More Than Just a Library Peninsula Center Library was the very first library I visited when I moved to the Los Angeles South Bay, and over the years, this place has been through a LOT with me. I've used it during periods of unemployment, for booking study rooms while interviewing for jobs, and simply as a quiet place to sit, read, think, or get some work done. It has become one of those places that holds a lot of memories for me. First, the building itself deserves some appreciation. The modern design and huge windows that let in so much natural light are a must for me. Walking into a bright library just makes my day better. There's also an underground parking structure, although it's limited, and I especially appreciate it on those hot South Bay days when having my car parked in the shade makes a difference. I also LOVE the Friends of the Library sales. They have highly discounted books, CDs, DVDs, and -- my personal favorite -- PUZZLES! The larger monthly book sales are especially fun because they open up the big room and have a much bigger selection. I've bought countless books and puzzles here over the years. I've participated in their reading program, too, and the staff have always been helpful. More recently, work has made this location less convenient for me, so I don't get here nearly as often as I used to. I now visit Katy Geissert Civic Center Library more often simply because of convenience. I used to come here 2-3 times a week, and now I'm probably here around 2-4 times a month. It honestly makes me a little sad because I still love this library. The library's online/app services have also been incredibly useful. I've used them to reserve study rooms and place holds on books without having to make an extra trip. And speaking of study rooms -- these have been a lifesaver. Whether I need somewhere quiet and private to focus on work or a reliable place to take a virtual job interview, being able to reserve a room has been incredibly valuable to me. I also love the bookmark contests! I get to see the creativity of local kids, and some of their artwork is seriously impressive -- sometimes downright jaw-dropping. I love grabbing a free bookmark on my way out. At this point, my typical library visit feels like: walk in for a book, walk out with a book AND a bookmark. The kids' area also looks like such a fun space, even though I don't personally use it. Overall, I love the staff, programs, resources, architecture, and just the general vibe of Peninsula Center Library. It has been much more than a place to check out books for me. It has been a quiet refuge, a workspace, an interview space, a place to discover books, and occasionally a place to find a great puzzle for a few dollars. Even though I don't visit as frequently as I used to, this library will always have a special place in my South Bay story. And yes -- I'll probably keep coming back for those Friends of the Library sales and puzzles. read more

I luv this library, it's big, clean, convenient (open 7 days) & staff is super friendly. There's always art on display by local artists. When I stop to browse the paintings & photography, it's like a little indulgent break in the middle of the day that I didn't know I needed. I always leave just a tad bit happier :). There are 2 parking entrances, one on Silver Spur & the other on Deep Valley (rooftop w EV charging). They have book sales pretty often which I hope to check out in the future :). read more

Peninsula Center Library - beautiful artwork by local artists - Libraries Near Me - Rolling Hills Estates, California

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I am writing this review for the passport services I went in for, Judy who helped me out was AMAZING! She is so sweet and really helped me with my photos which can be taken right there for $15, she ensured I had all the correct info and assisted with a copy of my ID to complete my renewal application. I had no idea I could have such a smooth process, thank you to this library for making this usually stressful experience a very enjoyable one. Located in a very clean and well kept library, I 100% recommend coming here for passport services and general enjoyment and appreciation of the library itself. Parking is easy to find and all staff I encountered was so helpful in guiding me. I cannot wait to be back and enjoy other things this library has to offer. read more

By far my favorite library!! Highly recommend!! I love how clean it is, the large selection of books and awesome children's area. The librarians are kind and helpful if you need assistance. read more

This library is very spacious and organized. Quite a lot of workspaces, it was nice to see them actually being used. The staff is friendly and helpful. They have a cute shop too! Full of really interesting trinkets and jewelry. There is a kids section, and what seems to be an area where they can have fun. I can see that being an issue for anyone not inside of a workspace. They have their own parking, which is also spacious. read more

Great Library books sale & donations in the lower garage of the library! Great prices, variety including a wide variety of everything from foreign books, children's and musical records, 50c paperbacks. The Wonderful staff who donate their time are attentive & absolutely kind, patient and helpful to get you steered in the right way whether a receipt or questions. Come during working hours on the weekend. read more

