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I went to the Manhattan Beach Library yesterday and honestly... life felt extra amazing afterward. The building itself is stunning--glass and stainless steel, built in 2015, modern and elegant without trying too hard. It feels like architecture that wants you to slow down and be curious. Downstairs, the book collection is so beautifully displayed that I momentarily forgot I was in a library. I saw a cake book near the checkout and fell in love like it was a luxury coffee-table book in a high-end bookstore--then remembered: wait, this is a library. These books are FREE. You can just... read them. How lucky are we?? Upstairs is even better. The design is gorgeous, with jellyfish-like fixtures floating on the ceiling, tons of natural light, and study chairs so comfortable they feel like they belong in a chic café. And then there's the view--straight out to the Pacific Ocean. Studying or reading with an ocean view? Absolutely unreal. This place made me feel grateful, inspired, and weirdly emotional about public libraries. Five stars, no notes.
What a gem for library lovers! Careful, even though this library is located in a stunning glass and concrete structure, you may miss it if you're driving past it on Highland. Be sure you have ample time when visiting, even though there is a medium sized parking lot in the middle of Manhattan Beach's Civic Center, where the library is located, it can get crowded and cramped! So, be patient - I promise it's worth it. This is a two story library with stunning views of the ocean on the top floor. There are plenty of seating areas and study tables on the West side. During my recent visit, I requested help from two different librarians, both were very helpful and accommodating. One pointed me to the fiction and bio section. Another assisted with the self checkout on my way out. One drawback I do have to mention is the restrooms were locked and required a buzz in from a nearby librarian. This is a red flag for me - screamed transient issue. Once inside the restroom was very neat and clean. Just a note to keep in mind. All in all, this is a gorgeous structure, with a great variety of books, all seem to be well taken care of and are neatly organized. The library was busy but very quiet, which I very much appreciate! Best location and a gorgeous view.
Beautiful, well-organized library with a beach view. So many resources and spacious quiet seatings, perfect for a studying session with the view of the famous Manhattan Beach! My kind of peace and how to spend a wellness day. Lots of parking and free for 2 hours! Definitely will come back when I'm around.
LA County Library - Manhattan Beach: Great Views, Productive Spot I was visiting LA and needed a place to work for a bit. This library was a great find! Parking is tricky, as expected in California, but the space itself is beautiful--lots of glass, natural light, and an amazing ocean view from the second floor. It's well-kept and modern, but it's not a silent library. The open layout means some background noise, and the children's section downstairs was busy even on a Thursday morning. That said, the staff was super friendly and helpful, which made the visit even better. If you don't mind a little noise, it's a great spot to work for an hour or two while enjoying the view. Just plan ahead for parking!
The library is a wonderful community resource. I've been attending the evening book club for nearly two years and it was the first way I found a way to engage with fellow bookl lovers in South Bay. The library also hosts many programs to help the community and educate people of all ages. Inside the architecture is beautiful. Bonus, we have a spectacular ocean view that gets even better at sunset.
I needed a library on Sunday and the only LA county library open was in Manhattan Beach. They are open 7 days a week. I am a big fan of libraries and they offer so much. The parking option is meter street and a parking lot meter. The librarians were helpful. I didn't get to tour the whole library but will be back.
Very nice and clean library. It's convenient to park in the lot, however you can only do it for 2hrs at a time. Which makes no sense if you come in here to do some work. They even have private rooms. The view is magnificent and one of a kind of the ocean. Lost a rating for parking.
Very beautiful library with amazing views! There are 4 study rooms upstairs that you can reserve or just use if no one else if using them. Workers are helpful and parking is in the lot. Close walk to the beach and the park.
I went here to get some work done and avoid driving through traffic and I am so glad I did. The most beautiful public library; honestly probably THE best public library in this area. I've been to quite a few (Santa Monica, Newport Beach, Beverly Hills to name a few) but this is the best in terms of seating, architecture, books, and people. Some of the other libraries I've been to have too many kids running around amongst people trying to study but this one mainly has the children's area downstairs and main study spaces upstairs. Its super clean and there are giant glass windows where you can overlook Manhattan beach. I will say that it's smaller than others but definitely not lacking anywhere. I was able to get a library card in minutes- the staff was very friendly and helpful. I feel like the people are just more respectful in general when I've gone. Everyone is quiet and there's a relaxed feel.
This is a gorgeous library in Manhattan Beach, just steps away from restaurants and the MB Pier itself. It's a 2-story library which is part of the County of Los Angeles library system. The benefit of getting a library card is that you can borrow from here, and return to another County library. You also have access to free downloads of books, and from what I read, access to movies as well. There's a really nice children's section on the first level with children's computers and neatly organized books. The upper level has an ocean view! The only downside is there's no free parking. There's either metered street parking or several lots nearby. The lot across from the library is limited to 2 hours, but it's reasonably priced at 75 cents per hour. Applying for a library card is easy and free!
