ever been to in my whole short life. I love walking in through your main gates, through the courtyard & the inner doors as much as I love walking in through the back doors, either way feeling the rush of the cool air encased inside the marble. I love your main hall with its huge ceiling, and the sound of people's feet echoing as they walk through to get to the children's books, or up to the checkout desk. Because let's face it, the self check-out is handy & all, but you can't beat the feeling of walking up to the beautiful desk with the smiling staff & proudly handing over your library card. Who wouldn't be proud to be a member of such a beautiful place? I love sitting in the aisles of the shelves, reading a good book, about as much as I love sitting at the long tables in the main hall while researching something. I've never met a library as beautiful as you, & I'll never love another library nearly as much as I love you, Pasadena Central. read more

#Pasadena PL is the best. @mariaspeedracer and @estherbethe1 know it's true. (Still working on the combining the functionality of Yelp and Twitter--thanks for your patience PPL, just remain patient and keep in mind you're getting a 5-star review out of this!) In closing, the PPL is a key feature of the civic tour I like to give to people visiting from out of town. Always a crowd-pleaser. Keep it up, Pasadena Public Library. read more