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    Oakland Main Library

    4.1 (99 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

    Oakland Main Library Photos

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    Sculpture at the library.
    Jacqueline F.

    This library is huge! And I'm glad I got to go. I wanted to study space and I found one. There are a lot of homeless people hanging out, but they were just doing their thing and didn't bother anyone. They were just trying to stay in from the elements and they were reading and doing other things that people do in libraries. They do require masks, which is fine by me, and they had people going around reminding people to keep their masks on and the folks complied. I was not bothered by their presence at all. I got to go up to the second floor which is fine for me. I didn't know this but you need a escort to go upstairs which is fine if you want to go in the elevator which I did. Once I got up there again it was nice, clean, people are generally quiet. There are some folks playing chess which was charming. and there's one guy on the phone but he didn't bother me. And I got to study and get my work done. And then I did get a escort back downstairs. I would definitely come back here again. Especially if I'm in the area and need a nice place to study.

    Sharice W.

    What a gem. Love the old school, classic feel of this library in Oakland's historic downtown. While it can be annoying to search for a charger on the upper floors, I appreciate this treasure being open on Sunday when a lot of libraries throughout the bay are closed. There are also cute additions such as the children's library and puzzle rentals. I would definitely recommend.

    Carol C.

    Date: 10/24/2018 Time: 1:50 PM 65° Sunny My visit to the Oakland Main Library was to the Children's Room to return one of their books that I found on the bench at the Elihu M. Harris State Building. I can only surmise that a child left the book behind and had forgotten about it. The Children's Room was my favorite section when I was growing up. I attended an elementary school nearby and there was always that weekly excursion to the library. Such childhood memories that I remember oh so well. There was a library aide reading children's stories. She always had our attention. It was here that I signed up to get my first library card, which was over 57 years ago. I was in third grade back then. Some of us students even ventured down their corridor to catch the elevator to the first floor - the main entrance of the library. At that point, I wanted to be a librarian in a public library. I was discouraged from pursuing that career, only to be told that I did not have the right temperament to be one. I guess I could be a little intimidating when I ask people to be quiet in the library. The library is a great place to do research, read books and newspaper, download documents if one does not have a printer linked to a computer at home, check out books and DVD's. It is also quiet enough for one to do his/her homework assignments without distractions of TV and video games. Of course, I reminisce about the Dewey decimal system and those wooden cabinets containing all those catalog cards. We did not have Google back then. The library always had sets of encyclopedias - Encyclopedia Britannica, World Book of Encyclopedia. LOL. Searching for a certain cookbook? If one knows the Dewey decimal system, go to the 641 section on the shelf. Science is in the 500 section; literature, 800 section; geography and history, 900 section. Egads, I still remember certain sections in the library.

    Fines and Fees Policy
    Deb B.

    OPL is great! Why spend money on books that take up room on your shelf, get dusty, and after 5-10 years you decide no longer bring you enough joy to take up space in your home, when INSTEAD you can utilize resources funded by your taxes to borrow books for free? That's what OPL is. They've modernized sooooo much since the mid-90s to now offer free online lending of audio books and books readable online. They even allow you to borrow books from other libraries through LINK+ AND used to (pre-covid) offer free museum passes through Discover and Go: https://www.oaklandlibrary.org/services/discover-go-visit-museums-more-free During Covid they offer sidewalk pickup at several libraries, including the Main Library on 14th St. When I hear about a book that I want to read I always reserve it with OPL and expect to wait anywhere from 1 day to 16 weeks (for new releases) for it to be available for pickup. The deal during covid is that once you receive an email notifying you that your book is ready for pickup, you show up at an open library during the open window (10a-3p Main Library) and follow the posted instructions to pick up your books. You either text the number provided with your name and library card, or you can wait in (usually a short) line and hand your physical card to a staff person. Although the most recent research is showing that covid isn't passed by touching surfaces, OPL is following so many guidelines that will at a minimum prevent catching the flu from touching. They put your books in a paper bag, collect your library card in a plastic cup - all to ensure they don't touch anything you're touching and you don't touch anything they touch. If you're returning books, you can't drop them off at the sidewalk pickup desk. Instead, walk 30 feet to one of the OPL dropoff boxes surrounding the library. They keep books quarantined for 96 hours before returning. Also! OPL advertises that they don't charge late fees, unless you've borrowed from another library via LINK+, in which case it's $1/day each day overdue. However, if you've had a non LINK+ physical book in your possession past the due date OPL will try to automatically renew it for you. It will work so long as no other holds are placed on the book. But if you've had the book too long - past 30 days of the due date, they will out of the blue send you an alarming message that you owe the price of the book (in my case, I got a notice that I owe $10 out of the blue - no warning or anything). I was surprised and returned the book. Tried to find more information online and *think* that as long as I return the book the fee will be waived. It did give me a scare, though.

