There is incompetence and then there is Vista Government Employed incompetence... Thee - OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE for the VISTA LIBRARY is WRONG! and has been forever. Taxpayer money wasted for pointless murals and rando upgrades but nobody taxpayer employed for the Library was smart enough TO KEEP THE PUBLIC INFORMED - ya know, like on the freaking internet. Nobody expects Vista Government Employees to be the sharpest tools in the shed but this is absolutely appalling! There are many books on how the internet and clocks work - maybe read one! read more

This library is decent, I like they offer children storytime a couple times a week. I also really enjoyed their summer program and the kid friendly events they offered each week. Their kid area definitely could use an update. I had hoped when they closed for the month of September that they would've made some improvements, but sadly that didn't seem to have happened. Overall still a nice neighborhood library. read more

I went to the Vista library today to donate MANY perfect condition books for their bookstore. I am disabled and cannot walk well so asked for help bringing them in. All books in bags. Well, THREE women ( one older rude person behind the counter all curtly tell me no they can't help. No reason. Just no. Would have taken someone literally a minute. It's a sad disgusting situation when you really want to help and get this response. No more Vista library ever. read more

We went to the Vista Library, because they had an art activity that she wanted to do. The women who presented the activity, were very nice, helpful and prepared for the activity....the children's area in the library, was set up nicely, and was very inviting area for children of different ages. read more

Friendly and helpful staff. Really bummed that you'll be closed in September especially since it is one of the "cool zones". read more

Lots of magazines and newspapers and mostly quiet ... and tables so I can finish weaving in the ends of yarn for an afghan gift. Sometimes I doze off, which is not allowed. read more

Well, the parking lot has plenty of spaces, the murals and the tile artwork as you walk in are really beautiful and the staff is always friendly and helpful. I do wish they had more funding though because they don't have a lot of books. More often than not the book I want isn't offered there so I just keep settling on others. I'm giving five stars because the staff is so nice there and the library is well-maintained, but whoever is responsible for their funding and or book selection makes me want to give four stars. read more

I really should have checked the hours of operation because I came here for the blood drive. The librarian who helped me receive a new library card was helpful. I didn't know I could transfer my "home" membership from San Marcos to Vista. The new one has an updated design, so I'll make sure to not lose it! It's spacious, and the computer area was fine, except for the fact that there is a strange smell emanating from there. I think it's someone who smokes tobacco? In any case, it is quiet and well-kept. I prefer San Marcos, but I discovered a new little nature trail across the road. UPDATE: I noticed the bookstore on my way out, and you really can't beat 25 cents for rare greeting cards! It's like finding a little treasure. Cash only, and there are 50% sales on the last Fridays and Saturdays of the month. Plus, the cashier is always very friendly and kind. read more

I love reading and this library always has good books in stock. If you can't find one, make sure to put it on hold and they will bring it from another library. Such a cool feature to have. They also have a kids section where kids can play on the carpet or on the computer and you can read. The hours got shorter but the value remains the same. Do go visit! read more

Vista Library - Libraries Near Me - Vista, California

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While libraries have useful services and usually helpful staff, there is one thing I find UNACCEPTABLE - but nobody cares! If I were to turn the computer volume loud enough to bother anyone, or talk too loudly, I would get a warning from staff or security, and if I persisted - I would be removed because it is against library policy to make noise that disturbs other patrons. And yet - they hold concerts so loud I can't even drown the noise out with headphones! There is a banquet room for this - but they put it in the middle of everything - where no one can choose whether to listen or not. I worked at concerts for 32 years, and I am a musician - but I come to the library to read, study, and use a computer which is nearly impossible when these concerts can be as loud as a band in a night club. Maybe next time I'll bring an electric guitar and amp and just start jamming - if they don't call the police and have me charged with disturbing the peace! Hypocrites don't like their own policies if they can't break them themselves- and don't REALLY care if they bother the other patrons. A crust eaten in peace is better than a banquet partaken in anxiety. Aesop read more

