Gorgeous! You have to visit yourself go appreciate the architecture and vibe. I can't believe this is my first time! Designed and completed in 1990 by American architect Charles Moore, and influenced by California architect Irving Gill. I came to get my special edition Laufey card and join the Laufey book club read more

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The Oceanside library is great. They have a beautiful fountain area out front that are very nice to look at and a great place for local events to be hosted. The location is fantastic and within walking distance of the pier and other attractions. Parking is plentiful as long as there is not a huge event going on. There is street parking all around, and a large parking structure as well. The library is not the biggest library but there is a decent selection. The staff and guards are courteous and helpful. There is a bathroom. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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This was my third or fourth visit to the Oceanside Library, and I think they've done a much better job managing the facility than on my previous visits. That said, it still feels like a gathering spot for many unhoused individuals. I understand public libraries are meant to be welcoming community spaces, and there's nothing inherently wrong with that, but it does make me a little hesitant to bring my kids here. Today was an exception because they completed the summer reading challenge and earned free fair tickets. The children's area is a huge positive. It's separated from the main library, feels safe, and the staff working there during our visit were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Unfortunately, because of its location, you'll still occasionally see people walking through from the main library. Parking is another challenge. No matter what time I've visited during the week, finding a spot has always been difficult. The front desk staff came across as less welcoming than I'd hoped, while the children's staff completely made up for it with their excellent customer service. I'm a strong supporter of public libraries and the resources they provide to the community. My rating reflects the value of those services rather than the behavior of other patrons or the customer service experience alone. Despite a few drawbacks, I'm grateful our community has access to a resource like this. read more

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I love this library! It's so bright and cheery and there are so many cool places to hang out and study. They have a 3-D printer and three study rooms that you can reserve for two hours per day. Definitely a must visit. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Mural view from a study room - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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A great spot to take a break from the world. It's clean and bright. Lots of books and space. There is even an used bookstore with many gems available at bargain prices. I wouldn't hesitate to drop in here again when in this part of town. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Used books - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

How do I feel about the Oceanside Library? The fountains outside the front of it relax me. I noticed a few people who may have been homeless but they were not begging or sleeping. Inside there is a security guard at the entrance that reassured me of the stewardship of the library. Atmosphere: 5 Stars. The lobby of the library is spacious and filled with natural light. The art and displays of the library are pretty. The layout appears to be designed with sections for children of various age groups as they mature. It is close to a lot of places to eat. Service: 5 Stars. The person at the front desk wore a suit and carried a friendly presence worthy of being the mayor. He was most helpful. I believe I saw others there who work with kids as a part of the library's reading program. Value: 5 Stars. There are many books, DVDs, audiobooks, desks to work on your business, and computers. Free Wifi. Quality: 5 Stars. Worth visiting if you are passing through Oceanside or living nearby. A relaxed, kid friendly, and safe environment. I figure that parents and kids are the biggest winners at this library. read more

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This is a really cute library! I love the fountain outside. I really appreciate how interactive they are during their story times. The little one has a blast, and gets super excited when we go. I like how in the kids area they offer 2 "baby" friendly bathrooms, and it's always nice and clean. I also really enjoy how they offer different activities through out the week for the littles. We were a huge fan of baby yoga and would love to see that come back. They have a great selection of books and enjoy how welcoming the staff is. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Storytime - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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This is a really nice library. I've started reading again and have an OC and an Orange library card. On my travels to Oceanside, I wanted to check out theirs. Its two levels, and I noticed several stations for doing homework. It's one of the quieter libraries I've been to. I almost wished I lived in Oceanside so I could frequent the library more often. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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Really nice, spacious and empty library. Came here to take a meeting during the LA fires and the librarian on-site was really nice about helping me book a room. The downside is that the Wi-Fi is really spotty and slow. I wasn't able to take my Zoom meeting and had to resort to using my phone hotspot. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Very pretty and coastal - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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***This review is for exterior view only*** OMG... first time ever seeing a big beautiful water fountain in front of a library. It's no other than the Oceanside Public Library. It was really nice to sit on its steps with our Handel's ice cream and enjoy watching the mosiac water fountain. It would have been nice if they had benches here for us to sit, but the steps will do. We were here on a Sunday so the library was closed. I would have loved to check out the library though. I will have to plan an official library visit next time I'm in the Oceanside area. As we were leaving, I noticed they have their book drop off bins on the sidewalk alongside the street. You don't even have to get out of your car to drop off your books. Cool! Good thinking Oceanside!! read more

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The entire upstairs was full of tweakers and homeless people. One guy was yelling and twitching on the floor and no one was doing anything about it. It seems like the norm here. This could be a nice place if they could keep it for actual library activities read more