    The librarian at Oakland Public Library very nicely welcomed me and told me no reservation was required, pictures were allowed and how the Library has three floors with teen's and children's sections. The ceiling is quite high with big windows, allowing plenty of bright light to reach the reading areas. People were either reading books quietly or discussing in whispers. Librarians were very supportive. If you are looking for a place with the "learning atmosphere" in Oakland, OPL is good. (But do not expect it to be 100% quiet)

    Magazines and dvds right up front
    John R.

    A few weeks ago I was listening to a podcast about libraries and thought "I've been in Oakland four years now, I ought to get a library card!" So I swung by and picked up my OPL card and am now re-living my youth. When I was a kid we'd go to the library every Thursday night and now due to a recent measure passed in Oakland to keep the libraries open later (yep this is more $ but worth it to me), I can stop by as late as 8 pm Monday through Thursday. The library is a little dated but works to cater to all in the community, from having magazines and dvds up front, to having a 'zine section (for the next few weeks the theme is women in cycling), and having shelves of graphic novels. Both the clientele and the librarians are pleasant and courteous. For those interested here's the podcast: https://99percentinvisible.org/episode/palaces-for-the-people/

    Artsy entrance
    Adrian P.

    Superb location. An array of books, DVDs, etc. to choose from. The children's department is vast as well. The ambience depends on the time of day though.

    DISPLAY FOR POETRY MONTH

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    1 year ago

    Got a chance to meet the manager. It was a great talking to her she is very knowledgeable. The staff at this place is A rated.

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    1 year ago

    Amazing place to visit and relax. The staff is friendly. It took me back toy book mobile days

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    Wonderful place to borrow books magazines games and more. You can book online and pick up these at your closest locations as well.

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    They've discontinued "Hot Picks" at this location for some reason, but it's still the best damn library in America!

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    Page 1 of 3

    Ask the Community - Oakland Main Library

    Does the library offer free computer service for members and a printer?

    I was at this library earlier today (5/26/2023). I needed to make copies of certain documents. The library allows free use of the computer for one hour. They also will extend the hour to two for use of the computer. Printing documents is 15¢ per… Read more

    View All 2 Questions

    Review Highlights - Oakland Main Library

    Many thanks to the staff at the OPL for allowing the public to use their restrooms during the Women's March.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

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    Alameda Free Library - Plenty of work/study area on the 2nd floor (north end)

    Alameda Free Library

    4.3(138 reviews)
    2.6 mi

    Soooo the library is a hub of information and I'd call myself a library enthusiast who's always…read moreseeking information. I've been going to libraries since I was a child, checking out books, magazines, dvds, and whatever else that can be checked out. The large amount of events for all ages is also a bonus - Baby & me, toddler, and Grown Folks story time, French Conversation Circle, book clubs, sewing club, teen volunteer opportunities and so much more. Do you want to learn another language? The library. Want a guide to a better diet, or a cookbook? The library. Want to score books to add to your ow library but at an inexpensive price? The Friends of the Library bookstore inside is also a gem. I've gone in a couple of times, but during the BOGO free sale, I left with about 20 books after going back and forth a few times once already at the register. It's convenient having a main library in such a convenient location. Parking isn't my bad, but if planning to spend more than five minutes in there it's easier for me to walk. The parking spots in the parking lot are too narrow and street parking is generally taken unless coming on a weekend.