I don't think people realize how amazing the inter library loan system (through Link and SD Circuit) is here. Do you realize you can get almost any book you can think of mailed from another library, sometimes in a completely different state, for FREE?? Do you realize you can put 50 children's books on hold, have them transferred from libraries all over the county, plucked off shelves by library staff, stacked together on a hold shelf just for you with your name on it so you can run in, grab the stack, frantically check the books out, and run back to the car parked in 3 min parking before some narc calls CPS on you for leaving the kids in the car? NOT EVERY LIBRARY HAS THESE INTERLIBRARY LOAN AND HOLD SERVICES FOLKS. We all know these services aren't actually FREE. You're paying for it each time you write that check for property taxes (or even indirectly through rent). That "free" lunch program they have in the summers? That ain't free either - someone's paying for it, and I've got a hunch it's me and you. But hey, they have it, use it! I treated my kids to lunch at the library 3 days a week all summer last year and I checked out books from link on the regular the entire 7 years I lived in Vista. The library itself is below average. Part of the reason I had to request books to be transferred so often is because their shelved selection sucks - especially when it comes to kid books. Sometimes I felt like the display books chosen in the children's section were trying to push an agenda instead of just highlighting normal, popular kId books. The library staff was hit and miss. There was one very, very nice woman that I saw regularly when picking up link books but other staff members were a little uptight and unfriendly. Honestly, the place as a whole always seemed a little depressing to me. I don't know if it was the lighting, the old carpet, the homeless people, or the unhappy staff, but nothing about that library made me want to spend any amount of time there beyond what was necessary to pick up my holds. I've since moved to Texas and now enjoy a much nicer library with a terrible interlibrary loan policy ($$$$$$), making me reflect on the positives and negatives the Vista library has to offer. I think the takeaway here, whether at my new library or old, is to be thankful for this incredible public service that encourages and facilitates reading. It's not exactly FREE, but it sure is a luxury. read more

Oh hello there. Sorry, I was just reading... uhh... books. They've got plenty of 'em here at the Vista Library. Not sure where they get them... maybe they're on the Amazon Prime? #MeToo Anyways, just finished reading: Machiavelli. Understood it perfectly. Don't know what all the fuss is about. It had some interesting points but very little plot. The brothers should have had a bigger impact. And it needed a more elaborate conclusion. Libraries are so awesome (thanks Ben Franklin)! There's 2-hours of free internet, music, movies, e-books, e-magazines... and good ol' fashioned books. Books are categorized here by section: Philosophy & Psychology, Religion, Social Sciences, Language, Science Sciences, Technology, Arts & Rec, Literature, History and Geography. And of course the YA / Romance section. What's up with all of this idealized sex? I know for a fact that underwear can't be ripped off of a body unless there's already a hole in them. Otherwise, you're just tugging on fabric. "Sheesh, thanks for the wedgie, Fabio." Some libraries, you visit to find some answers; but leave with only questions. Not this one, there are many books with answers here. Obscure reads you'll find by Mark Twain, Jane Austen, and Kurt Vonnegut. When they first opened... the Mystery section went missing. Ms. Maples, the librarian with the clever weekend parties, invited over a group of detectives after-hours to find it. Unfamiliar voices over the PA, menacing faces peering into windows, and little figurines toppling from desks untouched...the section was finally located! It was there the entire time!! The next book I'm going to check out? Tequila Mockingbird. If you're looking for only light fluff to take to the beach, go for the Tolstoy - the borrowing period is 3 weeks so pick up a couple. #BooksForFree #FearTheWedge #PageAgainstTheMachine read more

Vista Library - Where they keep the books and such I think - Libraries Near Me - Vista, California

Where else are you going to find free movies? Despite the size (kinda small), the Vista library is one of the busiest libraries in San Diego County. If you can't find what you're looking for on the shelves, you can order it online. Free Wi-Fi with lots of spots to sit, would love some cozy couches or chairs. Check the calendar for all the free events during the week - http://host.evanced.info/sdcl/evanced/eventcalendar.asp?ag=&et=&dt=mo&df=calendar&cn=0&private=0&ln=32. Just wish the bathrooms were cleaner. read more

My toddler and I love coming to the Vista Library. They've got a really fun kids area with a dollhouse, lego wall and legos, a play kitchen, fun kids tables with ABCs, and lots of interactive play features. The board books are easily accessible for little ones in low shelves. There's lots of tables and couches to sit at. We always find lots of great kid and adult books to check out. I also use my library card to get ebooks and audiobooks on the Libby app, which is awesome. There are lots of fun events, particularly over summer. We went to a story time with therapy dogs, saw Sparkles the clown, etc. There were other events we would have liked to make like Wild Wonders and meeting community heroes. They've got a great summer reading program, with prizes including local museum tickets. They have free craft events, book clubs, teen events, etc. I always love perusing the little book store too- you can always find some treasures. read more

I am so grateful to be able to use the computers here in addition to the excellent selection of books and CDs.

