The staff are so helpful, there are so many meeting and reading spaces, and the seed library upstairs is my new favorite,, always packed! They also offer many useful workshops here for the community. read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Inside - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I had about two hours to kill between two things I was doing downtown, and it was too hot out to walk around, so I headed to the library. I found a magazine and a comfortable chair far from other people and read. On my way out, I got a new library card and checked out a Culture Pass for the Tucson Museum of Art. Most of the people in the library appeared to be homeless people escaping the heat. They were spread out throughout the library, mostly just sitting quietly and reading. read more

I visited the Joel D. Valdez Main Library for the first time on 1/4/24. While the staff member who assisted me in obtaining my library card was knowledgeable and helpful, and answered all of my questions, I was somewhat disappointed by the overall library experience. The one notable positive, besides the books, was the helpfulness and knowledge of the staff member who assisted me. However, I observed that most of the staff members did not come across as very professional in appearance or particularly welcoming and customer-service-oriented. I believe that a more engaged and focused staff could have potentially addressed some of the issues I encountered during my visit, but perhaps the burden isn't entirely on them. My primary concerns during my visit included: Disruptive Behavior: There were two teens talking loudly on their cellphones and using offensive language near the teen center and study areas when I first arrived to use the catalog kiosk. This was distracting and made it challenging to concentrate and was actually anxiety provoking. Staff and security both walked by them and said nothing. Aisle Blockages: Again on the second floor near the 305 section, there was a man sitting at a table charging his phone, with his chair kicked out so far, that he was blocking part of the aisle, making it difficult to access a section of books. I felt uncomfortable asking him to move, and I wondered why these tables were placed in aisles that could obstruct bookshelves. There was no staff around to ask for help in asking him to kindly move, so I just left that section. Noise Levels: Many patrons in the library were speaking way above hushed tones, including a security guard who was conversing so loudly with a staff member at a kiosk on the second floor that I could hear them from the back corner near the Teen Center. This added to the distraction. Facility Cleanliness: The women's bathroom appeared somewhat unkempt and in need of remodeling. And when I walked in there were girls coughing without covering their mouths! (Side note: there seemed to be lots of coughing with mouths open all around the library). Also what was with the overgrown planters outside? Not a nice look. 5. Art Reference Books: This was a big one since it was the entire reason I drove across town to come to this location. I specifically visited the main library location to access art reference books. However, I was surprised to learn from a staff member at the front desk that most of these books are housed at the Tucson Museum of Art. This seemed counterintuitive for a city's main public library. Who goes to the museum to look at reference books? 6. Weekend Hours: I was taken aback to discover that the main library location is not open on weekends, especially considering Tucson's status as a college town. Other mid-sized and metropolitan cities where I've lived in California, such as Stockton and Sacramento, offered weekend library hours. Maybe not in all locations but definitely at the main library location. 7. Parking: I didn't see any convenient free public parking area near the main library building. Metered parking is limited or time restricted. I don't know about you but I like to take my time at the library, and I like to know my car is parked safely. 8. Limited Book Availability: I was disappointed to find that many of the books I was searching for were not available at this library location. Additionally, some books had very few copies available with extraordinarily high hold numbers, which was frustrating. 9. Seed Library: Not a bad idea, though I questioned the placement of the seed library within the library, as it seemed somewhat disorganized. Overall, I was left with the impression that the Joel D. Valdez Main Library faces challenges related to funding, access, organization, and resources. As someone who deeply values libraries and sees them as peaceful sanctuaries, my experience at this library was unexpectedly stressful. I hope that improvements can be made to create a more patron-centered and welcoming environment in the future. read more

I needed to check out a book they had in their closed stacks section for a tiny bit of research I was doing. Every librarian I spoke with was so polite and kind, and they even brought out extra books to help me on my quest. It was a short visit, but I found this library clean, organized, and spacious. I will return! read more

This library is the best, I am so excited to be part of the Pima County library family. When I signed up for my library card I was introduced to the extensive system available to members. First of all, checking out a book or movie etc is as simple as scanning your library card, typing in your personal identification number, and scanning your item. Done! The online catalog is so easy to use and has an app available on smartphones and tablets. One of my favorite features at this library is the seed exchange, and through the app I was able to hold seeds that weren't on location and have them sent to the location of my choice. This hold option is available for anything that can be checked out of the library! All three levels of the library are nicely organized and host computer catalogues for easy finds. There is even a handy poster which reviews the basic organization of the Dewey decimal system. The parking garage is so simple and the first hour is free. read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Friends, We love libraries, but this one is exceptional! The staff is very friendly and they have lots of books! Happy Reading! @Gorgeous.George2020 read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Me in front of the Main Library. - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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I recently applied for and received a library card all in the same visit at the Joel D Valdez library, and despite not having a piece of mail to verify my address, the Librarian took my word for it and got me all set up. Overall it's a lovely place filled with all sorts of books, magazines and even videos that you borrow and take home for a while, as long as you bring them back by a certain time. And did I mention that you can do this for free?? The air conditioning was working really well and the atmosphere was quiet and peaceful. I'll definitely be coming back regularly. I love this library! read more

