This seems to be a hidden gem. I wanted some quiet time to get on my laptop so came here. I also had some goodies to pick up for my son from the summer reading program. All Phoenix public libraries offer it once a year and it's a great program, especially if you have little ones. It's fun and my son has loved picking out his little prizes when he earns them. It's nice for adults as well since they have programs for all and it's also free. Love it, thank you Phoenix public libraries for this cool offering for engaging, learning and savings. Currently, this location has extended hours due to their heat relief program so they're open til 9pm. I'm not here for heat relief but appreciate that those not needing it can still benefit with the continued full services being offered. I drove 30 min here since they are the only location open. Overall, it's been comfortable, clean, quiet and a pleasant visit. The staff is kind and accommodating with great customer service and it's a spacious, amenity abundant location. I've been to near all Scottsdale and Phoenix public libraries so I'm in the know and this the spot to a go go go! read more

See all

I like to visit different libraries wherever I go. I spent lots of time in our public library so have fond memories of them. This one had a security guard which leads me to believe the area is somewhat risky. The library itself was in good order. Two floors of books and information. This area is in the midst of transformation. It may be a bit before this happens but it will be a positive change. Parking lot available and WiFi in the building. read more

See all

This branch of the Phoenix library system is close to my house! I had a book put on hold and requested (through the app) to pick it up at this location! It's very small, and I didn't have time to look around but everyone working was very nice. There is a small parking lot. I will definitely utilize this branch again! read more

Cholla Library - Parking lot - Libraries Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

See all

I really appreciate that this is one of the Phoenix public library branches that are offering extended hours (open everyday until 10pm) to beat the heat. The building is small and only has two stories. Didn't walk around the entire place but seems like the 1st story is for kids and 2nd story is for teens/adults. I went upstairs and sat at the seating area near the computer stations toward the back. Did some work for a few hours until my laptop died, as the table I was at didn't have an outlet nearby and I was too lazy to relocate to find one. Will definitely be back to enjoy the cool AC during the summer. Note: no food allowed, but I saw plenty of people with sealed lid drinks! Bonus: I love that the second story has a bottle refill station read more

See all

Large selection of books and services. This is a cooling station. Water given out. The hours until 9 PM most nights. 12-9 on Sundays.

The Phoenix library has an amazing system where it's actually a network of 17 libraries. They have something that I have not seen at other libraries I've been to: a hold system. What this means is that if the library closest to you does not have the book you want, another library might have it and you can have them deliver that book to the library closer to you. Libraries sure have evolved over the past decade and it's a darn shame that more people don't use them. Not only do they have books, but they have movies, audio books, comics, and manga. They have plenty of computer stations to use and they just introduced a small lineup of video games to rent. I see that they even have a 3D printing room but I've never seen it opened. Not only that but the workers here are very amiable and helpful. The parking lot is small and scuffed due to construction, but the whole library is tidy and clean. You can even renew or put holds on their online website; it isn't perfect but it gets the job done. The only real foible is that self checkout is a pain; I changed my password online and their checkout system doesn't register my changed password. It's neat that the checkout tells you how much money you saved by checking out an item for free. read more

All needs from a public library are met here. Wonder and helpful staff are more than willing to assist your needs.

Staff is great! I like their prompt and immediate attention. I been working on establishing a customer relationship.

Beautiful little library in Metrocenter. I used to volunteer here as a high schooler, and everyone there is so nice. Glad to see they're still running the programming for kids (I forgot the name of it LOL). read more

More beautifully constructed library in the valley. The employees keep the facility looking up to date and clean. Absolutely love this library. read more

Rude staff and security, security said I had to leave because I was sitting in the teen section, I'm 19, he didn't even ask my age.