Now that we are almost over with the pandemic restrictions, all the county libraries are beginning to have programs, concerts and meetings in their premises. some of those concerts are held in the middle of the library(sometimes due to a limited space), customers can check the monthly calendar in advance to be aware of these events and decide if they want to go or not to the library. The other option is requesting in a cordial manner to be seated in a quiet place( if it is available). it is easy to complain about the libraries when you are not in their shoes snd can't see all the effort and regulations the library staff have to follow. read more

Plenty of parking Lots of books, videos and other stuff Free use of computers Nice helpful staff Plenty of classes to enroll in Great atmosphere! New website not easy to navigate so It needs more work read more

Where should I start? The library is overrun by homeless, 2 security guards constantly walking around, so you don't have a good vibe about it. And I'm not even talking about bathroom. During the school time, after 3 PM a huge crowd of kids (looks like from the middle school) arrive and they are running wild without any supervision (or any reaction from library stuff), until they are slowly picked up by parents. But the absolute disgrace is, how the guy in charge of the volunteers was handling my wife, she was kicked out from the appropriate room in favor of another guy. We have to move to another library. On the one positive note - to my big surprise there is a good selection of Russian books. Go figure - Russian language books in Vista? read more

I love Vista and the Encinitas Libraries. I order quite a few books...well I used to but find the new website confusing and frustrating. I still borrow about 4-5 books a week. Great employees at both locations. Good computer areas...interesting classes ( when they can). I'm addicted! read more

Sunday 8/20 library supposed to be open 10 am to 5 pm.Currently 10:40am no sign library closed. Why do I pay taxes?

They're so great! I've donated many times and have in turn found some great books for $1, $2. I love their auto biography selection. The recent fall festival had a wide array of family activities that made time fly! Always a good time with the kids. read more

I thought I posted a review here already but Yelp suggested I review this library. I went because they had Bluegrass Music in thier community room one Sunday. It's a beautiful large library with a large parking lot. Rows and rows of books. They have a bookstore that was even open on Sunday. I only wish that they sold Friends of the Library Pens. While it's a bit of a drive for me to visit this library only for books, I will return to hear more music. read more

This is one of the best libraries I have been to. Ther is A TON to do! They have story time, study time, computer programs for all ages ... The list goes on. They even have a Zumba class! We moved to Vista a few years ago and are within walking distance to the library. This is a regular stop for us on our walks. read more

The kids librarian is so good with kids! I can't wait till it opens back up! The adult section is never crowded one or two people if any

This is the one and only library in Vista, and it's a San Diego County library. Building is large and newer. Book selection is pretty generic, but you can request books from other county libraries. They have programs and activities for people of all ages. Most of the staff are nice and helpful, but some are rude and just sit and browse the internet and don't want to help you. Tip: If you have late fines on a book, wait until the last Friday of the month to return it, and then they automatically waive the fines. There are security guards inside, but not outside in the parking lot. A couple years ago a man attempted to kidnap a young girl here- a girl and her sister were standing right out in front, and a man tried to drag a girl away and when her older sister tried to help her, he punched the older sister in the face. He did get caught and arrested later. read more

This is a wonderful library offering many different programs for everyone. My grandchildren love going to this library more than Chucky Cheese and that says a LoT! The summer free lunch program is another wonderful program offering all healthy and tasty meals for children. It's really a blessing for us and many families. Plus it gives you an opportunity to meet the many fabulous people that make up our wonderful and charming community of Vista. read more

I enjoy going to the Vista library mostly because it is the closest library in my area. I usually just go to the bookstore which is nice and has a good selection for its size. You can find good deals in there and they are always friendly. I like to collect vintage books and they always have a good selection to choose from. I have noticed the books have gone up in price quite a bit over the years but they do have half off days towards the end of the month which is cool. I rarely go to the library section because a majority of the time they never have the books I'm looking for. I usually have to put the books on hold online and then pick them up when they are available. If you go there looking for classic authors to read they are pretty limited. However if you want to read every Danielle Steel or James Patterson book ever written then this is your place. I don't mean that to sound harsh but there are literally multiple shelves filled with their books but I couldn't find any by John Steinbeck or Hunter S. Thompson (two of my favorites). They really could do with a lot more books though as many of their shelves are half empty. However they do have a nice comics/graphic novel section. I also noticed that when I go to this library there are always teens making a ton of noise from their section which happens to be right in the middle of the library. The sound travels throughout the whole library and when I was there today (for around two hours) it was constant yelling, screaming and giggling. It's a nice library overall (nice seating areas, desks, big DVD section, etc) which is why I am giving it four stars. It could be better if they had more books but I can't really fault them for that. read more

One of the best places to visit in Vista! Friendly staff, and everything you need in a library. Plenty of movies, current books, classes, activities for kids, and many more classes and events for everyone. read more

Jesus H Christ what a disheveled mess of a hell pit. Damn screaming bratty kids running around while clueless library staff watch and shrug their shoulders. Do not go here if you expect a quite environment. I complained to one of the librarians (the guy looked like Shaggy) and he basically just said "yeah we are loud here". Seriously, I could get more work done at a construction zone during an atomic bomb blast than I could at this joke of a place. And hey parents, CONTROL YOUR DAMN CHILDREN. read more

Watched a guy get kicked out for talking on his cell phone in the computer lab. MADE MY DAY! A sweet librarian also helped me retrieve some work I thought I had lost when the computer ran out if time. This place is growing on me. read more