Awesome Library! I find myself concentrating really well in this Quiet, Cool, and calming environment. They always have computers, Espeon for Job Search. I assume they loan books and other things, too. I just have late fees from 2 years ago that has prevented me from taking advantage of such a great Library! The Library is smack dab in the middle of Downtown Tucson! This gives many benefits including easy public transportation, an abundance of restaurants and shops nearby, and the general General Downtown Atmosphere. Some disadvantages for some people might include: Greater concentration of Tucson's Homeless population. The large diversity downtown can make for a number of odd, interesting, uncomfortable, and bizarre events all around. But it's all just part of the charm! read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

I'll keep it simple. Pros: The library has a sizable selection of books on tape. Going for a long drive? Don't pay the rental fee at Cracker Barrel! Check out the local library first. The library keeps late hours Monday through Wednesday -- closing at 8 p.m. Open on Saturdays and Sundays, too. The librarians can be strict here. Seemingly more so than, say, the Valencia location and the Woods library. I'm serious. Do not mess with these folks. Do. Not. They have rooms to use if you are hosting a meeting or study group. Cons: The library has its own parking lot, but charges a fee if you stay beyond one hour. However, you can get free parking if you are there late enough. ...I cannot think of another con. That is all. read more

I've lived in Manhattan & San Francisco almost my entire life, and I just moved to Tucson, Arizona just a couple of months ago. I haven't had much interaction with the local people, I mostly spend my time at the JoeL Valdez Library doing some research work. The Library is amazing, open to all the public, with open spaces in all three floors and amazing amenities. What prompted me though to add a review is the exceptional customer service of the librarians here. In NYC they say people are nice but not kind, in the Bay Area they are kind but not nice. Well, if the people working at this library is indicative of the average person in this town then they are certainly extremely kind and exceptionally nice. There have been a few instances where the librarians have been both kind and nice to me, like giving me a set of earphones for free, even though they charge a fee but there are also times they go way above and beyond, like today, I asked the gentleman at the information desk on the first floor if he had a plastic fork so I can have my salad, and he immediately started looking through all the drawers, when a sweet lady named Mary stepped in and said "I have one at my desk back in the library offices." So she proceeded to walk all the way back to her offices and a few minutes returned with the plastic fork! So kudos, and a big thank you to the outstanding staff at this library for accommodating the people to the fullest, above and beyond their official responsibilities and duties. read more

I love this place! It's huge the book selection is great. The kids area is amazing. I'm epically fond of the seed selection in the seed exchange program. read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

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Um, yeah, so Tucson is NOT NYC (see F.B. below). Anyone surprised by that? Considering that the state of Arizona provides as little as possible in the way of public services to its citizens, the Tucson Public Library is a treasure. Honestly, any institution that celebrates community and learning in this state should be applauded. The TPL has a good collection of popular books. Yes, you might not find the newest books in their collection, but I get the sense that they're working on it. I regularly find interesting classic films on DVD at the TPL. Just last week, I checked out some great Al Green and Stevie Wonder collections in the CD section. IF I want avant-garde, I know I have to pay for it myself because I'm certainly not paying for it in property taxes. Yay, Tucson Public Library. We love you! read more

I was so spoiled by the Tempe Public Library--its massive collection, beautiful location, and relatively short wait for any best-seller--that I was unwilling to check out the Pima County Public Library until a few months later after I moved back to Tucson. To my surprise, it didn't disappoint. The Pima County Library system is quite sprawling and each satellite location shares a portion of the book resources. Therefore, depending on where the copies are, you may not find the book on your first physical visit. But the online catalogue/account and interloan system have made it easy--you can reserve the book online and pick up from the library closest to your home when it is placed on the reserve shelf for you. The collection, while not as comprehensive as the Tempe Public Library, is still very extensive. I have always had good experience with getting the books I want. The Joel D. Valdez location is right in downtown and has the beautiful red abstract architecture. Free parking for 1 hour in the nearby garage. The library apparently has a lot of job assistance programs, and it is clearly mindful of the homeless population in downtown Tucson and offers help to the homeless as well. I applaud it for its commitment and contribution to Tucson. read more

We stopped by the Friends of the Library Book store. They were the worst FOL I've ever been to. They were rude when I asked about prices of the books. Then they bragged about how much money make. This is not a place that gives, ita place that take and profits off donations and brags about it. read more

