The Queens Central Public Library has a long history with me. I have seen this library develop over the years. On this special visit, I want to highlight the exceptional service I received from one of the librarians. He took his time to help me search for the book I was interested in, and he also escorted me to the bookshelves to find it. He answered all my inquiries and explained that a fashion show was about to start. I would have been in a rush to leave during this visit, but because the librarian was so helpful, I decided to stay for the evening event. I was able to use the self-checkout kiosk, and it was very easy to follow the instructions on the touchscreen. I observed a spectacular fashion show and had the opportunity to meet some amazing people. I would highly recommend that anyone interested in great activities, lessons, programs and events check out the Queens Central Library calendar. read more

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I LOVE THE QUEENS PUBLIC LIBRARY!! Full of resources and so much more than books. Parking and transportation is very close by. The staff is PHENOMENAL. Seriously. I needed to take a city exam and found the help I needed with that. Which was golden but. But get this- getting lost in the fiction section I found that they offer some literature as e books like what. I LOVE that. Like I said the people and the resources are great. I got a new library card when I went on this day bc mine was expired. 5/5 I highly recommend this cool warm and clean information source. I feel at home when I go here. read more

Queens Public Library - Central - Libraries Near Me - Jamaica, New York

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The library seems to have been updated, this is just a guesstimate because I haven't visited there for sometime, but it is so nice to walk in to. I do not know if renovations were made recently, but I love the look seems nice and clean and updated, am happy to see that. Thank you read more

Free,Secondary language clases! The space you have to sit down and actually do your research peacefully without any distractions! The staff are always available to help you as needed! read more

Came to renew my card and also get a new NYCID. The library itself is huge, nice workers and it's a good place to kill time if you're in the neighborhood with nothing to do. The only downside is people tend to be loud especially the Spanish speaking ones with kids running around like crazy. read more

I have been to this particular library a quite a few times over the years, for different reasons ,if it was for a book or to make photo copies of documents this library has always been there to help me out and has been a asset to the jamaica queens community as well.this library has helped so many people over the years,this library has also been a sanctuary for a lot of us who just needed an escape from what was ever going on in their lives at the time, Whether by a a book or just using one of their computers.this place has always been clean and the staff has been friendly and courteous. as long as I can remember this was the only main library we had on the south jamaica side of queens. This is the largest library in queens and one of the busiest also .I believe it is also one of the largest in the the United states. As the internet is slowly taking over the world and making alot of things obsolete. This place that we call the library cannot be replaced in my book .from the librarians to to the atmosphere of a good old fashioned library experience you just cant replace that with the technology take over. the human interaction cannot be replaced. And that is what the library gives you. But they always say reading is fundamental whether by reading a book or a computer screen .no matter were you are getting the information from as long as you get it and it simplify things for you .but the library is an institution that everybody and every generation should be able to experience. I hope it will never become extinct. read more

Queens Public Library - Central - Libraries Near Me - Jamaica, New York

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Ok hey my name is Mike caul and I happen to live in the neighborhood ok a few days ago I had some difficulties with my library card so I asked a young lady and she tried to help but I had a problem again because the computer tiemed out so I asked the supervisor named Kevin and he refused to help me so he said out loud you know what you're doing and when he said it was loud to the point of the matter was he tried to embarrass me so I'm gonna take action on this man so I would not recommend a soul to come here plus this man naamed Kevin is a bad influence on the young generation of young people working there.which tells me if the supervisor has no patience for people who are not intelligent in computers then how will the young employees treat older people who not computer literate ?? read more