    I love this library, first of all the resources are at a large. Everything is so organized and…read morereally easy to navigate through, I haven't really been to this library on a day that's super busy so it's not a place that's overly crowded although I should add I do go in the early afternoon before kiddos get out of school. My LO love their mother goose on the loose readings on thursdays, they have two times which I find to be very accommodating. This is for mamas and younger children , infant age! This library is totally kid friendly there children's calendar is definitely one to have on hand if needing something to do with your LO. They have all kinds of classes really a lot of stuff.

    Photos
    Alameda Free Library - Poetry display!

    Poetry display!

    Alameda Free Library - Super cute Totoro shadow box

    Super cute Totoro shadow box

    Alameda Free Library

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    Lakeview Branch Library

    Lakeview Branch Library

    4.3(42 reviews)
    1.0 miLower Hills

    Beacause of this library I don't need my printer any longer…read more Because of this library I no longer need to patronize FedEx Office. Because of this library I don't realky need Netflix. There is so much they have to offer and I don't have to pay for! Parking is more plentiful than it looks. Go inside and seek a parking permit. Your car will be safe from towing. If you're just parking there and not using the library while it is open you may have a not so pleasant surprise coming up. And, the best part is that the librarians and technicians are wonderful people.

    I'm here in Oakland, visiting some of the iconic locations that have stayed here for almost or over…read more70 years! The Lakeview Branch Library has got to be one of the smallest little fully functioning libraries I have ever seen. Tiny building hasn't been replace in all these years. It's been remolded and updated inside, even has all the modern things like the internet! Using the internet, I haven been in a library for as long as I can remember! Dewey decimal system .... I just heard of it, I have no idea how it works! You can still even get a "library card" here! My guide tells me he wasn't much of a reader, even as a child, but the big soft chairs they had were good to sit in. He tells me of this "card catalog" thing, that's where you looked up a book and then it told you where to find it. Oh God , I love Google way better! I'm glad iconic landmarks like this are still around, it takes someone past a certain age to remember all the thing here the way it used to be.

    Photos
    Lakeview Branch Library - Politically correct mural

    Politically correct mural

    Lakeview Branch Library - Sing my name to Freedom by Betty Reid Soskin, America's oldest (98) National Park Ranger!

    Sing my name to Freedom by Betty Reid Soskin, America's oldest (98) National Park Ranger!

    Lakeview Branch Library - Graphic Novels section

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    Graphic Novels section

    Berkeley Public Library

    Berkeley Public Library

    4.5(57 reviews)
    3.8 miSouth Berkeley

    Renewing my library card was quick and easy here! The staff was very nice…read more There's apparently a tool lending library. I have yet to try it, but it's so great when a library can offer tools to borrow! Short and easy walk from Ashby Bart.

    Small, serviceable library with children, teen, and adult sections to serve its community…read more As part of the Berkeley Public Library, the services offered here are separate from the Alameda County Library system. Be sure to register membership in this local library system to take advantage of the resources available from one of the foundational landmarks in the city of Berkeley. With mainly street parking that is scarcely available due to popular hotspots for locals and visitors during the weekends (public park across the street and a popular Buddhist temple next door), it's probably best to walk or bike if you live nearby or be prepared to park further away. They do have plenty of bike racks in case you're coming from a bit further out. The individual sections don't seem too big but do pack a good amount of books and DVDs to be borrowed. If you need help finding something, the staff members at the front desk are helpful and friendly. The rooms are well ventilated and lit by natural sunlight, quiet, clean, and has enough space for individuals and small to medium sized study groups. As with many libraries, with WiFi access, this location makes a great place to harness your focus and be productive and imaginative. Overall, while this location may be rather small, the Berkeley Public Library system has a few sites within the city and can certainly accommodate your resource needs. The bulletin boards often are plastered with flyers for community events and opportunities so even if you're not in need of the library services, it's a nice spot to stop by for a quick glance at what's happening around the city.