They tore down some old buildings in an entire city block for this worthless junk of a Library. It's already outdated, cramped and awkward. It smells bad as there is no good ventilation. They don't have great literature books, instead, you'll find sugar numb candy for bored people. Only recently they've gotten DVD movies. Whoever designed it didn't think about the future. Oh, & the local politician schmuck who got it put up has recently put his name on it. I suggest getting your books on line from City Lights in SF, Powells in Portland or the Strand in NYC instead. UPDATE: I got a rude email from (TK L.) in which he called me "crazy" for expressing my dissent on the Tucson-Pima Public Library. I guess he's never been to some other big city Libraries since he thinks this one is so great although he doesn't provide any arguments as to why it is so good, just general comments like "I don't buy books anymore" or "You can check out books free with a card" . Gee, that helps, so you are afraid to go out, big deal. A library is good, only if it has different books, not just junk for the masses. Tucson-Pima Public Library fails on that account, as I said, but he didn't read it, must have attended one of the crappy schools in Tucson. I've requested that the library buy the book I wanted and in no case did the library buy the book (he says they do, must have been Stephen King that he wanted). Providing fluff for bored housewifes to read is not a public service. He's also probably paid by Pima county or he lives in a nut shell. UPDATE: No one said Tucson was NYC. " Um, yeah, so Tucson is NOT NYC (see F.B. below). Anyone surprised by that? " Nobel prize winners from 1900-1950 are not considered " avant-garde". It's obvious you don't read much anyways Julie A. " IF I want avant-garde, I know I have to pay for it myself because I'm certainly not paying for it in property taxes. " read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The library is the best. They offer so much and I use them constantly. You can put a book on hold from any library and they will bring it to the one closest to you. If they don't have a book you want you can suggest that they buy it. Everyone who works at the library is friendly, kind and helpful. read more

In the age of the internet, checking out books from a library isn't that important to me. The Good : If you really want FREE high speed internet wi-fi connection, this library has it. I went all over the city connecting to free wi-fi internet connections and all I get is mediocre speeds - enough speed to read the news etc.. but not fast enough to download huge files. Another GOOD is free wired connection with a library card. You can access their computers to connect to cable speed internet connection with a library card and upload or download a file from your usb drive at very high speed. You can also check out DVD's. And lastly, they have a site where you can download free mp3 songs. The Bad: This is one UGLY building!! First time I saw this building I thought it was a funeral home. It has horrible use of space. The parking garage is narrow. I'd wished they tore it down and build a new one (maybe, a Spanish Revival influence design to match the old Pima County Courthouse - that's a gem!!). Tucson's biggest library should be an architecture wonder not an eye sore ! Did someone got kickbacks in return for this design? read more

Great library! Lots of events and programs. Very helpful staff and brand new computers. read more

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This is the biggest library in town. Since Google is taking over the world, there is not must use for books anymore. There is a large amounts of books and eager librarians ready to assist you. read more

I love this place. The staff is super friendly and eager to help. If you have any special needs they are most eager too hello accommodate. Parking is the only drawback. read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

The main branch of the Pima County Public Library is perfectly adequate for most patrons, but leaves a bit to be desired for me. The organization seems designed to discourage patrons from stopping in for a quick read of the newspaper or a magazine, regaling both to the third floor. I understand the decision to have the kids section on the ground floor, but the periodicals would be a much better ground floor option than the "popular books" that are there now. I wonder if it's a subtle way to discourage homeless men & women from frequenting the library? The main branch seems to be the best choice for parents looking for programming to share with their kids as they clearly have more options than do other branches. It might not be for everyone, but it gets the basics done that a library should. read more

I totally disagree with the previous reviewer. The Tucson library system is fantastic. I can't believe that every single person in Tucson doesn't use the library. Regardless of whether a person likes the downtown building, the library has branches all over the county and you can request a book from any branch and they will deliver it to your local branch library (usually by the next day). Plus, there have been lots of books I wanted that the library didn't carry and I've just requested that the library buy the book I wanted and in almost every case they did within a few months. Plus, these days, you can do almost all your searching over the internet and all you have to do is show up and pick up your books at whichever branch is most convenient to you. Yay libraries. Libraries are one of the greatest public services around and I am so thankful that this country has such a great library system. I haven't bought a book in years. Seriously. read more