This library is always busy. It is open seven days a week which is impressive. They have hundreds of free events and classes from kids to seniors available. During the summer they have free lunches for children up to age 18. If the book you wish to read is not available you can request it from another library in the county. There are many DVDs if you want to watch a movie at home. There is also a computer room for patrons to use. I have to agree with others that this library is LOUD. I would not want to study there. There is also a used book store where you can purchase used books for a few dollars. I like this library. It is beneficial to the community. I only wish it was a little quieter. read more

I'm strictly here to study. There's always that one kid in the library that is crying and whining. While their parent ignores them. This library is HUGE which is great for all other purposes except this situation. I wish for a moment the library was small so the ignoring parent could see me give her a stink eye! LOL! Otherwise, this library is AWESOME! Great big windows to see green landscaping, birds chirping, lots of tables with plush and comfy seats. Sounds romantic almost. I shall bring my boyfriend here for a quiet-reading-nerd-cheap-i'm-getting-old date read more

I haven't been to a public library since I was a kid or touring some famous or historic library. I decided to get a library card so I could - here's a tip - get free downloads of ebooks! I picked the Vista library because it is near my work and its a branch of the San Diego County library so I figured that it would have more ebooks to pick from. I didn't do much else other then get the card, which by the way was super easy to do. Anyhow, the library seemed clean and like it had a large selection of books. It also had a number of public computers. read more

I agree with Kirt W.: this place is a well kept secret. The books are in great condition with a decent selection, and since it's part of the County System, you can always request a book from another branch if the one you're looking for isn't readily available. This branch is very modern in that it has a quick self checkout system. They have little movie days throughout the week, and the staff is very, very amiable. I forget the lady's name who registered me, but she was endlessly helpful in welcoming me to the community and sharing the ins and outs of the system. Only negative comment: I "camped out" here once, and tried to read a book, but due to the small nature of the library, it's rather noisy and I left (yes, there's a lot of kids who will ghetto blast Eminem from their earbuds so not only are they causing permanent tympanic damage, but they're also blasting it for your attention too... there's also a man who breathes too heavily for comfort near the window). read more

Nice little library- has a little bit of everything but not a huge selection of any one thing. The Encore book store sells used books and magazines. Too bad the volunteers can't be a little more appreciative of the donations. I've never been thanked and have even been told my donations were not wanted in the most rude way! read more

I haven't used the public library in a while. What a well-kept secret! One thing hasn't changed, it can be a bit of a zoo after school but I can't complain, I used the library after a school as a kid too. What's amazing is how you can go online, look up a book and have it waiting for you when you get to the library! All the branches are hooked together, included libraries beyond the county system, so you can request a book and in a day or three, you get an email that it's waiting for you. With the electronic check-out, you don't actually interact with anyone, it's in-and-out. It's like my four bookshelves at home just turned into a million volume collection! Keep this quiet for Barnes and Noble, Amazon, etc. are in trouble! read more

A well-deserved "shout out" to the personnel associated with the Vista Public Library (VPL)! Unsung hero/heroines all. Since arriving from out-of-state, actually an out-of-country posting, a little over three years ago, I've been fortunate enough to be located within 10 miles of the VPL. A clean, safe/secure, well-maintained (inside and out) facility replete with a security specialist during operating hours. But, particularly with this community asset, it's all about the personnel. To the person, all current and past (for me, I guess that might only be Marcy who relocated to a branch closer to her home) VPL personnel have CONSISTENTLY demonstrated five (5) professional characteristics/mannerisms: helpfulness, expertise, patience and did I mention helpfulness and lastly but most importantly, helpfulness. I almost hesitated posting this laudatory review for the selfish reason that I hate to wait in lines plus I don't mean to "stampede the herd." As an important aside, no surprise but the VPL personnel assiduously practices and promotes all COVID-19 protocols. read more

Places like this are disappearing everyday and it's a shame. I admit the only reason I was here this time was because I needed to use a computer. In this age of everything online libraries are ignored. The smell of the books should be enough to bring me back, it's intoxicating to me. They even have a used bookstore! Treat yourself, find the time to visit, you won't regret it. read more

There are a number of things to like about this library : free DVDs, they will order books from other libraries through LINK+, and the staff is fairly helpful. Internet access is free; printing is available for 15cents a page. My main complaint is their strict policies on volunteering: you have to take a drug test in front of the doctor. I wanted to be a tutor and won't do it because of that policy . Another negative is the quality of the DVDs; they are checked out frequently and never replaced. read more

This is my favorite library! The staff is super friendly and the A/C is always running during the summer. I wrote my resume here and I'm not ashamed to say I even looked for jobs here online. The children's programs were great during the summer when my cousins came to visit. For those of you who need it they have a free lunch program for the kids during summer break. read more