Pros: Nice library. There are many tables available from size of 4 seats to personal 1 seater tables. There's a couple long tables too that's shared, can seat about 6 people. It's a 2 story library. Upstairs have books and a couple small tables. There's an elevator available if unable to use stairs. Cons: the only complaint I have is that the staff at the Reference Desk get chatty and talk TOO loud. The thing is the seating tables to sit and read/study are right in front of that Reference Desk, so it's very inconsiderate and disruptive for the patrons trying to have a quiet read or study. I mean it's a library! It's supposed to be quiet yet the irony of the staff. read more

I was in the area already and decided to check this library out and get a library card as well. I love how modern clean organized and spacious. There's a lot of seating for everyone and there was an event going on in the children's section where it looks like a Star Wars theme/ picture op with the people dressed up as Star Wars characters. read more

Whittier Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

The good thing about this library is that on some nights they stay open until 800pm where us working class can still get there in time. The library feels very spacious and is brightly lit. The staff is very welcoming and they have nice clean restrooms. read more

Whittier Central Library - Welcome mat FEB2026 - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

I was in the area for an appointment and had some free time so I stopped by. It's such a beautiful library and well laid out. Employees are super friendly and helpful. But note this is not a part of the LA library, but a separate branch, so I couldn't use my card. Ample parking. read more

Whittier Central Library - Beautiful entrance with a pond - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

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This library holds such a special place in my heart. I spent so much of my childhood here. I finally got to attend my first Booktoberfest, and wow what an amazing event! We had such a wonderful time. The food and drinks were absolutely delicious. The staff was so friendly and I love my new tote bag! The musician Ernie was fantastic. The event was organized and I am so glad to give back to a library that means so much to me. read more

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There are several libraries in Whittier, so I made sure to come to the right one. I read that they spent millions on the renovations, so I was curious to see what it looked like. However, I never visited the old library, so I have nothing to compare it to. Apparently, they reopened last summer, and it still looks very new and well-kept. It only took a few minutes to create a library card. For the Whittier public card, it's also used at the Whitwood Branch Library, and both addresses are conveniently placed on the back of the card. The employee told me I could borrow 2 books today and then 40 after I return the 2. She was very kind and patient, making the entire experience more enjoyable. But I actually came here initially to print some documents out. Unfortunately, they only take cash, so I was out of luck and should have brought some loose change. It's 15 cents for black and white and 75 cents for color. I'm glad I chose this location because it's stunning. I thought it would be bigger, but I didn't explore the second floor nor the kids' section. The layout looks kind of cramped in the front, but it does open up once you walk further in. The other thing is that they have a tiny bookstore, but they didn't have any postcards/greeting cards that most libraries have. But, I'll be back to check if I'm wrong. read more

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I love this library I've been coming here since I was little but the staff is so rude for no reason not sure what is happening

We started coming here every week and it's been a really great experience so far. They have a really big section for kids , with little benches and a nice "tree house". Everyone's friendly and they also have classes for kids (coding etc), and Lego clubs, and other activities. During the winter they will do the in n out burger reading club where you'll get a burger every 5 books your child reads. Overall a nice calm place for my library kids! read more

Parking is sorely inadequate. This morning there was no parking in the designated lot or within a reasonable distance on residential streets. read more

Great library first time there yesterday I definitely want to go back they have a lot of books to read read more

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This is such a nice library , it's a brand new building inside and out if this was my area I'd come visit regularly read more

Whittier Central Library - Inside Library - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

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Just reviewing the passport service. We had a great experience here, and it went flawless. The library was recently beautifully remodeled. We made our appointment and were greeted by the friendly library staff and taken to a private room. They were so accommodating to my kids, and getting my youngest daughter to take a picture was a feat in itself. They came out perfect, and definitely would recommend doing your passports here. read more

Wow- what a beautiful remodel for a Whittier favorite. Like many others, I was eagerly awaiting the re-opening with this huge remodel underway. I finally got the chance to swing by this week. There's a beautiful new fountain in the front with a small bench. As you walk inside, the building looks bright and clean. To the right, you'll find a childrens section separated from the rest of the library. There are two stories in the main section offering a computer lab where you can print for $0.15 a page, tons of desks and seats, conference rooms and multiple ipads to help you search for items. The selection is huge. I want to highlight the specialized health kits of hand selected items the staff put together that can be found in the front. Im so appreciative to the library for sharing these resources to help the community. I was able to get myself a new library card within a few minutes with the front desk. So excited to return and keep up with their events, which can be found on the calendars on the front desk. Here's to zero late fees! read more

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Went to get passport here today. We had an appointment. This library is so beautiful. They just remodeled. Everything is soooo nice and modern. I can't believe that they invited us to sit down in a nice office with modern chairs. Both my kids and my husband had a very comfortable time getting passports. The staff is very nice and friendly as well. The children's area has so many beautiful books and many of them are new. I highly recommend it. I wish I took more photos. read more

