I had a great experience at this library. The staff were very helpful, friendly, and caring. I was able to find everything I needed for my school research. I really appreciate their wonderful service! read more

I'm not sure how you spell his name Erin Baptise he was very rude to my sister and her friends using profanity and pushing On them regardless as a adult working at a library there should be proper protocol to not use profanity in children or your hands these children are in middle school totally unacceptable read more

I think libraries don't get enough credit, and the San Leandro Library is definitely a good example of that!!! My daughter has been going here for what seems like forever. Through middle school, high school and even college. She's an avid reader so she loves this place!! She's also the reason I've been here multiple times, and yes, I do have a library card. Getting a library card is quick, easy, and free. Just fill out your info on the computers they have set up and they will give you a card. This place is large and spacious, plenty of places to sit and read, tables to work or study, and computers are available for use also. There is gift shop and cafe here along with conference rooms and very clean restrooms. There is also a second story here, like I said, very spacious!! So don't sleep on the San Leandro Public Library, if you do get a chance to go here, you will be pleasantly surprised!! read more

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I honestly love this library. I come here to do get some work done with friends all the time. I am very appreciative of the space and the books!! I love being surrounded by books, and this library def had a great selection of everything. I was able to find a lot of books easily through their online search or even just in person (you just need to know how they organize it by author etc etc). Also, their parking lot is great. It has a lot of spaces. I would definitely recommend this library if you're wanting to take your family here or if you're just looking for a quiet place to work! read more

This review is mainly for the free comedy night event held at San Leandro Library. Note I didn't have a chance to go inside the library. First off, pretty cool that a local library has free comedy nights, even though it was outdoors on an especially hot day of the year. It was open seating with people opting to sit on lawn chairs they had brought, picnic blankets, or just plain grass. I think this was their second comedy night, and for the most part it was pretty well organized. There were a couple food trucks available next to the stage, so easy to grab a bite to eat if you were feeling hungry. There were maybe 8 comedy sets total, with comedians coming in from as far as New York and Vegas. Pretty good diversity of people, both on stage and in the audience. Some sets were funnier than others, and the crowd wasn't super gregarious, though that may have had more to do with the scorching sun bearing down on everyone's backs. The Yay Area-themed jokes were a nice touch, especially if you grew up here and get all the references to BART, local politicians, and subtle differences between Hayward, San Leandro, and Castro Valley. Many of the comedians were originally from the Bay as well. I enjoyed attending this event, although it was a little hard to hear everything very clearly from the back. Parking took some time too. I think if I were to come back to this event, I would arrive 30-45 minutes early (the show started at 5, though really things kicked off around 5:05/5:06) to get a better spot (in the shade) and check out the library, which looked really nice (from the outside). Thanks to the organizers and comics for making this a fun night! read more

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Wandering in a space with books is really one of the best ways to get explore and get lost in ideas and imagination. Whether it's a bookstore or library, I'm a sucker. This branch of the San Leandro public library is pretty bonkers-nice! Conveniently located in old town San Leandro, it's a perfect place to spend a rainy day. From the art to random quotations, I love the open spaces and little touches all around the library. There are lots of things to explore here and it serves as a great place to escape and study/work. One intriguing thing I noticed was that the library had these cool backpacks in the kids' section--turns out they are part of a funded program for mental health by the IMLS (Institute of Museum and Library Services) through an LSTA (Library Services and Technology Act) grant administered by the California State Librarian. I'm a big advocate of stuff like this (besides it being related to my work in healthcare). I noticed "kits" children could check out; I posted a picture of one, a Be Brave - Bravery Kit containing a scarf and six books to inspire bravery. How awesome! read more

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I haven't been here in a number of years. When my son was younger I'd take him often to read and do other educational things. We'd visit the discounted bookstore they have as well. Today's purpose was to print a few things in a hurry. No time to go hunting around for the right ink cartridge. But after today I intend to incorporate this in my schedule. I even planned a few trips through the Discover & Go pass section. The staff are polite, professional and helpful. The library is well lit and clean. read more

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A beautiful large library with librarians who are extremely knowledgeable and helpful! I take my grandkids there on a regular basis.