I've been coming to this library on and off for the past few months since I moved into my new apartment. I started coming here in the fall to check out books, but found myself here a lot after my computer died in December. I got to know some of the features of this library, and I have to say, this is one of the nicer branches I've been too. For starters, its located in the mall circle of Metro Center Mall. Yes, I know what your thinking, why would I want to go there? Well, its the closest library, and its not in the mall itself, just in the service drive!! (leave your bulletproof vests and guns at home for this one, okay?) The library has two floors, and is pretty modern in layout and technology. Lots of computers for kids and adults, meeting rooms, and a bunch of other cool stuff to boot. They rent books, movies, CD's and have several other services here as well, including english classes and a few others. You can rent a room for like $5 an hour if you want to have a cool meeting spot as well! The staff here is pretty friendly, and will help you with just about anything. I've had to ask the librarians before for assistance, and they haven't failed me yet. Membership here is free, and you can get a card on the spot if you want to check something out. Also, they have self checkout which is pretty neat as well, and you can renew stuff online if it's easier for you do it that way.'s The internet here is pretty quick, and there's like 25 or 30 computers to use here, but they fill up quick on Sundays, so get there when they open. If your desperate, you can put in a PC reservation and get the next computer if you have to get online like I did. Also, if you need a book or DVD and they don't have it at this branch, the librarians will look it up for you and tell you what branch you can pick it up from. Pretty cool, huh? The library also has security guards here as well. I don't know why, I mean it is Metro Center, but who know it could be such a rowdy place? LOL There's one security lady that I see, and she's a bit snippy, BUT there's a hot security guy that works here, and we constantly make eyes at each other, so he's cool. We keep checking each other out, so I guess its just a matter of time...(get it? checking each other out like books at the library?) HAHAHA Anyways, I gave an extra star for the sexy security guard, so it's all good!!! O, and if you go there have fun! Their closed on Fridays but open every other day of the week! read more

This place sucks. Total homeless shelter and not quiet at all. Crying kids for 30 minutes straight, employees did nothing. The #1 thing you need in a library is quiet and this doesn't have it. Trash. read more

I am a BIG fan of libraries. Every city we have lived in (and believe me there has been a lot) I usually get a library card within the first few weeks of moving there. Same thing here when we relocated to the Phoenix area about 4 years ago. They have an excellent e-reader service both through Axis 360 app or through the greater Phoenix digital library where it goes through Amazon Kindle. That one you sometimes have to reserve a book in a hold and can be up to 6 months to wait for popular books. For that one, you can check out 10 items for 2 weeks. With the Axis 360 app, it is 3 items for 2 weeks. I mainly get the e-books because I read on my tablet when I'm exercising on the treadmill Monday through Friday. You can, of course, check out books from the library and can keep them for 4 weeks. They automatically renew the books for you (I think a total of 6 months). There are tons of things to do at the library if you take advantage of services offered and check the schedule to see when things are happening. Lately, I've been taking their free computer classes for Microsoft Word (in January) Excel (to be in February) and Powerpoint (March). This library is clean and the staff I have dealt with is very friendly. This one is closed on Fridays, but opened on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. read more

Cholla Library - Libraries Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great selection of books Friendly staff Easy check-out system The business hours are not so great and they are closed Fridays. read more

See all

I enjoy browsing the literature in the library, but I also come here to get Culture Passes for museums and gardens in the metro area. While the exterior design of the building is a bit puzzling, the location is very convenient - it is found along the circumferential road around the MetroCenter Mall and parking is never a problem. The library is spacious and well-lit, and the staff is friendly and very helpful. read more

Cholla Library - Cholla Branch Library, at the Metrocenter area. - Libraries Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This is a two floor library which is currently making study rooms (thank you so much for doing that). I like that they offer a variety of seating areas. You have the large tables with outlets for days you need to get serious work done and then comfy lounge chairs with a desk attachment and outlets at your side for leisure reading or computer work. They have a separate section for magazines and a seating area there too. First floor- movies, kids play area, culture passes, self check out kiosks, help desk and a little nook area with the comfy chairs and outlets mentioned earlier. Some adult fiction books I believe. Second floor- magazines, teen section, computer room, print area, 15 min computer section which is convenient if you just quickly want to print something, help desk, plenty large tables which are great for groups and soon study rooms. Oh yes! Lots of books. It's the quieter floor. The staff is helpful and knowledgable. Wifi is free like all PHX public libraries but tends to kick me off more frequently than I would like. So I have to log into the network repeatedly which can get a bit annoying. Some people have issues logging on the network with iPads/tablets. The staff is not that tech savvy so not much help there. I have no issues with my iPhone and laptop though. Entrance usually has the homeless crowd hanging but I just walk by minding my own business. Official library parking is limited and crammed but I usually park in the mall parking which is also convenient. read more