Whittier Central Library - Modern design of the lobby. - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

This is an incredible library and really centrally located for those who live close to Uptown Whittier. Once you apply for a library card, your access to their book collection is great. They have a great study area around the library, which I found helpful when I wanted a quiet place to read books that I ended up checking out. Or, if I just wanted a space to work on stuff. The staff are good here. Friendly and approachable if you have any questions. You can easily walk to this library if you're in the area. It's definitely a nice walk getting there. I want to visit this library again! read more

One of the gems of Whittier, this library has stood for decades. It sadly is in need of repairs and a recent bond measure that would fund most of the $25M renovation failed to pass a 66% super-majority by only a handful of votes. TBH, I wished the bond measure passed because the library has been showing its age. When I entered the library, I'm welcomed by the modern art "Books" letters and the statue of the Barefoot Boy dipping his feet in the small pond. The library is airy with high ceilings and very well lit with natural light during the day. We've had so many experiences here including getting passports processed, engaged in their summer reading challenges for kids, and just visiting to check out books on a near weekly basis. The library is a very large space which also includes a second floor and a computer center. When I drop off books, I left them at the front desk but they easily can be deposited in the outdoor drop off box. This is a great place that needs support. I just hope it remains standing for a long time. read more

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One of the biggest and better libraries in Whittier. Right next to the police station and very limited parking. So be careful where you park. Other than that they have lots of computers and magazines here. Tons of old books to borrow and read. Good community programs for students around. Staff are nice here. I have been here plenty of times. Always a good place to visit. read more

So disappointed to see them removing all the charm from our library to transform it into just another cold, modern eyesore. The Cerritos library is not far and is much bigger with architectural details that are better thought out and more interesting, including a large aquarium! I recommend skipping this blight and making the drive there instead. read more

I'd give them ten stars if it was an option. The director, Paymaneh Maghsoudi, is a true service oriented professsional and her entire staff is top notch read more

The renovation took forever but was worth it. Gone are the musty smells, creaky 50's furniture, and overall faded interior. The upstairs area is considerably expanded with additional study areas downstairs as well. The feel is bright, open, and simple with plenty of nods to history. Glad it's back. read more

Its a nice and clean library to study, only a few people were there at the time when I came. Staff were nice too so thats a bonus!. read more

Whittier Central Library - Whittier Library Entrance - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

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This is specifically for their passport service. Excellent! Excellent!! Excellent!!! Made our appointment on line, showed up with our documents, done in 10 minutes per person!!! Person was so nice and helpful. I guess we could've left earlier but we sat and chit chatted for a little bit. Fill out your forms beforehand people!! read more

This particular library reminds me of the kind I used to go to when I was a kid. You know the ones where there were old librarians who made everyone shushhhh when you tried to talk? Now not everyone that works here is an octogenarian. As a matter of fact most of the employees here are in there late teens or early 20's so the culture of this library is established at the top of the food chain by 2 or 3 of the veteran librarians. Atmosphere: As soon as you walk in the calm and quiet of this location hits you like a muffled slap in the face. That's not bad mind you, just don't expect to be able to have any long conversations in here at any levels resembling normal conversation. I happen to prefer a more community based approach like at the County Library in Norwalk on Imperial Highway. Mind you the quiet here does lend itself to more serious studies and endeavors so if that's your thing this is a great library for you. Me however can stand and do appreciate a little higher energy level and that impacts my rating. 3 stars Staff: The staff is well trained and eager to help if you need it. Today I learned that control C and control V are copy and paste. Pro tip: The computers are only checked out for 1 hour usage at a time, but if you ask one of the younger librarians they will almost always let you use it for extra time, sometimes up to a full hour more. Never ask any librarian over 30 for this favor though. ;-) 3.5 Stars Security: Mike the security guard is the rockstar of this location. Like Paul Blart Mall Cop he rests on his little security chair waiting for library rule breaking to erupt. When it does he's ready at a moments notice. If you're working above a whisper or haven't left the library at least 5 minutes before closing, he will hover over you like the Goodyear Blimp until you get the hint. 1 Star Computers: This location has a number of computers you can check out on both the 1st and 2nd floor. Unlike busier libraries, its always easy to find an empty PC to use. On the other hand the computers here are rather slow and clunky. Not sure exactly what it is but its not hard to quickly tune up a PC which in this case they obviously haven't done. The internet here seems reasonably fast though its hard to say because the computers are so clunky. Pro-tip: The computers over at the County Library in Norwalk are faster and much more responsive. 1 1/2 stars. Overall: This library feels like a throwback to those of yesteryear. Its not a bad place, or one where they don't have the materials or resources you need, it just feels a little oldish and in need of a facelift and a tuneup. 2.5 Stars read more