I'll admit, it's been quite awhile since I've taken advantage of our wonderful Pima County Public Library system. In preparation for a vacation I wanted to stop by and see if they had any travel books about my destination to check out. Lo, they sure did! There wasn't a huge selection, but had I planned better I could have checked out a few more and had them sent to my local branch for pickup. I was happy with the one book this branch (main branch) had though. I had some time to kill and spent a good amount of it just browsing books on shelves in various sections and scoping out the other amenities at the library. Here are some of my favorite offerings from this branch: * Huge Young Adult section with a large space filled with computers carved out for ONLY young adults to sit and do homework in, read, or chat. LOVED that this space is available for Pima County kids! * They have a nurse (or nurses?) come by regularly to talk with people about their medical needs/questions. * We use their digital library to check out books for our Kindle often. THIS SERVICE IS AWESOME SAUCE. * The local history section is so cool! I loved browsing through books about Tucson history and Globe history. They are only reference books though, and a lot of them are by local authors. I left knowing some really cool facts about my lovely city. * They have conference and meeting rooms for use! * The Friends of the Pima County Public Library store next to the information desk on the first floor is AWESOME. They have a really great selection of retired library books for sale at a really good price that benefits the library. If it's been awhile since you've stopped in, I would highly suggest taking some time to reacquaint yourself with this awesome community resource. read more

This part of town (downtown) always seems to dead to me when I visit Tucson, and not just because of the lack of people. Also because of the vagrants that walk around looking like zombies. This library seems to be their gathering point/feeding grounds, which is unfortunate, but c'est la vie. Anyhow, I took my infant daughter in to see if we could find some books to entertain her for a short while and we found immediately upon entering a children's section just to the left. The library scores some points for that. We found a small section with bilingual and Spanish-language books that seemed to have no order to their placement and gathered up a few to read to our little one. Thankfully, there were some comfortable couches to sit on and read aloud, so we found a good respite from the heat and brewery-visiting. We stayed until closing, in the process using the bathroom to change our daughter, and my wife and I were both infinitely thankful for the changing station in the bathroom. We didn't peruse any other sections of the library, but the children's section was pleasant enough, if needing a much larger section of bilingual/Spanish-language books. read more

This is a good sized, decent library. I know a lot of people have had so much negative to say about this library, but honestly, Tucson has it pretty darn good here compared to California libraries (you don't know till you've lived with worse). There is a decent selection of books, security (which is pretty standard where I come from), and parking is easy to find (literally right across the street) if you go on the weekend or during the week after 5pm. Homeless people are prominent throughout the area but I haven't had one approach me and they usually go about their own business. Computers here are newer, library checkout is a breeze, and customer service is helpful and friendly. Lots of community and local event info posted throughout it as well. Books are in decent shape, and everything is taken care of pretty well. read more

I love the library. The branches are pretty small and some are a little shabby, but the Main Libary is a real nice building. The librarians are all very helpful. The library sponsors great events for the public, like Nuestras Raices and the Latin American Celebracion. Their "virtual branch" (website) is great, and offers tons of free databases, if you have a library card. They even let you check out digital books that you can download to your computer and sync to your MP3 player. There's also free wi-fi in almost all the branches! read more

Joel D Valdez Main Library - This is the Main Libary downtown - Libraries Near Me - Tucson, Arizona

It's the city's largest library for non-students. It is clean, air-conditioned, has computers, and with the exception of one irritated woman, the staff is consistently friendly. As far as Tucson libraries go, it makes the cut but does not exceed it. They recently remodeled the second floor by making the shelves MUCH shorter. I'm guessing it was for security reasons, because it looks awful. I don't want to go into a library and be able to see from one end to the far end - a library's far end should always be blocked from view by tall shelves of books. As for the security - irritating. They make their rounds with such frequency that it seems like you can't go five minutes without having one pass your side. Why is this necessary? All I've ever seen them do was wake up homeless people who had fallen (or decided to) asleep. Does it really make a difference to the typical patron whether they are asleep or awake? They are still there, their smell lingering in the air, so just let them sleep if it means you'll stop irritating us with your overbearing presence. All they really need is the one stationed at the entrance - it is just a library!!! Then there's the bathrooms. Creepy. Nice of the security to keep homeless people from sleeping in the main area, too bad they never noticed them asleep in the stalls. Then there's the creepy sign posted near the entrance and inside of the bathrooms : 24 hour camera surveillance. I asked a librarian once if this meant that they have cameras in the bathrooms - she said no, and said they were just there to deter grafitti. So then why post them in the bathrooms? read more

Amazing place. Some homeless people that want to cause trouble. Other then that this library is a great place to hangout and relax.

What a great experience at a public institution. We went there to make some final computer printouts for a small claims case that we were defendants in at the court house across the street. We were very stressed out at the time in anticipation of the court hearing. I went up to the desk to ask about the procedure for using the computers and printer. The lady was extremely helpful and issued us a login and password for the computer. We couldn't figure out how to print so she came over to help us but she couldn't figure it out either. She immediately called someone for help and another lady came within a couple of minutes to help. She was very pleasant and solved all our problems. Thank you! read more

Obnoxious late fees , unfriendly service. I used to love the place until I received a collections notice for two books not even a fee weeks late. The notice is for $75 dollars for two books of which even the cover price is not that much. I wont return. read more