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    San Leandro Library - Main Library

    4.3 (134 reviews)
    Closed 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

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    Shirley M.

    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!

    front entrance
    David D.

    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!

    Mia S.

    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.

    Sandy L.

    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!

    Angela G.

    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.

    Oct 1, 2024 hours.
    Kiera R.

    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!

    Outside
    Daniel C.

    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

    Waverly from Joy Luck Club.  Library had a meet and greet
    Anna L.

    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!

    Entrance to library. Bookstore to the left and Cafe to the right.
    Emma R.

    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.

    At the top of the stairwell before you enter the second floor, there is a sign for visitors to read and hopefully follow.

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    1 year ago

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    4 months ago

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

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

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    We also participate in the summer reading program, with prizes and a carnival that make it well worth it!

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    San Leandro Public Library

    San Leandro Public Library

    3.9(46 reviews)
    2.4 mi

    I most definitely recommend the library to everyone! There's so many perks, events and learning…read moreopportunities + the Discover & Go perks (Google it or ask your librarian!). Get yourself a library card to check out books, magazines, DVDs & I'm not sure exactly of what else. Some libraries offer check out of tools (if not the Manor branch, the Main library does! ie. stuff for camping trips). You can also rent out private study rooms for a certain amount of time. You can use their computers (forgot how long the time goes up to) & I also love that they allow free computer printing up to 20 pages. Make sure to keep track of your return date for items checked out. They have self check out machines- super easy, and have the clerks available to help you out if need be. Enjoy!

    I appreciate the hours; came in on a Friday when the main library(which I love) was closed :-( This…read morelibrary is open Monday through Friday and closes on the weekend. Study tables and chairs line the windows and there are also comfy looking chairs set up for alternate study positions. Children library is toward the back and there are also a couple of tables and computers back there. I like that study rooms can be reserved as well. As far as noise ummmm...it's loud in here. Not the occasional door opening or chair scraping on the floor. There's a constant orchestra of noise which may be ok for some but as for me, I prefer library silence to study. I understand that this library is one big shared space for adults and kids and actually didn't mind noise from the kids. It was all the other distractions, including another patron that was FaceTiming on speaker. Really sis? I'll come if I have no other choice but if you need a quiet space to study I would not recommend, or maybe bring noise cancelling headphones. Will give a 4 because I want to support local libraries.

    Photos
    San Leandro Public Library
    San Leandro Public Library
    San Leandro Public Library

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    Hayward Public Library - Teen reading center with booths and tables - 7/2025

    Hayward Public Library

    4.3(52 reviews)
    5.4 mi

    Great place to study!…read more There are 3 floors but I get my steps in by walking up to the 3rd floor to sit down at one of the tables to get work done. I like this area because it is actually quiet and there are outlets right on the table. The wi fi is easy to access and is not slow. There are available study rooms to reserve. I would not suggest reserving one if you are looking for a quiet space (in case it does get loud in the main area) because the walls are thin and you can hear others speaking in the rooms next to you. I'd say that it is good to reserve for a group study session or if you need a whiteboard with the necessary dry erase markers. The location is really good because it's within walking distance to coffee shops and restaurants in case you need to grab a coffee before starting to study or need to take a break and get something to eat. There is plenty of parking in the parking garage!

    Such a beautiful library! I can't believe that this is my own hometown and I had only gotten to…read morecheck out the library recently. After spending some time in downtown, my friend and I wanted to stop by the library to check out the new Zocalo pocket cafe (we're big fans of the San Leandro location). Unfortunately we got there when it was closed, but that gave us a reason to explore the library itself! It's so spacious with 3 levels of books, work rooms, and more. Libraries truly are such a wonderful resources. Along with the books to borrow, Hayward library also has a bookshop, a makers studio, a teen center, a community resource center, a seed library, a library of things, and much much more. There's so many places to sit - whether you're wanting to work with a large group or just need a computer space for yourself. The staff here was super helpful when we asked for directions on where to find things and when we asked about how the makers studio worked. Did you know you can reserve time in their makers studio to use machines like a sewing machine, a cricut, a large document printer, and even a laser cutter? Now you know. Anyways, now I know all the great resources here and I'm excited to come by whenever I want to work from somewhere else for a bit. Big plus that the parking garage is so spacious so you'll never have to struggle with parking while visiting.

    Photos
    Hayward Public Library - Artist in the making?

    Artist in the making?

    Hayward Public Library - Beautiful drawing, son!

    Beautiful drawing, son!

    Hayward Public Library - AI discussion

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    AI discussion

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

    Alameda Free Library

    4.3(138 reviews)
    5.6 mi

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

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

    Photos
    Alameda Free Library - Poetry display!

    Poetry display!

    Alameda Free Library - Super cute Totoro shadow box

    Super cute Totoro shadow box

    Alameda Free Library

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    Brookfield Branch Library - 10.31.2024 Happy Halloween at senior building fish fry!

    Brookfield Branch Library

    3.3(9 reviews)
    2.0 miEast Oakland

    The librian doesnt realize this is a library. She shouting about someone isnt schedule. The male…read morelibrian is trying to soeak in a quite tone. She is way to LOUD! geez just call someone to come in please. My grandmother was a librarian and West Oakland library was peaceful. Thanks

    This library is small but I love it! I take my son here often. I recently volunteered to help…read morechildren with reading and really enjoyed the children. The library is very small and there are not many tables. Sometimes, the school age children come in and are loud but I've found if I whisper to them that this is a library, and they should be quiet, they are respectful enough to quiet down. The children are rarely in the library with parents, so as a mother myself, I don't mind teaching children manners in a loving way. The librarians Cynthia and Alfred are EXCELLENT! Cynthia was very thorough when she set me up with my 1st library card here about a year ago. She walked me through all the benefits the card had to offer and patiently answered all of my questions. She is always very sweet and eager to help when I ask for assitance. Alfred is enthusiastic about helping children to learn. He set me up to tutor young hispanic children, in need of english and reading help. He is Chinese American but spoke Spanish and English fluently. He acted as a liason between myself and spanish speaking parents so their children could get the help they needed for free! Alfred also helped me to find medical journals online so that I could do some personal research and he often calls or emails me when there are special activities going on at the library. I am so happy with this small library. Initially, I thought it was too tiny, but its nice to walk in and feel like "CHEERS" (everybody knows your name). If you need to study, go in the daytime when kids are at school or I'd suggest the library on 81st. Its larger and has more space. This one is small and lots of children come. But I LOVE IT!

    Photos
    Brookfield Branch Library
    Brookfield Branch Library - The inside if a great library

    The inside if a great library

    Brookfield Branch Library

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

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch

    4.4(34 reviews)
    6.2 miDimond District, Lower Hills

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

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

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

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

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

    Adult section to study or quietly chat.

    Oakland Public Library - Dimond Branch - Children's section

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    Children's section

    San Leandro Library - Main Library - libraries - Updated May 2026

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