This is a BBL (Big Beautiful Library) lol The fountains outside are so pretty! They were having a book sale today which is so sweet. Everyone needs to support their local libraries and read voraciously! I need to do more of that myself but I'm too busy reading and writing Yelp reviews! Read books to your kids, I did when mine were young and they both love books!! read more

Oceanside Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

It is very cute for a library, but definitely overrated on Instagram. The area around it is also pretty sketchy and there aren't a lot of good businesses nearby. read more

I've been coming here for years and have got to say that out of all the libraries I've been to, this one is the most friendly and makes me feel like less of an idiot for asking questions. I've printed here before and totally forgot that THEY ONLY TAKE CASH!!! I almost feel like the minimum requirement to work here is to make you smile and leaving with an enriched experience. The staff here really live up to this expectation and serve with pride and integrity. Sam, you knuckle head, was thoughtful and compassionate for my lack of cash and helped me print out my water bill! You guys rock! read more

Oceanside Public Library - Fun money! - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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Book donations M-F 9-5 My husband and I have SO MANY books. We've both worked in bookstores for most of our careers. We have old textbooks, free books from conferences, paperbacks, my mystery book collection, childhood favorites, biographies, fiction and nonfiction... It's not as noticeable except when we move. And then we're like "shit, we have a lot of books!" Over Christmas our neighbor accidentally flooded our garage causing us to clear out everything to re-drywall. Bottom boxes of books were done for, but the others were fine. But it got us thinking that this is a good time to downsize and unclutter. I had always loved the idea of donating to a library, especially since they usually have book fairs since they tend to be underfunded. My grandpa volunteered for the Friends of the Albany Library in Albany, Ca for decades and it was so much fun for us kids to "help" at the annual book sale. Best part was that last couple hours when you could buy a whole bag of books for a dollar. (Or maybe we were getting the cute grandchildren discount?) So many wonderful memories of discovering new stories and adventures! So I was determined to donate to the Oceanside Library. A little tricky - they only accept a maximum of 8 boxes per day. They have an unfortunate driveway to their loading dock where you have to either back out into traffic or do a 12 point turn to turn around. The staff there is a little curmudgeonly and are way too young to already be grumpy. I guess I was looking for gratefulness. But I realize now that I had an unrealistic image of myself as the beatific angel bearing gifts. To them, it's just a job. It was hard to donate so many favorites but I just tell myself that someone is going to discover a treasure at the next book sale. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Book donation - total 14 boxes - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

It looks nice from the outside, and [generally] OK from the inside, but there's an obvious unresolved issue. Despite having at least one security guard "on duty", the row of little tables on the second floor is often inhabited by several people who use the library as a flophouse. Can somebody get one of these guards to get off the chair in the entrance, get up to the second floor, and ensure that study spaces are reserved for people who aren't sleeping in a "library"? read more

Breathtaking Library by architect Charles Moore, channeling and modifying Irving Gill but with tasteful post-modern detailing. Our favorite part of this library is the amazing fountain in front, it's so large it would be better defined as a man-made pond. The sound of running water draws you in and you can easily just sit there and relax while watching the water. They got rid of the fence going around it making it feel much more welcoming and spacious. You'll get Modernist, Mediterranean, and Spanish vibes all from the same place, can't say I've seen any other buildings that have the same feel. The white stucco and blue also make it very iconic. Currently open w/out an appointment. We were about an hour early before open time and was unfortunately not able to go inside. On our next trip we would love to try again with the kids. read more

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I stopped by here with my kids, who love books and love libraries. The children's librarian was so kind and helpful. There is a great selection of books in the children's section, including a fun play area for younger ones. The library itself is beautiful and I love the fountain in front. read more

They have a great community room that is used for many awesome events. We came for their Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Community Service Event. The community room is always clean and well maintained. The bathrooms are also well kept and always clean. They have free street parking and an attached parking structure as well. The fountain out front is very nice. This library is connected to the City Hall Building, so it's easy to find. I enjoy coming here and look forward to more events. read more

A very nice quiet library with plenty of seating available. The outdoor fountain is amazing and huge which is a great place to sit around and relax while reading a book. The library staff were nice and polite. read more

Oceanside Public Library - Beautiful fountain 2022 - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

The downtown library in Oceanside has a great location, easy to spot. The building will get your attention, it's beautiful, it has many, nice tall palm trees in front and a pretty water fountain. The decor for Christmas it adds more charm to it. The library is huge with many resources, it has a small store as well where you can get used books and DVD-s. It's closed Sundays, otherwise, no complaints, they it has a great selection of books, if you live in the area, this place is a great option that I'd explore even more! read more

