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    Lafayette Library and Learning Center

    4.0 (80 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

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    David F.

    My wife and I, inspired by our visit to the Castro Valley library, are checking out the new, attractive libraries in the East Bay. In Lafayette for another reason, the library was quite close so we stopped by. For an initial visitor to the library, the first issue is parking. I knew there was an attached lot, but we weren't able to find where the entrance was, and ended up parking on Golden Gate Way, immediately behind the library. Parking signage could be improved. The street had free parking and was relatively empty at noon on a Wednesday (but was packed with cars at 2:15). The library entrance, from the rear, also wasn't readily apparent - we ended up walking around until we found the main Mount Diablo Blvd. entrance. The library itself is gorgeous - an open, modern layout with beautiful wood ceilings and decorative lighting. The book collection in the center is decent but relatively small compared to libraries in the past, and the books on CD are so quaint vs. modern streaming options. Nice tables by the window for studying or computer work, as well as several meeting rooms to insulate the library from additional noise. We were particularly impressed with the children's area, large and beautifully designed. They have blue bagged Stories to Go kits designed to be grab-and-go, with five books around a common theme: great idea. Outside the library on the First Street side there is an outdoor terraced area perfect for eating or relaxing on a nice day. Overall, not quite as large as the Castro Valley location (and I definitely missed the humongous Castro Valley parking lot) but a beautiful library for the Lafayette community.

    Lights in the main room.
    Terry T.

    The Lafayette library is impressive. The interior is modern, spacious, and filled with natural light. There are several other rooms on the main floor. The chairs are comfortable. I saw lots of computers; if you bring your own there are a lot of outlets. What I did not see was a lot of books. I did not spend a lot of time wandering around the library to see if they were tucked away where I did not see them. The library was being used by adults, seniors, and kids. This library is open seven days a week with extended hours Monday--Thursday. This might sound like sours-grapes; my local library is open fewer hours and has to close on Wednesday and the ones in other nearby towns are open even less hours. If Lafayette pays an adequate extra tax assessment then they should stay open, if not the towns near me are being underserved by the library district.

    Children's area
    Desiree G.

    Wow, this library is awesome! I love that there are so many rooms for different purposes, like the Teen and Homework Centers, technology room, and individual working rooms for meetings or tutoring, etc. it's a beautifully appointed space, with lots of relaxation areas, young children's area and several outdoor patios. Help on hand for navigating the resources and information. The library cafe with indoor and outdoor seating is near the front entrance. There's free parking below the building as well. It's in the heart of downtown Lafayette, with restaurants, stores and a park nearbyI am really impressed and look forward to visiting again.

    Deana M.

    Absolutely lovely. It was by far the nicest library I've seen in the Bay Area. The design is very contemporary and unique made to look similar to a cabin. As soon as I walked in, I couldn't help admiring the area; all I wanted to do was look around. For the people wondering how big/small this new library is, it's bigger than the Danville Library and about the same size as the Dublin Library. However, the Lafayette Library blows both libraries out of the water in my opinion. This library has several types of rooms such as the Teen Center, Technology Center, Homework Center, and 3 "Small Meeting Rooms" that you can reserve for 2 hours at a time. There's even an outside patio in case you might to read/study on a nice sunny day. There are also plenty of public computers available as well as laptop cubbies with free wireless connection all around the library. But what really got me was their "Bicycle Parking." I've never seen such thing! All other libraries just have bicycle stalls but not this place. It is also very convenient to go here because it was walking distance from Lafayette BART and located right off the Mt. Diablo Blvd. exit from Highway 24. Not to mention, they're opening a "Bookmark Café" located just outside of the front entrance, but it's also walking distance from several fast food joints (i.e. Taco Bell and McDonald's) and restaurants. My only complain (hence a 4-star rating) is that this place is pretty noisy for a library. Both Dublin and Danville exercise the "silence is golden" rule a bit better. My tip is to reserve a room if you want to get some studying done or find a table in the back of the library (it's quieter there). Nevertheless, this is still my favorite library. [TIP] Parking is located underground on Mt. Diablo. Do NOT park in the small lot with the drive-thru espresso stand next to the library.

    Ivy S.

    I'm one of those people that doesn't have an addictive personality. I may enjoy the occasional Gin & Tonic but my true blue addiction is for books. I get giddy at the thought of getting lost in a story. The places a writer can take my imagination makes me itch for more. During the week they had a children's event that I took my son to. I was initially overtaken by the size of the building. Thankfully all of the employees are so nice and helpful. There's nothing worse than a surly librarian. The group of kids waiting for story time were to eat lunch we brought, outside in this little mini amphitheater. Unfortunately it was scorchingly hot out. The librarian had us all move indoors to the children's area for the stories. The theme of the stories were different foods and we were read different stories that revolved around eating and food. My 2 1/2 year old would not stop talking throughout the whole thing. I apologize to everyone. Then it was craft time! All the kids got to make a strawberry. The library provided all of the supplies. Paper, glue scissors, washable ink pads. Me and a nanny with a group of 3 kids kind of got together and had our own craft corner. It was so fun. Once the craft was done we had cookies! Yes, the library provided delicious cookies to everyone. It was so wonderful. I love this library. You can tell that a great deal of love and effort went into designing the space. If you're a resident of CoCo county you need to come here. It's a book lovers wonderland.