My sons got their first library card at the San Leandro Main Library during COVID-19. The library maintains appropriate safety protocols to ensure cleanliness and safety. The kids section is great and offers a puppet area, puzzles, and other activities on the wall. There are also computers available for kids to play educational games. My oldest son enjoys socializing with other kids while taking turns playing on the computer, and my youngest son loves playing with the puppets. The library also has an onsite cafe that serves affordable drinks and pastries. I have yet to have the chance to try them as we usually visit later in the day after school gets out, but I hope to soon. A discounted bookstore is available that offers books ranging from $2+ each. In addition to visiting the library, we've started attending their holiday events and storytime. There's a costume exchange during Halloween where you can bring an old costume and swap it for another. It's a great idea since costumes are often used only once a year. The most recent event we attended was the Valentine's Day social, which was a lucky coincidence. There were multiple art stations where kids could make Valentine's Day cards, posters, and more. At the end, the kids received a Valentine's Day sugar cookie. We absolutely love this library! read more

San Leandro Library - Main Library - Libraries Near Me - San Leandro, California

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This library is beautiful and comfortable. There is even a coffee shop in front. However, you can't take coffee and food items into the library part. read more

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Best library I've been to nationwide. Super proud to call it my home library. They really support the local community with tons of cool, free events for all ages and abilities, a weekly farmers market in their parking lot, tons to borrow (books, dvds, laptops, drill set, baking set, camping gear, mental health resources, postpartum kits, it's amazing what you'll find here!) They have wonderful book displays constantly changing, throughout the entire library. They have a theatre for plays, movies, stand up comedy, political debates, and more! Security, cafe, books and dvds for sale, clean bathrooms, meeting rooms for rent, lots of community meetings/events hosted by others at the library. Be sure to catch Comedy in the Plaza each year and Brian Copeland's plays! read more

San Leandro Library - Main Library - Oct 1, 2024 hours. - Libraries Near Me - San Leandro, California

Quality/Quantity - I watched you remodel this location back in 1997 and reopen in 2000, thank you. A beautiful library to this day. Today they also hosted the Art Fest 2022, the real reason we stopped by. See my pictures and Yelp for Art Fest 2022. Atmosphere - Huge location, especially after the 2000 remodel. Open 5 days a week from 10am to 8pm, closed on Fridays and Sundays. Why those 2 days, I do not know??? Plenty of free timed public parking, 2-3 hours. Service - Good. Price - Free. Owner Comment - Congrats on your success since 1906 and your beautiful remodel since 2000. read more

Wow, I haven't frequented a real library in like decades! I consider myself a bookworm, only these days I tend to use Amazon Kindle for all my reading needs. From a studious kid, undergrad, and even as a grad student, libraries were among my favorite places. Sadly, libraries seem to be slowly going away. Even our corporate libraries are downsizing and moving online these days. The San Leandro Library is gorgeous and superb in terms of amenities. I'd much rather hang out here for a few hours reading books instead of staring at my phone in some Starbucks. Here's why: 1. Plenty of places to sit with outlets and computers everywhere 2. Free and fast wifi 3. A small cafe and restrooms outside the main entrance 4. Plenty of parking 5. Two floors of lots of books in excellent condition, comics and graphic novels, movies, etc. 6. A few art pieces scattered throughout the library to give a slight museum feel. 7. Excellent lighting inside 8. No food and drink inside the library, but they're cool with bottled water read more

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3.5 stars for the cleanliness, well lit, organized and if you just want to hang out with your tablet or something. 2 stars because it's always noisy and people is always talking out loud like they don't know how to whisper, even the staff. It doesn't help that there's an echo too. They are always making announcements on the intercom too which could get really distracting. For example: when they were having a watch party for a game they'll announce it in the main library every 15-30 min. Makes you wonder if this place should be called a library with so many distractions. Even the parking lot is more quiet than the inside. Coming after 2 or 3pm when kids get off school from the jr. high nearby is prob the worst. They just roam around freely and chasing each other and talking like they're still outside and no one says anything. If you're looking for a place to study or to get some work done, this prob isn't the best place. read more

Love this place. We go there every Sunday morning. Love the flexible hours and the book selection.