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I love the rewards that you can get for the children's summer reading program! I have such fond memories completing it as a child as well. However, today we were reading books in the children's area and we were told to be quiet while reading books. My daughter was not making any noise and was quietly listening while I read her book to her. Apparently, reading at a normal volume is too loud in this library. We are HUGE library fans and go to different libraries all the time, including many story times. We have never been told that we were too loud, especially since we were not yelling or playing loudly. I think we will stick to the Encinitas library where children are allowed to be children and reading aloud to your child is encouraged. read more

Oh my word! Beautiful location! Fountain, palm trees, tile work. Beautiful! Staff is helpful if you need them, leave you alone if you don't. The Spanish speaking readings for kids are wonderful! The lady is very nice. Patient with kids. read more

It's a nice library in a not-so-nice area... only street parking in front of the library, and in the evening you might see sketchy thug-looking peeps walking around so just be careful. (Update: a Yelpers told me they have a parking lot on the side. That's good news!) That aside, the library is nice with a good collection of fiction and nonfiction! I'm not sure which library system belongs to, certainly not the San Diego County, so you don't have many options for interlibrary loan, but the library itself is quite sufficient with books, DVDs, computers to use, lots of desks and quite surrounding to focus, study and get sh1t done. They are also part of the Serra Cooperative Library System for digital loans. You just need to sign up with your library card and pin to check out Ebooks for your kindle. Overall it's a good library. I could find what I needed so it's all good. The books are easy to find and the shelves are tidy and organized. I didn't interact with anyone but at least I didn't see any shady people around inside. Outside, it's a different story... read more

Oceanside Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

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As far as libraries go, I really like this one. I take a number of state exams and I find studying at a library helps me focus better than at home. The second floor of this library is so quiet! I have been impressed how respectful people have been so far. There are desk along the back wall I like to sit at and do some reading. There's an incredible kids section too. The murals and reading nooks are so cute and I can't wait to bring my nephew next time he's in town. They really went all out. Definitely come check out the library (haha, check out, get it? Like check out a book?!). You won't be disappointed! read more

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Just wonderful experience, clean and the staff is profesional and friendly. Love the fountain outside is just like a resort style landscape

Love this place for studying! It's gorgeous and has so many resources for anyone to access. I'd love to give 5 stars but the last several times I've been I've had to endure the echoing screams of young children almost the entire time. Not sure why some parents think it's acceptable to let their screeching child run around the aisles as they casually peruse the book selection. Don't forget friends, libraries are inside voice places! read more

Beautiful library! We stopped by with the kiddos to get a few books and it was a short walk to the beach after that. I did learn that they're not connected to the county library so made the mistake of returning books here but they did mention that it happens so they do return them to the county, it just takes a couple weeks. read more

I love going to Oceanside Library! The Library staff members are very knowledgeable and respectful. If you don't have a mask, they kindly give you one. They often have unruly guest inside the library, the staff and on staff security handle the situations well. I love being able to reserve or hold books at other libraries, to be delivered to Oceanside. It is a clean, fun and safe environment! read more

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The library itself is quite nice - both inside and out. Adults are apparently expected to go upstairs - with most of the ground floor reserved for and restricted to non-adults - which library security staff will point out to anyone ignorant of or violating expectations. read more

I'm surprised that the Civic Library isn't listed on Yelp yet - yay for my "first to review"! I used to volunteer here back in high school for the children's department (and now my sister volunteers here), so this place is a very familiar place for me. This library is right next door to the Oceanside City Hall & the Oceanside Museum of Art (just to list some other major landmarks here). It could be considered to be a "pretty" part of downtown Oceanside. It's also within walking distance to the Oceanside Pier! There is a beautiful water fountain right outside the library with palm trees & other structures that are perfect for picture-taking on a sunny day. There is a parking structure right behind/next to the library & there's street parking, so parking is almost never an issue. As for the library itself, it's composed of 2 floors - 1st floor is children's w/ computer lab/periodicals/new releases & 2nd floor is adult/young adult/references/computer lab. The selection is fairly large, although probably not as good as the Dove Library in Carlsbad...but definitely enough for the general public. The main library also shares their "stock" of books with other branches in the city of Oceanside, so if you ever find that your book is at another location, you can request to have them deliver the book over here for you to pick-up at a selected time (very convenient!). They now have 2 self check-out stations so you no longer have to wait in line (they only have 2 check-out counters). The library also holds MANY community events open to the public - for both children & adults alike. There's an annual summer reading program that attracts many kids & young adults & I think it's the best educational event they put on every year. They've also added MANY more computer stations (compared to years ago) so you can always see a lot of people at the library on a weekend using computers. They also have printing/copying services available. There are plenty of seating areas for those that like to read inside the library - the 2nd floor has tables/chairs lined up on the edge of the building & most have outlets (for laptops/chargers). =) The only reason why I gave this place a 3 stars instead of 4 is because of the location. Because it's in downtown, adults are advised to not leave their children alone here at any time, especially in the afternoon/evening. You get a lot of different crowds here, and once you step outside the block where the library sits, it's a completely different world. read more