    Photos
    Berkeley Public Library
    Berkeley Public Library
    Berkeley Public Library

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    Piedmont Avenue Branch Library

    Piedmont Avenue Branch Library

    3.9(30 reviews)
    2.0 miNorth Oakland

    Tiny branch library, but it's the one in walking distance. If I can't find an ebook of something,…read moreI'll have the physical book sent to this branch, and it usually shows up for pickup within 1-2 days. Returns are super easy with all the book drops outside. The main library does a better job of curating adult books (new releases, hot titles) so I rarely come out of the Piedmont library with something I didn't already expect to pick up, but these little branch libraries aren't exactly sized for extended browsing.

    The Piedmont library is not just one of the smallest libraries in the Oakland Public library system…read moreI've seen, but one of the smallest libraries I have ever been in period. For it's size though it is a quality over quantity. There is a smart collection of magazines, books, DVDs, CDs, & graphic novels. Patrons here have access to the entire Oakland library online & all the libraries in CA through the Link Plus interlibrary loan system to pick up items on their hold shelf. There are two computers for internet. There is also a printer for print jobs or Xerox copies. Staff here is friendly. Kudos for the great selection of magazines including Lonely Planet for travel, Lucky Peach for foodies, & MOJO which is probably the best music magazine out there. Magazines is where the Piedmont Ave Branch Library seems to shine brightest. Piedmont Ave Branch Library is a short walk from Timeless Coffee which is a fully vegan coffeehouse serving heavenly hot drinks, desserts, & brunch. Check them out! The hours of the Piedmont Ave Branch Library are: Sun- Closed Mon- Closed Tues- 12:30pm to 8pm Wed- 10am to 5:30pm Thurs- 10am to 5:30pm Fri- 12pm to 5:30pm Sat- 10am to 5:30pm

    Photos
    Piedmont Avenue Branch Library - Accepting the Lois Foster Award

    Accepting the Lois Foster Award

    Piedmont Avenue Branch Library - Our branch won the Lois Foster Leadership Award!

    Our branch won the Lois Foster Leadership Award!

    Piedmont Avenue Branch Library - From our 80th birthday celebration, March, 2012

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    From our 80th birthday celebration, March, 2012

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch - Read this book coincidentally before MLK, Jr. day.

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch

    4.4(34 reviews)
    2.6 miDimond District, Lower Hills

    This library is located across the street from Safeway. The MLK Jr. book "strength to love" may be…read moreavailable here. Reference #252.06 King In the foreword Coretta Scott King says this is King's bestsellng book. It capsulizes themes from his sermons into essays. Some MLK Jr.'s thoughts: -"love your enemy" in a rhetorical sense, not literally. You don't have to "like them". -capitalism is materialistic. At extremes, it corrupts the soul... -"neighbor" is an unknown person Christians lends support to without knowing his identity. Altruism. -One can "love" someone who willingly performs a wrong act but wasn't conscious of consequences. "He didn't know what he was doing". God has faith that person would change if given right info. -Jesus was a nonconformist. -God saw the Egyptian Pharoh oppressing the Israelites as "evil". -God will not unilaterally lift the burdens off mankind. Man must do the work. God will assist.. -MLK Jr. found Ghandian nonviolence compatible with Christian beliefs. -God doesn't see Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodist, Black or white worshippers as distinct entities. ..... Note: not a practicing Christian. Just a student of humanities...

    I love the friendly staffs here. They gave me so much resources and let me rented a backpack full…read moreof hiker stick, binocular, maps, free pass, etc. They taught me a link that offers library cardholders to free concert tickets, tours, museums and etc. I have used so many and its free, but you only need to plan in advanced since it is limited availability. I have saved so much money on things I could have not afford otherwise. They offer free computer class, magic store, stories times, lawyers, tax help and so much more. I love taking my niece here and she enjoys the free markers, papers and peace. There is a limited small parking lot, but there are meter street parking's available. If you get hungry, then there is a Safeway across the street as well. This is my favorite library in Oakland.

    Photos
    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch - Finally their renovation is done! I was waiting for 7 months to come back here!!! Same as everyone:).

    Finally their renovation is done! I was waiting for 7 months to come back here!!! Same as everyone:).

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch - Adult section to study or quietly chat.

    Adult section to study or quietly chat.

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch - Children's section

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    Children's section

    Oakland Main Library - libraries - Updated May 2026

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