I really need SLL Main Library to do a better job with monitoring the ENTIRE library for noise control, teens running around and suggesting to parents with small children to use one of the quiet rooms. Many of us like myself come here to do our homework but yet were interrupted with so much noise and personal telephone chatter that it's hard to concentrate. SLL please do better. read more

I have been coming to this library since high school. Now, I make weekly trips to study for my RICA test. Before this, I would stop by after school to grade papers, write IEPs and education evaluation reports. Before that, I spent countless hours studying for the CBEST and CSET examinations. This place provides a quiet, safe environment for me to take care of my business. It's such a good work environment that I spend 5-7 hours here at a time (they have a bathroom downstairs just in case you need to go). In the summer, San Leandro residents can participate in their reading programs. They have one for kids, teens and adults. At the end, you usually get some type of party. It's great for people who like to read and win prizes! read more

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If you're a cardholder you get access to Libby! This was super convenient and progressive to check out titles through the Kindle. In-person you'll find good recommendations and fresh titles. If you find yourself in the area, come take a break and get lost in the pages. read more

This is a huge library and it has it all. Before you even enter there is cafe, bookstore and a police officer stationed right at the main entrance. There are two levels with every type of book, dvd and magazine you can imagine. They have sections cornered off for Teens and Children with books and lounges that are designed just for them. There is plenty of very comfortable seating, whether you're looking to relax and read in an oversized chair, sofa or at a traditional study table. My favorite spot is upstairs. It seems to be the quietest since this is where most of the adult books are. I prefer to get lost in studying or a good book amongst the stacks. Downstairs can tend to get a tad noisy between the entrance, the Teen (Young Adult) section, the Children's section and the checkout counter. If you're looking for peace and quiet, upstairs is your best bet. There are also a plethora of computers available for use both upstairs and down. But only two printing stations. One on the first floor and one hidden upstairs next to the magazines. You'll also find a ton of outlets if you need to plug in your laptop or charge your device. They do have a large parking lot right out front, but parking is limited to two hours, although I'm not sure how strictly this is enforced. Also keep an eye out, while the library is fantastic and an escape, this is still downtown San Leandro and there are some sketchy people. I, myself, have encountered a few. I'd be remised if I didn't also mention all of the activities they have going on. Everything from author talks to flower shows to entertainment. Check their website to details. All in all, a pretty great place to spend a few hours getting lost in a good book. read more

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Okay l love to go here and tomorrow is a festival . Hope it won't be too crowded. Big library, staff are always helpful There is a cafe in front of library and I think there is a police substation in front too. Any way it seems very nice and safe too read more

I was looking for a place to study and decided to visit San Leandro Library Community Center. There is a large parking lot thats adjacent to the library. Note, parking is only 2 hours. This library is pretty big with a second floor. Before entering the library, there is a gift shop and cafe on the right side of the entrance area. If you're in need of a snack or drink. When I walked in to the library, there was a friendly staff that greeted visitors and was ready to answer your questions if needed. On the second floor, there is a common area that designated for studying. There are several signages that it's designated as a quiet area. Also on the second floor along the windows, there are tables for a more private and quiet area. Overall, visitors were respectful of the rule with minimal noise. I would go back to this library to study and even some reading. read more

San Leandro Library - Main Library - At the top of the stairwell before you enter the second floor, there is a sign for visitors to read and hopefully follow. - Libraries Near Me - San Leandro, California

I am a voracious reader averaging about a book a week if not more so the library is exactly what I need as I would be buried in books at home if I bought every book I read. Plus what is the fun of rereading a mystery when you already know whodunit! This library has 2 floors. The first floor has new books, CDs, DVDs, VHS, the monthly category (e.g. summer travel, Christmas, etc..), non-fiction, and children section. The upper floor has fiction, mystery, paperbacks, magazines, etc. and the quiet area. When school is in session, it can get pretty packed at the tables but when school is out, it is quite empty except for checking out. I love how they have programs for children, teens, and adults and is one of the only libraries that have an Adult Summer Reading Program which I sign up for every year. Sometimes I need a little encouragement to reach my 50+ books a year. You submit in up to 2 cards per week for $25 GC raffle and in August, they have a dinner for those who have submitted at least 2 cards during the program period (about 10 weeks). Programs like this allows you to meet others in your community you might not otherwise meet. San Leandro is also lucky enough to receive the Big Read grant, not once, not twice, but I believe 4 years in a row now. read more

Truly our home away from home. My daughter come here for weekly storytime when we can. We usually hit up the biannual book sales so I can restock my classroom library. It's a great place to find books, music, and movies. They also do fun, free community events. We've been visiting weekly as we both participate in the Summer Reading Program. Today, my daughter finished the program for the first time and was rewarded with a new tiara, wand, and stamp pad. Then we get the early anticpated Summer Reading Finisher packet. Where else are you going to get FREE passes to Fairyland, the Chabot Space and Science Center, Pump It up, and other great coupons simply for encouraging your little one to discuss books with other kids? read more