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This library is so cute and spacious! They have quiet areas and general seating for studying and reading. They do have free WiFi and parking! There's an elevator fyi. I definitely will come back to study! :) support public libraries!!! read more

I have been in more libraries and spent more time studying in libraries than I care to imagine. Ive conducted high level historical research in special collections in the US, UK and Africa. Im stunned to report the absolute lack of enthusiasm at this library when coming to check out books to read to my 4 year old. I was ultimately stymied by the library card process!!!! Im worried about this place... read more

THIS LIBRARY IS A NOISY LOUD ZOO!!!! It specifically states in their code of conduct that "Noise should be minimized and kept to an appropriate level so that it does not interfere with the use of the library by others." THEY DO NOT FOLLOW THEIR CODE OF CONDUCT. If you expect this to be like a university library where it's quiet, classy and civilized, you will be incredibly disappointed. They allow people with no common sense to come in, be loud and play cards as a group next to people who are tutoring and studying quietly, and it's perfectly accepted. They have a section where high schoolers are allowed to talk at the top of their lungs. The only quiet area is upstairs. Everytime I'm in this library I'm enraged by the noise level and I don't think I've ever been in such a disorganized, loud library in my entire life. It's a shame that a wealthy neighborhood like Palos Verdes accepts and condones their library to be organized like this. The Walteria and Redondo Beach libraries are more of what civilized person thinks of a library. I hate this library with a passion and think they should enforce more noise control. It's louder than Starbucks. It should not be advertised as a library. read more

I used to go to this library when my daughter attended the PV schools, i.e., PV Intermediate and PV Peninsula High, but haven't been there for many years. I went there last week to renew my library card and check out a DVD. It is the way I remember it: beautiful library with friendly and efficient staff. I love this library! read more

I really like this library. Clean efficient quiet and lots of benefits. Used it for years and still amazes me. From the kids section to used movies or games to the fax machine. It rocks all corners! Enjoy! read more

We visit here frequently and it's consistently a happy visit when we go. We had some trouble finding it along the main road at first so for reference it's near the Peninsula shopping center (hence the name haha). The parking lot is spacious and easy to access. Don't forget to bring an empty bag for convenience if you're planning to check out several books like my kid likes to do. They were so sweet about offering my kid her very first library card (we've been to other libraries and didn't know it was even an option at her age) which of course she is so excited about. She is an avid reader and this place truly fosters a love for reading. The staff is welcoming, friendly, and helpful! One of the most organized libraries we've been to. Definitely better compared to others. From book holds to kids events, they always seem to be on top of it. We really enjoy their reading programs too, like the 1000 books before Kindergarten and for summer reading. They also have apps that are easy to use and very useful to download. Highly recommend! read more