If you're someone who wants to read for hours on end, this isn't the place for you. The upper floor gets pretty hot as it does not seem the A/C is up to the task of keeping it cool, very big let down. I'd also wish there was more comfortable seating, where one can recline and enjoy their book. Such a shame being it's a quiet space, perfect for focusing unlike other libraries that have folks of poor manners.
This was my first time ever stopping here, and boy was I impressed for a public facility! For those of you who are ever in the area and need to print out a few forms or documents, you can't beat this library. Your first 10 printouts are free. And while my home public library in Culver City is up to the task and gets the job done, the environment here is on another level all together. Perhaps it has something to do with looking out on the mighty Pacific right? Lol Leslie and Ann were super helpful immediately upon entry as my guest and I had never been here before. In addition to their great customer service, the cleanliness of the facility also stands out. Would highly recommend to anyone. read more
9 months ago
I went to the Manhattan Beach Library yesterday and honestly... life felt extra amazing afterward. The building itself is stunning--glass and stainless steel, built in 2015, modern and elegant without trying too hard. It feels like architecture that wants you to slow down and be curious. Downstairs, the book collection is so beautifully displayed that I momentarily forgot I was in a library. I saw a cake book near the checkout and fell in love like it was a luxury coffee-table book in a high-end bookstore--then remembered: wait, this is a library. These books are FREE. You can just... read them. How lucky are we?? Upstairs is even better. The design is gorgeous, with jellyfish-like fixtures floating on the ceiling, tons of natural light, and study chairs so comfortable they feel like they belong in a chic café. And then there's the view--straight out to the Pacific Ocean. Studying or reading with an ocean view? Absolutely unreal. This place made me feel grateful, inspired, and weirdly emotional about public libraries. Five stars, no notes. read more
What a gem for library lovers! Careful, even though this library is located in a stunning glass and concrete structure, you may miss it if you're driving past it on Highland. Be sure you have ample time when visiting, even though there is a medium sized parking lot in the middle of Manhattan Beach's Civic Center, where the library is located, it can get crowded and cramped! So, be patient - I promise it's worth it. This is a two story library with stunning views of the ocean on the top floor. There are plenty of seating areas and study tables on the West side. During my recent visit, I requested help from two different librarians, both were very helpful and accommodating. One pointed me to the fiction and bio section. Another assisted with the self checkout on my way out. One drawback I do have to mention is the restrooms were locked and required a buzz in from a nearby librarian. This is a red flag for me - screamed transient issue. Once inside the restroom was very neat and clean. Just a note to keep in mind. All in all, this is a gorgeous structure, with a great variety of books, all seem to be well taken care of and are neatly organized. The library was busy but very quiet, which I very much appreciate! Best location and a gorgeous view. read more
Beautiful, well-organized library with a beach view. So many resources and spacious quiet seatings, perfect for a studying session with the view of the famous Manhattan Beach! My kind of peace and how to spend a wellness day. Lots of parking and free for 2 hours! Definitely will come back when I'm around. read more
2 years ago
LA County Library - Manhattan Beach: Great Views, Productive Spot I was visiting LA and needed a place to work for a bit. This library was a great find! Parking is tricky, as expected in California, but the space itself is beautiful--lots of glass, natural light, and an amazing ocean view from the second floor. It's well-kept and modern, but it's not a silent library. The open layout means some background noise, and the children's section downstairs was busy even on a Thursday morning. That said, the staff was super friendly and helpful, which made the visit even better. If you don't mind a little noise, it's a great spot to work for an hour or two while enjoying the view. Just plan ahead for parking! read more
2 years ago
The library is a wonderful community resource. I've been attending the evening book club for nearly two years and it was the first way I found a way to engage with fellow bookl lovers in South Bay. The library also hosts many programs to help the community and educate people of all ages. Inside the architecture is beautiful. Bonus, we have a spectacular ocean view that gets even better at sunset. read more
I needed a library on Sunday and the only LA county library open was in Manhattan Beach. They are open 7 days a week. I am a big fan of libraries and they offer so much. The parking option is meter street and a parking lot meter. The librarians were helpful. I didn't get to tour the whole library but will be back. read more
Very nice and clean library. It's convenient to park in the lot, however you can only do it for 2hrs at a time. Which makes no sense if you come in here to do some work. They even have private rooms. The view is magnificent and one of a kind of the ocean. Lost a rating for parking. read more
Very beautiful library with amazing views! There are 4 study rooms upstairs that you can reserve or just use if no one else if using them. Workers are helpful and parking is in the lot. Close walk to the beach and the park. read more
2 years ago