Very nice big library. They have a used book store, cafe and a lot of summer activities for kids. It is spacious and nice magazine selection. read more

Yesterday we attended the free Lunar New Year Celebration! This free FOUR hour event featured Lion Dancers, martial arts, Chinese Opera, Vietnamese dancers, Chinese dancers, Chinese orchestra, St Mary's Girls Drum and Bell Corps, Dan Chan the Magic Man and food from a local restaurant at reasonable prices. The SLL set up the event in their main meeting room which is huge. The horseshoe seating arrangement easily accommodated 150 (?) or so guests. This is easily one of the best organized community events I have been to. There must have been two dozen groups each with 6-12 different songs on various CD's--all flawlessly played on time in correct order. The emcee, whose name I didn't catch introduced and thanked each group with the perfect amount of enthusiasm and graciousness. She also introduced all the community dignitaries (mayor, Vice-Mayor, council people and school board members)/ There was also a crafts room where kids and adults could make some really spectacular crafts! We have attended the Native American Storytelling Festivals in the Fall. Fantastic. The San Leandro Library is well designed with a modern but people-friendly design. There is a separate room for Internet users. They also have a separate room for the Friends of the Library book sales. an auditorium, gift store and coffee shop. There were tons of people going in and out of the library. A well used and loved place. read more

When I was a teenager, this was the library I told my parents I was going to, to study. Of course, I only stopped in for a few minutes before I went to a local drive-in for a soda and flirt time. The building seems to be larger than I remember I guess I only ran in and out so I wasn't telling too much of a story. This is an impressive library. It is large two story building with lots of books, There is a cafe and gift shop. There is also a Friends of the San Leandro Library bookstore. I've attended several all-day seminars in the library theater and found it a very comfortable venue to spend a long 6 to 8 hour day at. read more

This is one of my favorite libraries. Growing up, the library was always one of my sanctuaries and safe havens from all the chaos that life could bring. I could find a book in this library and easily get lost in it - captivated by the words and depth that as a child I could barely comprehend. If you have children and live in the San Leandro area, I should also note that the kid's section at the San Leandro library is sequestered in a section all its own on the first floor. I really feel that this adds to the charm and the usefulness of this library because when I was kid and as I see little kiddos entering that area, it was always amazing what you could find. Sit, grab a book and turn the pages ceaselessly. Note, the library also hosts events for kids as well. Be sure to find out when those are, what they're about, and if they're hosted at the Main Library or at one of the other San Leandro branches. The employees and volunteers are always so kind and helpful. When I revisited the library after being away for university for four years and forgot the "lay of the land" they helped me find my books, place any on hold, and even helped me renew my library card with ease. There's also a cafe on the first floor, free wifi, and a little shop where they sell some books for the cheap! Hehe. Also, if you want to learn more about San Leandro's history, I think there's a room on it I always seem to pass by on the second floor. Overall, I really love this library. It's a great place to find your next great read or to find one and sit and just escape. It's also a good place to get work done or prep for any big tests coming up!!! A NOTE ON RENEWING YOUR LIBRARY CARD. - This has to be done every three years and you need to bring your ID and proof of your residency (as a San Leandro resident). This can be a bill statement with your name on it OR sometimes...the librarian let me do this so I'm assuming it's okay...if you have a credit card statement or bill or what have you on your phone you can show them that. & Walllaaaaa - your card has been renewed. - Also, if you're under 18 - please have your parent/guardian WITH you OR if you're a student, I believe you could show your school ID (i.e. SLHS or AHS IDs). A NOTE ON LOSING YOUR LIBRARY CARD. - As much as we may try to keep track of all the cards in our wallets, sometimes things can get lost. I personally have not lost my library card (fingers crossed it doesn't happen), but my friend recently did and got a replacement for $3. ALSO FYI. - I like to check out the catalog online before I come in, especially when I have an idea of what books I want. This helps me when I'm in a time crunch or when I want to make sure that I can get the book/s I truly desire. - When you're looking online, you can also put books on hold online and what I found out is that you can have it sent to any of the branches for pick-up. So for example, if you live closer to Manor Branch you can have your books that are on hold for you sent there. Then they'll call you or you can check your account online to see if it's ready to be picked up! - On that note, you can return your books to any of the branches or to the main library. Woo, A+ for convenience if you can't make it all the way to Downtown San Leandro. - Overdue books are charged at 40cents a day. Happy reading, everyone! read more