[Review #780] 2023-067 The Palos Verdes Library District (PVLD) was established in 1929, & the Peninsula Center Library is 1 of 3 libraries (other 2 are Malaga Cove & Miraleste Libraries) in the system serving in the Palos Verdes Peninsula. PVLD's libraries has lots to offer in terms of events & programs for the community: from their extensive collection of books, movies, ebooks & emagazines, to the Annex for teens, to story time (even in Mandarin) for children, to passport & notary services. PVLD's mission is to connect with the community through communication, engagement, & fundraising. I first discovered the Peninsula Center Library after I started my new job in 02/2022, & found out The Foundation had donated a sculpture by CA Sculptor Brad Howe that's located across the street from our temporary office. Since 04/2022, I've been a regular at the library, bringing my kids on the weekends. Yes, you read right -- weekends; they open on Sundays from 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM, its sisters are only open on Saturdays. PCL is the largest of the 3 with meeting rooms along with audio/visual equipment available for rental; complimentary WiFi is available in public areas for work or study. I was an avid reader as a child; with limited funds, I read more books from the library than I owned. I always joined the summer reading program when I was in elementary school, placing top 3. My local Chinatown library was great for its size & collections... if I had this access as a child, I'd be too overwhelmed to even attempt to finish any type of category/collection. My inner child wishes to return several decades & this library will be my second home. LOL I absolutely love, love, love this library!! Can't you tell by some of my pics? ;-) And even more so since the elimination of late fees during Summer 2022! The children's books are set-up so little readers can easily grab what captures their eye/interests. Oh how I wished I knew about this library when my kids were toddlers. The youth section does an amazing job rotating activities every month (I think?)... from scavenger hunts to coloring to arts & crafts. To encourage new readers & retain the interests of current readers, there's a dedicated wall & bookshelves that showcases the latest toddler to young adult books, & the far right top rack holds brochures & pamphlets of current events & library info. For the slightly older student set, there's a PVLDWriMo event series that includes writing workshops & write-in events, with peer feedback that's held in fall. Is the timing meant to coincide with the start of school to help these tweens/teens with their writing creativities? Dunno know, but I thought it was a great idea. The events rotate amongst the PVLD libraries with most held here. For the adult patron, there's plenty of books, movies, ebooks & emagazines (from OverDrive, Hoopla, kanopy, PBS Video, pressreader, etc.) to choose from. They even have video games! What!?! With your library card, you can also access LinkedIn Learning (for free), with thousands of online courses for personal development or in-demand skills for career development. PCL even offers activities for adults & seniors like "take & make crafts" (I did an Air Plant Terrarium that lasted 18 months, which is an amazing feat for me... I'm so talented, without a green thumb, that I can even kill a cactus), qi gong classes, smart gardening - composting 101, etc. I would say their annual "Summer Read-A-Palooza" is probably the best & most active program that involves all ages with prizes to earn from young to old. This is the 3rd library district that I've enrolled both kids in the summer reading program: Palos Verdes, Torrance (home library), & L.A. The librarians are super nice & helpful! My son, who is usually shy, is confident to ask for help from the librarians at the youth desk. He's a big Pokémon fan (since kindergarten), so anytime he can get his hands on those books, he will grab them all & try to finish each in a day by reading during his meals, before & after school, & for his bedtime story. He's 7 now, & often "borrows" his older sister's chapter books or graphic novels, such as Amulet, The Mysterious Benedict, Percy Jackson & the Olympians series. My daughter's favorite author is Rick Riordan (authored Percy Jackson). I was hoping to start her on The Math Inspectors series but haven't been able to find these at any library. I love its concept of: math word problems, good mystery, short & easy to read chapters. I could go on & on about the Peninsula Center Library, & max out on Yelp's review character limitations so I'll end it here. I LOVE THIS LIBRARY for their books, resources, events & activities!! Highly recommended for you & your family! read more

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Stopped in to find some travel guides. Evan at the reference desk went out of his way to ask if we needed help and took us right to where we needed to be. He was incredibly friendly and helpful. Great library and the staff make it even better. read more

This library 's collection is out of touch with the communities demographics. I have written to the Library Board several times to address this alignment. The Librarians who choose the collection obviously have their own agenda and preferences without regard to the public they serve. Desk staff is always polite and helpful. Book sale area needs serious attention as it appears to be a dumping field of books. Why are all the lights turned on at around 6 am? It seems like a waste of energy and money . read more

Such a fantastic place to get work done or just read a book. The workstations and utilities are excellent. Be back soon to explore other; facets they have to offer. read more

Peninsula Center Library - Excellent Workstations! - Libraries Near Me - Rolling Hills Estates, California

A fantastic local library that the community can enjoy and respect. Great resources both in person and online. Staff are competent, helpful and friendly. Lots of free parking. read more

Love this library! It's designed beautifully and perfect for all guests. There are areas for self or group study. Quiet areas for reading. They also have a wonderful kids area. - areas for study - private rooms - parking - summer reading program for children - events - so many books! - gift shop - passport services read more

Passport renewal including picture taking. The staff members were friendly, professional and efficient. The facility is clean, has plenty of parking and central location on The Peninsula. read more

Excellent location on the 2nd floor of the library for passport application processing. The method of payments available are cash and checks. Staff will help you with details. They are very nice. Bring your photo and copies with you. Free parking. Very relaxed environment. Must make an appointment. read more

Beautiful library with friendly staff. They offer notary and passport services. I will definitely be back with my little one for story time.