Friendly and helpful staff. Clean restrooms! Great book selection

I love this library - it's spacious, easy to find what you are looking for, has ample seating areas and table space, and has a great kid's area with computers. I have never had a hard time getting information on had to wait long to speak with someone at the information desk. Everyone I have encountered has been knowledgeable and friendly. My kids like to use the computers and when we are the only ones using them, they automatically extend their time so they can continue to play. The location always has a great selection of Culture Passes available. I have had the best luck earlier in the day, of course, but even later in the day there has been a decent selection. The only drawback to this location are the transients that are hanging around inside and out. The staff keep watch to make sure that people are not up to no good, but I have yet to see anyone who is loitering be approached. It's a possibility that staff is not allowed to but, I'm not sure. read more

I've spent a lot of time studying here recently for a pretty crazy test. it's not the biggest library but it's the most convenient for me (right on the way home from work). They've got some comfy chairs and a great selection of movies and cds as well. All that being said, what has happened to our library system these days??? I feel like nobody respects it anymore and people talk on their phones, scream at their kids and have incredibly personal conversations at a loud volume in the study areas. I wish the public library system would hire me and give me a nerf bat to beat overly loud strangers with. read more

Great selection of new books! Their claim to fame besides the futuristic look mentioned by Erin, is really their new book selection. You'll often find books recently mentioned in the press. It's all self-check out but that's pretty much the name of the game now-a-days. Just keep in mind when standing in line to check out or speak with guest services to "follow the yellow brick road." read more

After using this facility I had to treat my home for bed bugs!! I remember the chair hiding my legs and I even got a magazine to sit on not thinking about a big till I got home and I had bites on my thigh.. Next thing you know I find a bed bug in my recliner chair!!!!!I will never go to the library again read more

I've been in quite a few libraries and thus one rates high on the scale. The staff is helpful and charming. The books, CD's, PCs and reading/study areas are well organized. Its clean, even the bathroom, and considering they get the homeless people (like a lot if libraries) that's a plus. The architecture is industrial punk meets silo America. Lots of eye appeal in a stark, raw way. I rarely find a misparked book, so they must work real hard at careful reshelving. They have a new checkout program which tells you how much money you saved by borrowing the books instead of buying them. We know! They're closed on Friday but have extended evening hours on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. read more

Cholla Library - This piece of plastic is your ticket to a thousand worlds. Use it often. - Libraries Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

It's a very nice place the only downfall it's like a homeless center I wouldn't want my family around them I guess you only time they're going to go is if I go ... read more

I went to the Library every after noon. It was QUITE and I could enjoy my time. NOW it is like a zoo kids screams, fighting. noise. you can not even read in peace. I went to use the computer and it was loud in the computer room with children screaming and crying... why can't they put the children in a room or on another floor. they were not learning not one mothers was interacting with their children,n they are visiting with the other mother. I spoke to the man at the front desk. He agreed that the noise was distracting but the NEW RULES do not ALOUD the employees to control the noise. where we lived in Texas our library had a children section in the lower level. they played games and read books and the noise did not bother those who were reading or studying. I am so disappointed for being able to go and enjoy the library. Viola read more

I called several libraries before getting the call center. I was trying to get instruction on how to get to ebook. I have Windows 8.1 and talked to 3 people that could not help and insisted I bring the computer into the library and they would help. The last person I spoke with Jacob talked me through it which I was sure we could do if I could get to a person who understood my problem. I am really so happy due to the fact that I am a senior with less than perfect eyesight and reading books with a magnifying glass just does not do it for me. So I did not read any books for many years. Thanks to Jacob we got me to ebook and I am so glad to be able to sit in front of my 24 inch screen and adjust the print to my size to easily read a book. Thank you so much Jacob, I have decided to join a book club. You have no idea as to how great it feels. Above and beyond. read more

holy futuristic library batman! i think because my mom is a librarian i have a homing device for any and every library in every city i travel to. i just stumble upon them. i came upon this branch as i wandered aimlessly through the metro center mall parking lot getting ogled and sweating like a leaky fire hydrant (mmm imagery!). i asked about a guest pass to use the computers and was given a full use library card by a very friendly gentleman, whom, while he knew i was only here for a week, proceeded to detail the entire functionings of his branch and the other regional branches. he was enthusiastic so i didn't try to stop him. the library is all bright yellows, reds and shiny steel. there are cool twists and turns of architecture and design and the computer equipment is very current and all of the staff members offered help since i looked so bedraggled. if i didn't have tourist's guilt about actually going out and doing something, i would have stayed there all day reading. read more

I love this library and if they don't have it they will find it for you. The staff is great!