As a parent, I like the cafe inside this library a lot. This is a great idea so that our little ones can snack and drink before going inside the Discover area or in between or afterwards. ;) Their Columbian coffee and croissant were my favorite! The little one enjoyed the fluffy croissant too! The Discovery area for kids is very organized with staff on each side of the entrance to assist when needed. No food or drinks allowed inside the discovery area so the cafe outside is just a perfect rest area for kids and parents. Inside the Discovery area, there is a fish tank with LIVE fishes, great for entertaining little kids. There is also a mini play area for kids who want to take a break from reading.. IF they read that is lol There are a few computers for kids to play educational games with. There are shelves after shelves of different kinds of children's books. My little one is still not so much into the reading yet, so that goes for the point of bringing her to this library. However, she did do a bit of exercise by bringing each book from one location to the next and climbing the mini staircase. ;D We shall come back just to have her spend some more time with BOOKS while I hop over to get my favorite Columbian coffee from the cafe kekekekeke read more

Queens Public Library - Central - Libraries Near Me - Jamaica, New York

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Very sad to return to the Queens Library Central location, having grown up at this library and literally checked out THOUSANDS of books, went to many summers of Reading Programs and activities. There is a disproportionate number of workers and people visiting the library, therefore the bulk of noise is actually 5-6 security guards wandering the library obnoxiously and cat-calling other employees in front of everybody. When I ask any worker at the Library for assistance with services, such as accessing the archives and previous exhibits and themes at the library, no one who works there had any idea about the layout of the library or anything about books or history at all. In the children's section, there are 2 women who were extremely rude to me and pretty much closed off the entire children's section so they can just sit and gossip and bully anybody who goes to the second floor to leave. Additionally, I walked in recently to 5 people at the media center desk watching a video of meat being cut and laughing at food videos, and once I asked for help with technology and clarifying the printer capabilities, I was denied help and treated with a lot of disrespect. To be honest-- I would at this time, NOT recommend parents allow their children to be at this library alone because it is not only toxic, but is not a child-friendly place. Very sad and disappointed to see what happened to the Queens Library that saved my life and that I loved so much. read more

I found this library to be alarmingly loud especially in the quiet areas. From the staff to some patrons. In the quiet areas cell phone music could be heard, as well as loud conversations from the computer area. I don't recommend anyone to go there on a Sunday to study...it's a waste of time and energy. read more

The most comprehensive selection of books in any library I have seen. It's been ages since I've been here but would come here a lot with my family as the location is not a good area. This location (I believe) is the main branch in the borough of Queens. Patrons do not need to spend money in order to read! Reading is fun which is can eleborate and put one's imagination to works. read more

I've always love coming to a local library. Visited the Central library today and put me in awe for all its updated services. I remember my last visit was YEARS ago. It's expanded customer service desk is centrally located on an ideally not to miss spot- right by the entry. Staff were heartwarming and helpful. I came in today to apply for a NYC ID. The processing time was less that I was expecting. It somehow helped in the process that I filled up my application form online. I spent my remaining time (based on my meter expiration) browsing the rest of the place. Each section has its own self-serve check out- how cool was that! The selections were expansive. I was over whelmed of how much choices I have. I have enjoyed much the media center- got the recent movie and music releases for a good weekend treat not causing me any dime. I saw teens and children having a good time hanging out at their specific sections. A recommended place to do the homework and any other school related activities. They have a self-service copy/scanning and printing service for a fee. The return kiosk is plenty- either inside the premises or outside. Looking for parking is a hustle but worth to be here especially considering all the programs for all ages they provide. The entire building is clean, tidy, organize and well lit. Who doesn't want to spend time in a public place like this? Have I mentioned that they have a café for your pleasure? read more

Great improvements these years Lots of books, DVDs, etc. New children's and adult sections Great programs like talks, poetry and music Decent computer section Smart, helpful librarians Chess Great energy I attended a hip hop clothing event with lots of great information from self-made millionaires, some from my neighborhood of Jamaica. read more