    Wanugee N.

    This is the most beautiful, modern and efficient community library I have ever been in! Carmichael, California (in Sacramento) is new and well designed, but doesn't come close. Granted, I am not a library person, because I don't read books, only periodicals, non-fiction and on-line info. But nonetheless, Lafayette and the Friends of the Library should be proud of this sparkling icon situated right smack dab in the middle of downtown Lafayette on Mt Diablo Blvd. - It has a spacious and beautifully designed modern architecture; - Covered garage parking for about 50 cars on 2 levels; - A large community meeting room for events and presentations; - A hands-on science and art discovery room; - Computers throughout; - Efficient and comfortable seating; - Great use of natural lighting designs; - High quality furnishings and decor; - Automatic bar-code reading conveyor belt book drop off return with printed receipt details; - A sunny southern exposed courtyard with benches; - A historical museum with an antique fire truck wagon: - And a Friends of The Lafayette Library (FLL) downstairs book exchange/second hand store packed with titles, for only $2 hard cover and $0.50 paperbacks! This is part of the Contra Costa County community libraries group, but at a time when libraries are threatened to be shuttered due to budgets, this one just opened in the middle of the recession due to the generosity of active fundraisers and donors. My favorite relative volunteers here, and she just bought 4 mystery paperbacks for a total of $2 dollars! 2 of the books barely look used! Not bad for over 1600 pages of reading! Kudos to the community!

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    Review Highlights - Lafayette Library and Learning Center

    One thing I really like about this library is how they offer a tutor in the homework center.

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    Diablo Valley College Library

    Diablo Valley College Library

    4.0(4 reviews)
    5.8 mi

    This community college library is located on the DVC Pleasant Hill campus (DVC also has a satellite…read morecampus in San Ramon, but without a library). It's been updated in regard to technology, but the study tables, etc. remain the same. Online access to the library and peripheral resources is excellent! The computer lab and the classroom at the far end of the library are nice and new and set up to promote a positive learning environment. You can also get a DVC Connect Card at the circulation desk if you don't want to go to the Student Life Office. The students who staff the library are nice and helpful.

    This library is strange…read more I have a like/ hate relationship with it. I like the copy machine and the printers, which saved me enough times as a student. The staples are free and all you have to do is load your card up with monies and you can use them any time you need. I hate being brought here for class "field trips" because beyond forced here for them, I never once used this library for any sort of research. Thats what the internet's is for. Duh. I like they wanted to teach us how to use the online site to look up information, because coming through those security doorways always hurt my ears so I never got into falling asleep here like others. I hate that there are no liquids allowed in here. I always had to hide my hot chocolate when making copies. And you ain't really lived until you've spilled hot chocolate in a library. I like that I never have to come here again... no wait... love. I love that I never have to come here again.

    Berkeley Public Library - Bay Area Book Festival ~ Follow your Heart to Graphic Novels | https://www.baybookfest.org  {5/31/2025}

    Berkeley Public Library

    3.9(132 reviews)
    8.5 miDowntown Berkeley

    My hubby, our toddler and I stopped by on Saturday to kill sometime before dinner! Berkeley Public…read moreLibrary's kid section is great! Our almost 2 year old had a blast playing in their kitchen, hiding areas, with their huge stuffies, dolls, chalk, big wooden car, coloring and reading books with mommy! This library has been apart of the community since 1893! I love how you get to choose your own library card, she picked out some DVDS! Would return again, hopefully soon! SYOY! :-)

    The Berkeley Public Library is a cornerstone for learning and community engagement. Beyond its…read moreexcellent collection, the workshops and public fairs provide meaningful opportunities to develop skills, discover new ideas, and connect with others. These programs make the library an active place of growth rather than just a place to borrow books. The online resources are equally valuable--accessible, well-organized, and central to continued learning. Whether researching, studying, or exploring new subjects, the digital tools extend the library's reach far beyond the building itself. I would also strongly recommend the public laptops and the broader community resource network available through the library. These tools provide reliable access to technology for research, applications, and personal development, ensuring that everyone has the ability to stay connected and productive. The availability of these resources reflects the library's commitment to accessibility and practical support. Overall, the Berkeley Public Library stands out as a reliable and forward-looking institution that supports education, curiosity, and lifelong learning for the entire community. Please give them a visit and leave a positive review online.

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    Lafayette Library and Learning Center - libraries - Updated May 2026

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