The staff is very nice and respectful . It is very organized and clean. Very peaceful read more

Oceanside Public Library - Front of the Oceanside public library - Libraries Near Me - Oceanside, California

The outside of the library is absolutely beautiful! The inside is nice, but doesn't quite have the same feel. Inside feels much smaller - and doesn't have an open/spacious floor plan as you'd think from the outside. The vibe is a bit crowded (and not by people) but maybe the layout (shelving, tables, desks, etc) could just use some rework. They have an upstairs, which is nice, but has that same cramped feeling. Along the back near the windows, there is some small work desks that fit 1 person. I saw a few tables that small groups could work at, but not many. There are also desks along the inner edge of the "balcony" looking down onto the ground floor that seemed like a nice place to work- likely a bit noisier than the seats by the windows. The desk I worked at along the windows was old and squeaky. I had to be careful not to move my desk/chair too often to avoid distracting others. This location could be a really nice place to work/study but some more modern furniture could really liven this place up! read more

I love this Library! Its spacious! The 2nd floor is where the computers are, and they also have chairs and desks here if you want a quiet spot to study. It is quick and easy to get a card, reserving books is easy too, you can do it online to save time. Side street parking, and there's a carpark beside it. Great Location! Less than a mile to the beach, short walk to restaurants, and the cinema. read more

I just recently moved here from VA. What I really like about this library is how easy it is to use their website, to put books in hold. I reserve a bunch of books for my daughter each week. I get an email when they're ready for pick up. I also like the cool machine they have for checking out books. There is street parking and a garage nearby. I've never had issues finding a parking spot. There are some sketchy people that post up by the library, but I never feel unsafe. The main thing I don't like is the fact that I forgot my library card and had to be issued a new card to checkout books because I didn't have the number. So a drivers license isn't acceptable? Very silly. The children's area is ok, but I've only brought my daughter once. They don't have a lot of programs for 2 yr olds. The fountains in front are cool, and the library is located near the farmers market on Thursdays. Overall, I like coming here. read more

Oh my heavens the entrance to this place. So tropical and grandiose. Water splaying everywhere....the grand entrance....the way you check out books on your own is super cool. Everyone is always very helpful and willing to drop everything to help! Thanks for making a tourist feel like a local! read more

Oh Oceanside, oh how I love thee. Just when I think your dark streets and sketchy creeps can longer surprise me! Bam... You did it again! I was totally surprised and shocked to find out that Oceanside has a spectacular library! I've been around the country and spent quite a few hours in libraries, so I feel like an unofficial subject matter expert in this matter. The selection is large with a wide assortment of reading options. The staff was super chill and really nice! Go grab a book and enjoy! Plus you should read more anyway! Yes!!! read more

Love this place. The little bookstore inside here is awesome, plus the librarians do a good job of setting up really neat events for us. I got a chance to meet some of the bros from NPR thanks to the Oceanside Library. Shouts out to the Book-Return item policy. Probably my favorite part of the library. xoxo *hearts* read more

I was really impressed with this Library it's Grand, it's beautiful, it's large, it's spacious, it's has very unique decorations outside and in.... I totally fell in love with this Library just a couple blocks from the ocean, in Central Downtown Oceanside if you like libraries check it out .....I love to go to libraries and I love when I go to a new city to check out their library , and I also like to check out there Zoos ! anyway you can also rent movies here they have a great selection of movies, you can rent so it's totally worth checking out //I hope you enjoy it read more

Libraries are awesome and this one is especially nice. But Holy Shit Nuts what is up with all the Homeless people in here!!!! I came in here to do some LSAT studying during my winter break and was amazed at the book selection and ample study space. However, I went to the bathroom and there was definitely a dude taking a nap in the handicap stall right next to me. In the study rooms there were homeless guys talking pretty loudly right next to me. And then there was another homeless dude that demanded to bring his bike inside because it was stolen 3 times before when he left it outside. But honestly, I dont care and have nothing against homeless folks. For the most part if you dont bother them, they wont bother you. read more