The first floor looks clean enough & I personally have been able to find what I needed when I needed it but if I had my choice, I'd just go to Manhattan's main library branch instead. I HATE the location of this place. It's a pain to get to from the subway, not to mention being off a subway line I despise more than life itself. Why can they not have music songbooks available at other branches or bother sending those to other branches in a timely fashion? The last time I went, I had to deal with a panhandler harassing me as I was waiting for the crosswalk light to change. It's a huge library & the service I got both in person and on the phone was friendly enough but trying to call the main number and get someone on the phone is ridiculous. I'm not traveling all the way to northern Queens from southern Queens on MY dime if you can't even tell me in a timely fashion if you have a book I'm looking for! They should have separate direct numbers for the library floor & the management floor so you're not sitting through an endless stream of automated prompts. I'd also like to know why in God's name this place has security while my neighborhood branch does not. I take significant issue with the management of this place considering it seems THEY get to have a security guard where they work but no one else should. Why are the residents of Jamaica more special than any other Queens residents? Why the special privilege of security when others don't have it? It doesn't tell me good things about this library system & I feel management should be reminded of who's paying for this branch along with their salaries. If you actually live near this branch & it's not a pain for you to get here, you might be okay with going here. The selection and service of the actual staff (not management) will make you happy. read more

In terms of library-ness its awesome. Huge! Extensive selection of books and all that good stuff. Not the most quiet of libraries but it gets the job done. In terms of everything else.. HELL NO! I can't come here. It's too much. The amount of hooglums (yes HooGlums! With a G) running around in here is atrocious (have to use SAT words when talking about libraries. It's only right). These little kids (14 or 15) followed me and my friend around. I look young but clearly I'm not 15. LEAVE ME ALONE! The line for the computers.. OUT OF THIS WORLD! It was almost to the door. CRAZY! The people at the service desk were friendly and helpful. They find the books for you and then put them in this little stand with your name on them. Even though there were plenty of people in here..being loud and ridiculous.. the book selection is awesome and the service is pretty fast. Please don't come in here trying to sit and be quiet and read. You won't be able to read a thing. You'll barely be able to hear yourself think. Also DON'T come in here looking for books on your own. Let the people at the desk help you. You'll be searching around for years. read more

I'm not sure when they library was renovated but it's so much better than it was when I used to come here as a teenager. It's bright and very colorful as opposed to how drab it used to be. There are quiet rooms, and kids rooms and plenty of spaces in the open floor for reading and/or working. There is also a good amount of staff around to assist. Also as this is the Central Library, the collection of books is the best in Queens. Another plus is it's close to a ton of public transportation and a very large metered parking lot. read more

As a Long Island native, I greatly underestimated Queens Public Library. This is the best library experience ever. Conveniently located in the heart of Jamaica, this spot is a gem! Competent staff, advanced kiosks to ensure accurate and speedy check outs, minus lines. A new and up to date Media collection. Modern designed and stylish facility. I love coming here and my daughter loves the Children's Discovery Center. read more

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I've always loved coming to the Central Library since I first moved to Queens back in 2000 and my love for this location as only grown ever since the renovation. They have a fantastic Children's Center that I'm looking forward to bring my toddler here pretty soon. They've also completely redone the Teen Room and it encompasses the whole right side that used to be the old children and teen rooms. I'm jealous thinking about it because I wish the room was like this when I was a teen. The media center is new as is the cyber center. I do miss the old museum room that used to be there but it's so much better now. I live close to the Ozone Park and Lefferts branches but I prefer to come here. It's a great place with lots of resources and plenty of people and staff. They even have a quiet room for those who need absolute silence while the cell phone room has been relaxed (seemingly). It's definitely worth spending an afternoon here. Tip: If you wish to use the computers, come early. The earlier the better. As it gets later in the day, it gets harder to acquire a computer. read more

Queens Public Library - Central - New cafe located at the front of library where the old store used to be. - Libraries Near Me - Jamaica, New York

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I have been coming here for the past year ever since they had made the updates. It is a beautiful library. They even have a quiet study area in the back which helped me a lot when I was studying for Finals. I love that they have extend their hours so I can drop by after work. Now since I download the app I do not need to search through the entire library for a book, I just request it and then when it is ready for pick up I go to the reserve section. Perfect. I visit this library at least once or twice a week since I am able to request graphic novels. read more

The absolute worst library on earth! The security guards are RUDE! The quiet room is in fact NOT quiet. There are limited resources. The bathroom is disgusting. It is absolutely too loud. You would think you were at a playground and not a library. I would never recommend that anyone come here unless you absolutely need a library until 9PM on the weekdays in southeast Queens. Terribleeeee! A two star rating is generous. read more

Sat in on an awesome Q&A with the author Hugh Wyatt on his book Pheobe's Fantasy! Always check out the different programs available here !