I went here to get some work done and avoid driving through traffic and I am so glad I did. The most beautiful public library; honestly probably THE best public library in this area. I've been to quite a few (Santa Monica, Newport Beach, Beverly Hills to name a few) but this is the best in terms of seating, architecture, books, and people. Some of the other libraries I've been to have too many kids running around amongst people trying to study but this one mainly has the children's area downstairs and main study spaces upstairs. Its super clean and there are giant glass windows where you can overlook Manhattan beach. I will say that it's smaller than others but definitely not lacking anywhere. I was able to get a library card in minutes- the staff was very friendly and helpful. I feel like the people are just more respectful in general when I've gone. Everyone is quiet and there's a relaxed feel. read more
3 years ago
6 years ago
2 years ago
This is a gorgeous library in Manhattan Beach, just steps away from restaurants and the MB Pier itself. It's a 2-story library which is part of the County of Los Angeles library system. The benefit of getting a library card is that you can borrow from here, and return to another County library. You also have access to free downloads of books, and from what I read, access to movies as well. There's a really nice children's section on the first level with children's computers and neatly organized books. The upper level has an ocean view! The only downside is there's no free parking. There's either metered street parking or several lots nearby. The lot across from the library is limited to 2 hours, but it's reasonably priced at 75 cents per hour. Applying for a library card is easy and free! read more
4 years ago
If you're someone who wants to read for hours on end, this isn't the place for you. The upper floor gets pretty hot as it does not seem the A/C is up to the task of keeping it cool, very big let down. I'd also wish there was more comfortable seating, where one can recline and enjoy their book. Such a shame being it's a quiet space, perfect for focusing unlike other libraries that have folks of poor manners. read more
7 years ago
A great place to be when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the rat race outside. The glass building is beautiful and the interior has a very cozy feeling to it. read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
3 years ago
This is a really nice library considering it is near Manhattan Beach. If you sit upstairs on one side of the library, you will see the view of the beach. I like the glass windows because you don't feel enclosed/in a bubble. The downsides are that you have to go at the right time to be able to get only 2 hour parking in the back and study spots may be limited depending on what time and day you go. This library has a few private study rooms, which is nice. read more
4 years ago
This is a well designed library that is clean and organized with good access to parking. It's in an area where it's walking distance for shopping and eating as well as being minutes away from the sand and shore of the ocean beach. read more
Wanted to minus one star for the Parking - It doesn't exist if your patron of the library on the weekends! But I just can't, it's a beautiful modern library, walking steps & view of the beach! Brand new, high tech - state of the art equipment, modules, outlets/PC friendly & gorgeous ocean views (if your lucky to snatch a seat upstairs in the study area facing it). Nice accommodating areas to study/research (rooms for group studies), downstairs is children's area. It has a little study area, play area (really for story time), homework help, etc. Nice new & spotless restrooms, I believe both floors, for sure upstairs. Let's not forget the outside in back - nice area with lawn(s), benches, etc to study or read in. And most importantly friendly, helpful staff ready to assist you. I can't describe it any differently, as the most recent reviews state everything accurately. Again I state the only issue is of the parking. Sure if you come on the weekdays early is not a problem;it's the weekends (mainly Sundays since they now open at 1pm), parking's almost gone or can be challenging unless you know the area well & park a little further away - yes a great area to walk, but you struggle if you have your laptop & other small equipment w/you. There should be a portion of the parking garage reserved for library members only. What should I expect? After all, it's located within walking distance from the beach :( read more
2 years ago
8 years ago
Wonderful library! My favorite library in Los Angeles area. Love going to manhattan beach public library! Very spacious and clean. Great computer lab on the 2nd level. Lovely fireplace area on 2nd level. Terrific and so relaxing! Staff are very helpful and friendly! Best part of all the spectacular views of the ocean that can be seen from the 2nd level. Delightful treat to sit down and gaze out to the ocean while reading or whatever else...desks are set up in a way to sit while enjoying the view. Only Downside is there is no parking but there is a parking structure nearby which is cheap but parking is definitely an unpleasant challenge...but perks and wonderful library overcomes the parking dilemma... Come to the manhattan beach public library! Highly recommended! read more
7 years ago
5 years ago
4 years ago
7 years ago
My oh my. This library is BEAUTIFUL. The only similarity with old one has to be its name because this place is thoroughly modern in every way; decor, equipment, etc. The meeting rooms are wonderful. I make it a point to come here at least once a week to study, read, and write notes. Having an ocean view upstairs doesn't hurt either! read more
7 years ago
7 years ago
My grandson got his library card thus week and is so very proud. The folks working there were kind and enjoy children. read more
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More info about LA County Library - Manhattan Beach Library
Ask the Community - LA County Library - Manhattan Beach Library
Are you able to bring a coffee in from an outside store?
I've never seen a library that allows food or beverages.
Is there parking?
The parking for this library is on the back side of the building, in front of the police department. Timed parking in the lot.
Do I need a library card just to go in and do some work?
No, you don't! However, if you need wifi, you'll need a library card and pin to access it.
Review Highlights - LA County Library - Manhattan Beach Library
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