I go here to study and to read for school. Unfortunately the noise levels made by groups of kids dont really allow me to focus much.

Please READ!! I just want to caution other people especially since I know a lot of teens and students often come to this library to study. As someone who comes here often too, I felt uncomfortable after an encounter that I had. I was approached by a man (who was definitely not an employee) while I was minding my own business. I might be overreacting, but I'd rather be cautious than let this happen to someone else, especially if they're a minor. What happened was that a man came and sat near me, then he left but came back again and this time he asked for my phone number. I felt uncomfortable because he looked almost twice my age, and I'm pretty young and probably look underage. When I said no, he then asked if I'd be interested in working for him in the adult industry. Even after I said no, he continued to press the issue and even mentioned a contract. After I said no a second time, he finally walked away, but seemed pretty frustrated with me and like he was trying to keep his composure. At that point, I felt really uncomfortable and left quickly when I noticed he was still nearby. I regret not letting the staff know right after it happened, so I'm leaving this review now so that both the library staff and other visitors can be aware of this. If anyone else experiences something similar or is approached by this man, I'd really encourage them to report it to the staff if they feel uncomfortable. And this by no means is an issue with the library itself, which is why I'm still leaving a 5-star review. I truly think this is an amazing library and I don't want this one situation to stop me from returning. However, I just found it unsettling and inappropriate that someone would ask about working in the adult industry, especially in a place so many teens and underage people visit. Also, to describe him (I know it's not a super detailed description, but I hope it still helps), he appeared to be in his 30s, athletic/fit, and seemed pretty tall. Since I was sitting when he approached, I didn't get an exact idea of his height, but I wanted to share what I could. Even if I am just making a big deal out of this, I hope nobody else has to experience this. read more

This is a beautiful, wonderful resource to the community. I appreciate all that they do here. The place also offers much needed privacy and care for those who need to focus on work or studies. There is plenty of parking, both with a lot and street parking. If you appreciate art and talent, the main entrance displays students' and people's artwork many times in the hallway. A small, quaint gift store nestles inside by the library entrance. There are tons of books, DVDs, video games, and resources to check out here. There are also newspapers and seating in the back with natural light if you enjoy sitting and chilling at the library. Upstairs has more study space. What I love the most are the study rooms I can reserve for an hour or two. This is hands down the best place for me to do work without any distractions or noise - which still occurs at coffee shops. Sometimes people occupy the study rooms they haven't reserved for, so you would need to ask them to leave if you've booked the room. I find this the only inconvenient thing which has been consistent. The staff is mostly kind and very helpful. I haven't run into too many grumpy staff here. Over the years there has been renovations, such as the parking lot outside. I look forward to the progress and continuous establishment of this library. It is a great resource and a gift. read more

This library is clean and quiet, Love that there are study rooms available for reservation. If your kid is a Demon Slayer fan, this may not be the place to come. Seems to be popular here. read more

Peninsula Center Library - Study room - Libraries Near Me - Rolling Hills Estates, California

Five stars from me I love this place. I can't believe how easy and efficient this library is. There's lots of space to work. The staff are very efficient and friendly. It's really clean too. No need to feel uncomfortable about Covid. Parking is right in the car park. There is street parking. read more

This is a gorgeous library with a well thought-out design. I love heading over to this library to stroll and peruse over their books. Currently they do have an art collection from local artists including the local high schoolers . Please go check it out and support the arts. They do have a huge selection of API language books. I am so lucky to have come across so many books in the Korean language. I am in love. Some of their DVDs are scratched so badly and do not work. read more

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I usually go to this place two times a week. The staff there Are pretty nice. And is a great place to study, except for some parts are really loud filled with teenagers coming home from school to study. It would be better if they were more quiet but it's still a great place to be. read more