The library itself is great. Huge children's section. Even has several science exhibits that kids can interact with. Opens even on weekends which is a a great help to us working families. There is only 1 negative aspect to this library and that is its location. Parking is extremely limited and it doesn't feel like the safest place after sundown. read more

PROS: Very big library w/ multiple floors. There is an extensive selection of books and magazines. A lot of new material, which is quite rare. Internet access, dvd selection, an extremely helpful staff CONS: Impossible to come here to study or research due to cell phones going off every 2 minutes, live cell phone conversations or ghetto kids having loud conversations about nothing in general. I was once working on a film project and a religious group (of maybe 20 people) showed up and had a 1-hour discussion on various topics from HIV to crime in the community. This is in the study area. I wanted to cry, but opted to laugh and listen in on the discussion, while security made their rounds. SUMMARY: I grew up in an era where a library was a quiet place. If you spoke in a library, an elderly person would put you in check before the librarian got to you. This is a great library that should be a 5, however outside factors make it a dud. This library would've been much better in an area like Forest Hills or Kew Gardens. (its a misfit in the ghetto) There is still hope for the library. The large security staff needs to enforce rules on excessive talking. There needs to be a quiet area for people who are doing research or studying. Every time I come here, I feel like I'm coming to watch young ghetto kids mate... read more

This library is the BEST. We drive 30 minutes to go here for the children's section instead of 10 minutes right down the street to our local library. The children's librarian here is the best at keeping the kid's section stacked with new and awesome titles. read more

It needs to be cleaned!! Its kind of ghetto.. Yes, they should have urged people to turn of thier mobile phones.. but there were some people actually sleeping in there. The carpet was horrificly nasty and the uncomfortable ambient is what made me cut my studies there short. The books I found were really good, but thats not someplace you want to stay to read them.. They need an overhaul.. A severe cleaning crew with bleach and febreeze and some one to poke those mofos with hoods on thier head and legs up sleeping.. I honestly dont know if they were homeless or robbers but it didnt make me feel good or relaxed. read more

Vast. Looking over the bookshelves and ducking heads, you can look very far in the distance. I get that thousand mile stare again... It's the largest library I've seen to date - and surprisingly in excellent order. I made a friend while looking for the Ice-T biography, "The Ice Opinion: Who Gives a Fuck?" We couldn't find it upstairs but his little push cart among the hundreds of thousands of books seemed so insignificant, it seemed like a joke. Not only that, he was going through each book in the library to make sure they were in order. I should have let him have the Ice book. The accessible library is one big room. If it's not on the shelves, try the reference desk and they will look in the basement archive which probably has just as many books... I would love to see what that room looks like. read more

The Queens Central Library, the flagship branch of the Queens public library system, is a little known gem in Jamaica, Queens, just a few blocks from the F train subway stop at 179th & Hillside Ave. (It's also across the street from a bus hub, and just a few blocks from one of the LIRR stations.) (For this review to make any sense, you have to understand that the Queens public library system is separate from the rest of the NYC public library system. For most of the time I have lived in NYC, I've lived in Manhattan. However, I lived in Queens for about a year, so I've used both library systems. The Queen Central is equivalent to the Mid-Manhattan branch of the NYC Public Library.) The Queens Central collection is massive, both broad and deep. I can't count the number of times I have found books here that the NYC public library system didn't have at all (or used to have but lost). And in contrast to the NYC libraries, you can usually find all the books you need under a single roof at the Queens Central Library, rather than having to track books down at various branches scattered around the NYC library system. There is a huge foreign-language books section, with works in dozens of different languages. The library system's website uses a sophisticated fuzzy search algorithm that helps you expand your thinking when looking for books and other items (in contrast to the more traditional search function used by the NYC libraries). The library has also been employing multiple computerized checkout stations for a while, so you don't have to wait in a long line to check out your books and other items. The library's design and lighting lend an open, almost suburban welcoming feel to the space -- the opposite of the fluorescent prison feeling you get at, say, the Mid-Manhattan branch of the NYC Public Library. And I've never seen smelly homeless guys hanging out in the Queens Central Library (they are basically part of the furniture at the NYC Mid-Manhattan Library), although I did see a mildly-psychotic guy who was annoying people at the computers at Queens Central once. I believe you don't have to live in Queens to be able to use the library. Students and NY State residents can apply for library privileges. read more