Love this library! I go here almost nightly. There are around 30 computers upstairs for adults, and plenty of computers downstairs for the munchkins in your life. The computer speed is pretty good, and the computers rarely act up. There are tons of books, CDs, DVDs, and magazines you can borrow. And if you forget to return them on time, you don't have to pay your fine at this library until it reaches some stratosphere-level dollar amount. :-) This library is plenty large, with lots of room for browsing and hanging out, with a fun decor. (When you park your car, and are approaching the library, look up. Even the outside matches the kind of funky, futuristic, mod that the inside has.) And if you bring your own laptop, there is comfy seating for you. The librarians and other staff members are very helpful, with Todd and Gary being especially obliging. You don't have to be a Phoenix resident to get a library card here, and you may renew borrowed items on your phone or computer at home, or by calling their renewal phone number (which is on the back of your library card, even the little itty-bitty keyring card). The only minor complaint I have about this library: The noise level gets a bit ridiculous at times, with their attitude being that it isn't 1975 anymore, and library patrons no longer have to be silent. (Okay, I get that, but sometimes it sounds like you're in someone's living room, with personal phone calls being made at full-volume speech, mothers singing songs to their children, and couples using one computer complete with running commentary on the YouTube vid they are watching. I mean, come on!) All in all, I love this library, and recommend you come check it out. Oh, don't come on a Friday - they're closed. read more

I love this place.. Its always clean, the staff is always so helpful, and its always a right in and out for me.. Never super crowded, and everything is always uo and running, even i days when i go when the first ooen their doors. The security guard is really nice too. And i love that im not bombarded by the people sitting out front. Its just a safe and friendly environment to be in.. Way to go Cholla! read more

I love this library! They have a good supply of books and media! Staff is usually always friendly and helpful!

Best library experience ever. Got my card in approx. 10 min. Helpful and understanding. Explained what I needed and was of to work in the Chills Library. Wonderful read more

I was relieved to learn, after moving to Peoria, that the Phoenix libraries only require you to be a Maricopa County Resident, and not specifically a Phoenix resident. I was also pleasantly surprised to learn that my closest branch - Cholla Branch - has a really good selection of children's books, fiction, and rock music. I hesitate to tell you this, because I really want the selection to be there when I go back next time. But really! A library branch with Flying Lotus, Beck, Michelle Shocked, Hooverphonic - I'm impressed. I didn't see much mainstream pop or rap music, and maybe that's the secret, since this branch is not as urban as my prior branch. Perhaps its proximity to Metro Center Mall ensures more teen traffic (and they have a huge teen section upstairs) and thus my alternamom music is more readily available because...well.. they just don't know what's good for them. ;) The staff is also very friendly at this branch - while the staff at Burton Barr or Acacia were always helpful, it was always with a slight irritation. Cholla seems the best branch of those I've visited so far. Now let's hope that the recession doesn't find this branch closed before I get to check out all the CDs on my wish list. read more

i have been coming to this library for years and i must say they have improved a lot. it has 2 floors which they alot for various age groups. they have a section for little kids that includes a play room for babies and toddlers, section for teens, and adults as well. they have reading program for little kids as well. they also have the ff: computers, cd/dvd/audiobooks, manga section, news/magazines. they also have a meeting room that they rent out with reservations for $10/hr, and 2 study room for thise who'd want to use it for a study group. overall, this place is still my fave library! read more

This is a great branch and location but there are always a ton of screaming kids there. I miss the days when librarians would shush people.

Not the library of my childhood...it was an experience in wide open spaces, lots of walking, and books tucked away on shelves that were anything but crowded. Beautiful building and a memorable experience. I do miss, however, the libraries of the past...with crowded aisles, shelves ready to burst with too many books, old card catalogues, and librarians waiting for your questions. Must admit, though, it was gorgeous. read more