Came to this library by accident because the ad says passport and visa services. No, they don't offer visa. Decided to stay around and found this place very comfortable. They maintain a very comfortable temperature when LA was going through a heat wave. So many books, so many students using the library for their studies and research, so many "student's or private@ booths and so many books of many languages. read more

Plenty of parking, clean, and friendly staff. There is a drive up book return box right outside of the building so you don't have to park in the structure. read more

Great Library! The main thing I love about this library is that they have a great used/donated bookstore downstairs just off the parking lot. You can really find some treasures down there. ...Everything from books onto VHS, DVD, CDs, and vinyl. Great place to look around! They also have a passport office inside the building where you can get your passport renewed. read more

Peninsula Center Library - The used book and record shop in the parking lot. - Libraries Near Me - Rolling Hills Estates, California

Came here for an author book signing event for "Last Boat Out of Shanghai" with Helen Zia. It was interesting to hear Helen's perspective and the reasons why she wrote the book and the process behind the research, so forth. Got my book signed as well, which was pretty cool. It was an event sponsored by other organizations in the community, but hosted at the library in one of their community rooms. There were a good amount of people there, at least 80+. Underground parking lot available, free. Children's area had a story-time theater area, along w/ some train/wood/kitchen sets for the little ones to play with. Didn't get to explore any other area though. read more

I love the environment the staff here evokes. It's a pretty building with all kinds of literature resources.

First time here ! Absolutely Beautiful and Spacious. Very large selection of books,music, magazine. Several comfortable places to study, read and get work done or just relax. I will most definitely be back. read more

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The library is nice and all the workers are very friendly! Some of the study desks need to be cleaned though. They have have stains on them. I was gonna ask for some sanitizing wipes lol! Also, people are a bit loud there and don't use their whisper voices (they should put more signs or have someone walk around to monitor or remind people). It says the third floor is a quiet floor but it was somewhat noisy - bring headphones !! Other than that, the location is nice and the study rooms by the window are great!!! read more

Great study spot. Plenty of space to study (tables, seats). Area where there are spots to eat locally. Computers available for use, printing available, and for the most part quiet. Glad there are several libraries local to use and choose from. No complicated process to get a library card for residents in the Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills areas read more

We love the Peninsula library. I visit 2-3 times a week with my kids. They have a great system on their website and app where you can select the books/cd etc you want and place them on hold. Once they are available they email you saying your book/cd is available for pick up. The library is spacious and well kept. Their selection is nice and there is always something for anyone. Would highly recommend to others. A great place for young families. read more

Awesome Place! This library is a great place to come and spend some time if you need a break! They have got very friendly staff who want you to find the books you want or help you with anything you need. They have study rooms which are maintained cleanly and can be used if you need to attend any personal meetings or calls. The book selection is very large and they have a printing service which is great! Good place! read more

Peninsula Center Library - Libraries Near Me - Rolling Hills Estates, California

This review's for Passport Administration only. We love that it's open 7 days a week, and it's online appointment system is super awesome, convenient and easy. Processing fees the usual standard, no complaints there. But on a Sunday afternoon, the so called garage parking was completely packed and teeny-tiny spaces obviously for compact cars only. Street parking was all full as well. Parking situation was so not-family-friendly we were ~20 minutes late to the appointment. The real bummer was with the unfriendliness of the girl at the counter processing our passports. She rolls her eyes because we brought in our own passport pictures, warning us the passport authority may reject our photos/application altogether BUT we can retake our photos there for $15 each. When we declined, she was all pissy and stopped talking to us just stapling papers. My husband had to politely ask if we were done and she said yeah. Although it was quick and short but the customer service made us frown. Glad we didn't heed her threat, because our whole family got our passports super fast in about 2-3 weeks. read more

This is probably one of the best libraries I've ever been to! Not only do they have a wide selection of books, DVDs/CDs, magazines, etc, but they also have great resources for studying! Just go to the second floor, and there's plenty of individual quiet study desks and even comfortable chairs. If you wish to do group studying, there's study rooms on the first floor. Everything is clean, bright, well-conditioned, and the hours are great. And I believe food is allowed! I'm planning to do all my board studying here! :) read more