Nice to visit what seems like a "normal-sized" library rather than a tiny neighborhood branch for once. Oddly, as the main library for a borough of 2.3 million people it is surprisingly modest in size and ambition. What gives? Shouldn't we have some 5-story grand edifice like any major city of that size (say Chicago?) has? That said, this is a great place. I made the trek mainly to visit the Archives, which turned out to be a relatively small room chock-full of the local historical documents I was seeking. I could spend weeks here if I didn't have a job. It's a shame they aren't open later. It would also be nice if they had scanners and not just a photocopier. On the whole, I'll be coming back regularly. read more

Giant library. I used to come here to do a lot of research before I became a Manhattan library person. When I came back to do some studying, I realize that it is still a research oriented library. This is not for just hedonism of reading books or viewing DVDs as most local community libraries are about. There are rows of subject matter with some little tiny reading desk posts scattered throughout. Studying here reminds me of studying back in my old college library, except, I don't recall myself going through a metal detector or being eyeballed by gruff security people. I opened my bag for inspection. Man, the world has changed. read more

This review is strictly for the CHILDREN'S section of this library. They always have great programs for the children on the weekends. For example, this past weekend they hosted a petting zoo for the children. The program lasted an hour and there was education, dancing, and petting involved. They even found a way to tie the program into their "Dig Into Reading" summer event. The facility is also VERY bright and interactive, the chairs are comfy and the staff are young and approachable. It's really unlike any library I ever had as a kid. The atmosphere makes children (and myself) want to be here and read or get work done--even in the summertime! Highly recommend this library to anyone with tots, children and teens! =] read more

- Very helpful staff! The librarians & costumer service are wonderful! The size of the library and the variety of books is outstanding. read more

Queens Public Library - Central - Libraries Near Me - Jamaica, New York

What can I say? I am a NERD to the core...and I am not afraid to admit it. I love this library, they have everything! In fact, the Queens library system is one of the best library systems I have encountered ( I have lived in the WDC and Boston areas). So much to read, so little time :) I am forever loyal to books, they make me happy! read more

I saw this library built in the '60s and remember its predecessor. In many ways it is a fine community service. The library has been remodeled to make it more of a community center and a computer center. Their strong point is as their website says, "Free Programs for Kids, Teens, Adults, Job Seekers, and More." Their weak point is a smaller selection of books on the shelves than in days gone by. There is a Quiet Room, but the rest of the library is more of a social center with people loudly talking on cell phones or sleeping in chairs. A reference librarian bluntly told me, "this is not a real library." Times change and the Central Queens Library has changed as well. read more

The main branch for the Queens Library system. They have a huge collection of books, research materials, a cyber center with a bunch of computers and printers, and lots of seating if you want to sit and read. They recently renovated it so it's bright and colorful and very spacious. I always like going to the library and just roaming the stacks, looking at books. The location is near a bunch of transportation (buses, trains). Parking can be hit or miss with the meters and since the area is fairly crowded. My onlyyyyyy complaint with this library is that funky smell. It's a mixture of b.o, homelessness, and funk. Even with the renovations it's still there. Despite that I still like coming here when I can. Don't let it stop you just put on a bunch of cologne or perfume on your way in. You'll thank me later. read more