Always a great selection of books, magazines, news papers, DVD and even VHS! My two favorites are the books and DVD's. There are always a number of events you can attend such as free movies or small festivals, check the local listing. Generally quiet and a great place to study. read more

Making me love living in San Leandro more and more every time I find another gem in the city. The library is a place of imagination, knowledge and fun. At this library, it's not that typical public, with the urine stained smells, yet a polished two story structure with enough light, space and staff to facilitate the branch to run smoothly. I've never had any problems at this location and it's always quiet, especially on the second floor. When I come home on weekends, I usually hit up the SLML early Saturday morning right when it opens at10am because a lot of people tend to come here and all the tables fill up. The placement of the tables are well arranged, many next to the huge glass window panes for the natural lights to flow it. It's not completely surrounding by four blank and solid walls and the washout florescent lights one is accustomed to. The wifi is never spotty here and you can access all over the library, no log in required, just a simple click to accept. The chairs are comfortable and all the wall sockets work perfectly. Besides coming to study, they have a great range of resources to choose from in their library, with an individual section for children, a computer room for class and free use, as well as comfortable sitting areas for those who just want to sink right into that book. They've been upgrading their system and there's two super fancy new machines to check out or return your library books. Staff is friendly and helpful. There's no study rooms, but they have huge conference rooms that can be rented out and are pretty spacious. I've had a couple of meetings in there. Outside is a small cafe with seating and a little bookstore to purchase books from. The library PD office is also inside the building, so fear not anything! Parking is ample both in the lot and on either sides of the building. They are opened at decent times and close not too early. We need more public institutions such as libraries modeled after this one. It's quaint and you're able to get work done. Great for meeting up with friends, grabbing a book, hosting a meeting or just trying to get yourself focused. read more

This is the library nearest to my house, and I'll come here sometimes to get away from my house, but still have access to free internet. Despite funding issues with many libraries in the Bay Area, this one still keeps decent hours. There are plenty of tables to sit and spread out all your reading materials. And the parking lot is big enough to hold everyone. My only wish is that all of the tables had power outlets for electronics. Come on, San Leandro! Everyone and their mom brings their laptop to the library now! read more

Great place for reading and doing homework. On Estudillo and walking distance to shopping center and restaurants. Beware of the parking though!!! They are hard core at giving tickets in and out or around that whole area. Make sure if you are in 2 or 3 hr parking and watch for the parking police that chalk tires and give out tickets!! They have a small cafe with drinks and some instant or frozen food that get heated in the microwave. They have lots of yummy cookies for a dollar and various pastries and bread. They have soup of the day and coffee. read more

San Leandro Library - Main Library - They have some sodas and green tea and soup of the day all inside tve library. - Libraries Near Me - San Leandro, California

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This library is lovely. I remember when my mom and I would try to get a card some sneaky way because this place is open on Sunday! I mean, it makes sense, right!? Hard working people who are busy during the week need that weekend library time! This place provides it. Even before the remodel years ago, this was the place to be. I am a recent new resident to San Leandro and becoming a library member was one of the first things I did. There's a little cafe in front, community activities, a history of the city display, and plenty of support. Right in downtown San Leandro, everything you would ever need is walking distance, so you can take a break from your walk to grab a bite, and quickly return. read more

San Leandro Library - Main Library - I have to catch up - Libraries Near Me - San Leandro, California

