It's a nice cute small library but I'm not sure if libraries have changed since when I used to go but everyone including the libraries here are just talking at full volume, people are talking on their phones, some were even blasting music loudly on their headphones to the point where I could hear them 10 feet+ away. It's not a great place to study or focus but if you're just looking for a place to hang out it's great. read more

Lately I been coming to this library due to how the inside and outside of the building is wonderful. You would not believe this library was caught on fire. Since the fire and re-opening the library still attracts people to come inside to check out books, studied, or nap (I seen someone catching up sleep but dare not to snore). The librarian was polite on informing what been going on with the library since it re-opening. I was informed about events the library are holding. I have one good question: why is this the only library that provides ear plugs? read more

Cute little library where I've gone to do homework/study a number of times. Three or four tables with chairs, but also a table in the teen section and a tall table at the window with stools. Think the chairs got an update last year because they're pretty comfortable. There are times it can be noisier because someone is on the phone inconsiderately, or children in their section are being loud the way children sometimes are, but overall it has a nice relaxed vibe to it and the staff is friendly. Could use more books; definitely search online first for availability if you're looking for something specific, otherwise I've found some interesting titles just browsing. read more

I really love this library. It's spacious and well-organized (I mean, I guess libraries are SUPPOSED to be organized lol). I bring my preschooler here fairly often, and we often get 30+ books at a time. The kids section has some toys and playthings as well, to keep him occupied while I browse the shelves. The librarians are all very very friendly and helpful. This place rocks! read more

Recently renovated, so nice and clean. BUT, this the noisiest library I've ever been to. Ever. The staff talk to patrons and each other without even trying to lower their voices. It's like a daycare, with parents and kids talking like they're at home. One old guy took a call from his daughter on speaker phone, and literally stood in the middle of the library discussing how he needed to get his dentures replaced, but suspected that his dentist is a crook. I put on my noise cancelling earphones, with rain ambient sounds, but could still hear some folks. If you're looking for a quiet place to read or study, spend the gas money and keep driving. read more

So beautiful! So new! They have a laptop lending machine! Awesome how Contra Costa is throwing in money to care for an old run down public space. I'm so excited as are my kids. We came at around 5ish... librarian weren't exactly the friendliest... I think one of them was saying it was her last day... hmm I guess one wouldn't care if its her last.. blah read more

We have been to almost all Contra Costa libraries. We love all of them. But El Sobrante Libraries atmosphere, staff and selection are our favorite. read more

If you haven't been to the El Sobrante library since the remodel, give it a try! The building is well lit and pleasant to spend time in with comfortable chairs and couches. There is a large kids area with a great selection of brand new books, computers, toys and a coloring area. This is a great spot to spend a few hours and relax, a very positive addition to the community. read more

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This library is an absolute gem to the neighborhood. The staff are extremely friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. My son adores all of the youth programs they are constantly doing, even during the pandemic. I really hope they are able to start story times again- there is a fabulous large patio on the back of the building that would make a perfect outdoor space for families to come and sit separately. read more

It had been years since I last came here. I'm SO happy to have one so close to home ! I use to have to drive all the way to the San Pablo one, but I prefer this one. It's small which makes it cozy , and it feels like home . Everything is NEW !! The books , the computers , everything . You can check books out all at once, the machine they have is advanced so you don't have to scan one by one . They have coloring pages and markers for kids in their area. The windows are tall which I LOVE ! I am so happy that they reopened this library and they did a great job overall . Thank you ! read more

El Sobrante Library - Kid's area - Libraries Near Me - El Sobrante, California

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Love our new neighbor library! After the fire happened, I was traveling to the San Pablo Library which is brand new but hated traveling across town and on the other side of HWY80 to get there. I am so happy to have a remodeled library which provides a beautiful space for children to read. It has an open space feel with tons of new books since the fire destroyed all the books and new sky lights to brings in great light. I will be using this new space for studying for school and for my children. I definitely would recommend coming by to check it out! read more

Small library but easy to navigate, staff is very friendly and helpful. Books are in very good condition. I really like this library.

The folks who operate this library are just awesome. Its best thing about El Sobrante.

Small library but it if they don't have what you want they'll find it for you. Small child's area with kid friendly computer. It's usually hot and a bit smelly. There a cute little gated park across from parking lot. read more

I love the new remodel, the library has lots of windows, everything is new. The toddler section is a fun area to play in.

It's a small library, but carries a pleasant atmosphere. I've always been able to find an empty desk or chair to sit and read, and just get lost in time. I'm always able to find new books to read every time I visit, and I love that you can also request to borrow books from the other Contra Costa County libraries online, having them delivered to the El Sobrante library completely free. The library does have a limited number of computers, but there's wifi, so you can bring your own laptop or iPad. Can the library be bigger? Can it be better? Yeah, but I'm still happy with what I have. read more

I recently went to my local El Sobrante library for Lego Stay & Play time as a part of the Meetup group I organize. They had Mega Blocks, Duplos and Legos for kids to play with. They had a boombox with children's music playing in the back ground. The description of the activity said there would be a story read but that never happened. My kid is to old for playing with Legos but I had a great time chatting with the mom who came as a part of my meet up group. The children's area has a great selection of books and is fun and vibrant. I have previously come to study for exams here and donate books to the Friends of El Sobrante Library Book Sales. I recommend this as a little hidden resource in El Sobrante. read more

The rebuilt El Sobrante library is amazing!!!! The kids' section is much bigger and better, and best of all it is stocked with a brand new book collection. The kids and I went today and checked out 71 books, but there were so many more new ones we wanted to get. It's clean, bright and airy, good books, friendly staff. So glad to have it returned to the neighborhood! read more

My review is mainly based on the quiet room in the back, It's a great place to study. Also, they have great programs for children & parents.

It has some space, it has some books, and it has some quiet but that's about it. Pro-- study room is quiet, not crowded during week, picturesque park n trail next to library Con-- have to get a key use restroom, old building with old carpet, lighting, furniture, claustrophobic with almost no windows, etc., thin walls so you can hear a muscle car revving on adjacent street and the kids in all parts of the building Conclusion-- Ya can't polish a terd. El Sobrante deserves a new, bigger, built in this century library that is more useful, efficient, and safe for all if a tremor or storm occurs. A new library here could be the hub by which the neighborhood could revitalize itself. I don't think I'll be back until a new library is built.. read more

The library is ok...Not significant amount of books...I always have to order what im looking for...For example they didnt have nothing in german...Amazing! Also some of stuff is not very polite...A blonde lady said to me once, can you make your baby silent...I said...Hmmm...I can try yes, but he is a baby...babies DO cry...no matter if its in the church, or in the library ...They will have a moment of cry....And be aware, do not be late with returns. They count the millisecond of the second if you are late! read more

Yes, the library building is small and old, but it is tidy, and the book selection is good. The new reading park is a sweet place to read when the weather permits. Even so, what makes this homey little library a bit better than maybe a larger, less personable library are the helpful and friendly staff. I have received research help of all sorts, and was taught how to order books out of the Contra Costa Cty. system. I am a frequent visitor to the El Sobrante Library, and have not had a problem getting onto a computer. In addition, this small library is full service, offering a number of activities for young and old. I like my local library! read more