I visited yesterday afternoon to borrow a few books. I had the opportunity to try the wonderful cafe with my son for lunch. We ordered a sandwich, green salad, small macaroni salad, hot tea and water. I must compliment the chef and staff! The food was terrific! Everything we ate was good. The macaroni salad was very good, great flavor with finely chopped onions and peppers for great texture and taste. We are looking forward to going back! Thank you library cafe staff for a great meal! read more

I love the library. Anyone who knows me, knows I love books. I come to this library often to get books to read for my train ride to & from work. I have a long ride. This library always has many, many books on the specific genre that I like to read. They have been renovating for quite some time & it seems like they're almost done. They have a quiet room, a media center, children's area, copy machines, etc, helpful staff & the self check out & is quick & easy. They're also open really late on a few days of the week and they're open 7 days a week. You can also come here to get that new NYC ID. But the line is usually very long for that service. read more

The noise level in the Central Library is absolutely ridiculous. This is not a library anymore there's no space for peaceful reading or studying. It's more like a recreation center. You can still hear noise in the "quiet rooms." And the adult quiet room smells absolutely terrible! There is limited table seating and limited outlets for plugging in laptops. People are having loud conversations everywhere some on their phones. The staff also carry on with loud conversations. I'm so annoyed and disappointed that I won't be able to use this public library as a quiet place for study. read more

I camped out here while I was job searching and had no internet. Thank God for their quiet room! I got so much done! If you don't have a computer, you can sign up to use one of theirs, but I noticed a lot of people waiting and I think there's a time limit. The staff was extremely helpful in signing me up for a card and it looked like they offer a lot of classes. I was really pleased with my experience. read more

Quiet room. Self-explanatory, yes? And it was, generally. Quiet, I mean. Few folks answering ringing phones for brief conversations. The door closes kinda heavy as people enter and leave. Both manageable. But here's where things get peculiar. I was there on a Thursday, late afternoon into early evening, refreshing myself on Spanish verbs for a class I'm taking. Spanish verbs. There are a lot of them. Every form has it's own funky rules. I was trying to remember all this. Focusing. They were having free movie night, showing Collateral Beauty. Let me summarize the movie for you: Retreating from life after a tragedy, a man questions the universe by writing to Love, Time and Death. Receiving unexpected answers, he begins to see how these things interlock and how even loss can reveal moments of meaning and beauty. Guess how I know this? Wrong. Not just because I read it off IMDB. But because there was a librarian who read this exact description over the LOUD SPEAKER at least five times, broadcasting this information throughout the library INCLUDING THE QUIET ROOM! Oh, Black Jeezus, I wanted to choke her. No joke, read it uno, dos, tres, quatro, CINCO times to be heard in every crevice of a place intended for study and concentration. It's bad enough that a library actually needs to set aside a "quiet room" in the first place. (Isn't the whole library supposed to be one giant quiet room?) But to blast announcements not just once, but multiple times within a space reserved for quiet is wholly irrational and completely maddening. I finally gave up after the fifth announcement. So, this is mos def not a place to come if you need to hunker down in silence. Besides the ungodly announcements people are in conversation all over the library. Some of them are students in study groups (York College is very close). Many of them are just neighborhood folks hanging out, using the library as a gathering space. It really is more of a community resource with job search assistance, immigration help and free computers and IDNYC cards. There's also a separate teen room, with their own conference rooms and activities. All of this is great for the community and I'm glad it's there for people. Now they just need to build an actual for real for real library. This is not it! read more

Very nice space. Visited here from Brooklyn due to children's program for my son. Looks very clean and bathroom accessible to users. Wasn't happy with parents chatting way to loud during the kids learning programs, but I'm not a hall monitor. You would think common sense would kick in. All in all it's a nice place. Parking is a bummer with mostly metered parking and the spots that aren't metered have do not park signs by them and police officer vehicles occupying the space. read more