I've been to a couple of other libraries in my life, and have used many different school libraries, but nothing compares to the San Leandro Main. The selection of books is outstanding, and frankly, mind boggling. As I'm writing this, I honestly don't even know where to begin. Upon entering there is a full snack bar/gift shop that I always make a stop at for a quick snack every visit, especially because the food and snacks are surprisingly very good, as well as very cheap. There are many conference rooms that are utilized for various events, both public and private, as well as the used book store. That place is an incredible bargain, with different genres of gently used, soft and hard cover books for sale at a fraction of the cost they were new. The library itself is massive, two stories, and very well organized. I spent many hours here in high school (and currently, some in college) finding critical books and research material that I couldn't find in other places I searched. There's also a large selection of music and movies to check out, with separate libraries for children and another for teens. Government documents and public records have their own large section, as well as volumes of research books that are viewable but not available to check out. There is a computer lab available if you need to type something out and print, as well as an ample amount of computers to search the internet, with an hour time limit. I've used the wifi here and it's decent, faster than I expected. A very awesome addition to this library is the San Leandro Room, featuring historical books, documents, artifacts, and photos from the founding of San Leandro to the present, as well as history from neighboring cities like Oakland. Unfortunately, due to city cuts, the room is only open on particular days, so viewing is limited. I've only gone in once or twice, when I've been lucky and it's been open. The staff here is somewhat hit or miss; I've never had any issues with anyone working here, but some people can be a bit friendlier than others. I actually did ten hours of community service here in the Children's Library in high school and enjoyed being able to give something back to children who come here to read and educate themselves. There is a summer reading program for kids here as well. You do have to be a citizen of San Leandro to join for free, but I don't see how that's a problem; homeowners' tax money is largely what's keeping this place open year after year, so why wouldn't we get precedent? The San Leandro Main isn't the only library with this requirement, and I believe you can join for a fee if you're a non-resident. The lines are always really short at checkout, and if you prefer, there are self checkout kiosks available. Generally for most books you have two weeks before you have to return them, CD's and movies for three days, and shorter times for new releases in both books and media. read more

Love this library! They always have shows and free programs to get involved in. From book clubs to teen cartoon clubs to story time there is always something. I especially love the children's library. In a time where technology and tablets are taking over, it's nice when your child actually looks forward to going to the library. The shows that the library present are diverse in culture, so we are able to learn about our own as well as others. We also participate in the summer reading program, with prizes and a carnival that make it well worth it! There is an adult reading program as well with prizes. The librarians, especially the children's ones, are very knowledgeable and patient. Should you need any help they will either show you the way or walk you through how to use the library equipment to find it. There are computers throughout the library, including the children's area. There is also a self check-out option if you do not want to wait, though sometimes this does not work for us. A history room is located upstairs and full of San Leandro history. Upstairs is also full of study tables; my favorite ones are located next to the windows and overlook the trees. These areas fill up fast though. The place is also huge! There are a few conference rooms, a theater, and a larger room with a stage where they do the presentations. Parking lot is big but fills up when there are special events so arrive early. There are also apps available where you can check out magazines and book from your mobile device, very convenient when you can't make it to the library. Oh and free Wi-Fi! read more

organized shelves plenty of seats for kids and adults childrens section has different language sections age appropriate toys for kids helpful librarians read more

I started coming here this week. It a pretty clean library and I always find a table to study at. I don't like that they don't have that many engineering books. The biggest at and I mean the biggest thing wrong with this library is the damn high school students who loiter in front of the library and the few that come inside. This kids parents need to take better care of these kids. They are trouble makers who are most likely going to end up in Jain. The problem is I'm trying study and these damn kids inside the library yelling loud and using foul language in every sentence. The library employees need to do their job and get rid of all these high school kids. It's not a place to hang out!!!!! I'm updating my review and I added another star because they finally called the cops on those stupid low life trouble makers that hang out in front of the library. read more

I am a book, music and film nerd so of course I'm going to like a library. I can get all of these said items for free! This library is no exception. I have a few friends that have worked here or currently work here. This branch also has a cafe attached to it. I could spend hours here...if only I were local and could get a card for free. This library is still fun to visit. Who doesn't love free information? read more

They have the BEST summer reading program! My kids love engaging with the teen volunteers and telling them all about their books. The prizes are great: zoo passes, museum admissions, little books. I just love coming here for the programs and community! It's always clean and the little café is just a gem! It's a well- resourced library and we appreciate being able to take advantage of it. read more

We love to come here for story-time. The library is very clean. They always post lots if useful information and host a bunch of great activities for kids. There is always new book to enjoy. yay!!! read more

When I pulled into the parking lot, and saw this magnificent building for the first time, my reaction was an enthusiastic and ecstatic, "OH MY GOD! IT'S BEAUTIFUL!" From the outside, the Main Branch looks like bookworm heaven... The grounds are well-manicured and the building itself is very pretty. When I walked into the library itself, and saw its well-lit and spotlessly clean interior, I couldn't help but breathe a little sigh of joy. The Main Branch of the San Leandro library houses thousands of books, in a beautiful, clean, well-lit space that is welcoming to those who enter. There are plenty of places to sit and read there, and the fact that you can use the self-checkout makes borrowing books outrageously convenient. The only thing this library is lacking is a greater selection of paperbacks... but I'm willing to forgive them, since they also allow you to renew online... So awesome! read more