Whittier Central Library - View from the 2nd story computer area. - Libraries Near Me - Whittier, California

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This Library Has Been Serving The Whittier Community Since Before I Was Even Born 40yrs Ago And Has Been Great Having Around To Learn And Grow :-) read more

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***This review is for their passport services only**** It was time to renew my son's passport for our vacation. I needed to find a location that could accommodate my schedule, only being free on the weekends., and I stumbled upon the Whittier location. I called and left a message and someone returned my call before the end of the day. I scheduled for the next available Saturday appointment (about two weeks). A few days before they called to remind me of the scheduled appointment. We arrived early but since they move quickly we were seen 15 minutes early. She was really nice and helpful. She took my son's picture, printed it out, reviewed the forms, and processed our application. The whole process was quick and easy, which my son was happy about. She gave us the information to track the status of his passport. All in all a great experience with very friendly people! I definitely recommend coming here to apply or renew your passport! read more

I would love to issue 5 Stars but you must drop the ancient irrelevant tradition of closing all Sundays!

I got my library card here after my 1 year anniversary as a Whittier resident :) I'm a fan of the Whittier Library because it's a very relaxed environment. I grew up w/ the Cerritos Library and even though it's one of the most beautiful libraries, I hated it because of the strict/study atmosphere--so intense!!! Everybody there always appeared on edge--think of it occupants carrying the stress level associated w/ cramming for the SATs, everyday--year after year. The Whittier Library is the exact opposite, and even though it shows a lot of age, that age is well maintained. Sure, it's not the most technologically advanced library, and sure it doesn't have a 1,000 gallon salt water aquarium built into the wall, but love the fact that as I enter through the doors that there are WWF (sorry World Wildlife Fund, we're talking wrestling here!!!) figurines which reminded me so fondly of the better times in my life as a child. The decor of the library is very humble... which is way better than pretentious. The staff is courteous and friendly. I wanted to look up a book and had no idea how to use the Catalog--the help desk assisted me w/ a smile and even escorted me to the book and made sure I understood everything--kudos! Great magazine selection and big kids section too--about 10 computers to log onto the internet w/ and comfortable chairs to lounge. I'm happy to have signed up for a card at the Whittier Library, it's a constant reminded of what's out there other than the internet. These days we spend so much time in the comfort of our home that it's sad to see that many of us have forgotten about the institutions that have so valiantly raised our parents and grandparents through their childhood. Help support your city's funding, go apply for a library card and relax there once or twice a month--read a book or something ;) read more

I live 1 mile away from the library in Hacienda Heights, and I drove here so I could hopefully study in peace. I haven't been here for a while, so I was a little confused when I saw 2 hour limit parking signs all over the place. I drove around the neighborhood and saw even more 2 hour parking signs. I ended up parking in the main library lot and attempted to get some answers to where I could find more accommodating parking spots. Me: hi, I plan on studying here for a while so I was wondering if there are any parking spots that aren't marked as 2 hours? Library attendant: uh ... Yeah ... Hehe haha they don't really check but .. Sometimes they do .. So I don't know if you want to take a risk or not. They do have some parking in the structure across the street but they have a three hour restriction. I don't care if this library has been serving the city for hundreds of years because I'm a student who spends more than 2 hours studying at one time ... And I'm sure there are others with a similar case. I wasted half an hour of time just driving here for nothing because I didn't see any other Yelp reviews mention "2 HOUR PARKING ONLY." Thanks but no thanks; I ended up driving back to my local library to study, despite the fact that it could get noisy and it's 5 times smaller than this one. read more

I've visited this library for years and years, since I was a little thing. I did the summer programs, too... fun times. I think that's why I love to read now. It started at this library. Since then, I've realized this library is pretty small and limited compared to other public libraries. But I can appreciate what it offers: a nice DVD and audio book collection. Nonfiction and fiction are small. But it's really easy to order books from other libraries, so it's ok. I like the kid's area, too. There are tables and computers at the right height for children. I've been coming back quite a lot, since I have a lot of time in the car, I play audio books. I like the selection so far, and I bet I can borrow others from other libraries in the area. Wireless internet is free, but it's kind of hard work trying to find outlets by the tables in the study area. Inconvenient, but easily righted. Love libraries. And this one is pretty good. It's in Whittier and close to me, so much the better. read more

The library is fine but the passport service is AWFUL!!!! My 90 year old dad applied for his passport here. 8 weeks later we wondered why he hadn't receive it yet and after days of calling etc., we were told that it was because his birth certificate wasn't certified. Our neighbor also had the same problem with his birth certificate and he applied 2 weeks later. You would think that if this is what these people do all day, they would be trained enough to tell people that they did not have the proper documentation., especially when you pay extra for the service there. DON'T go here for your passport....suck it up and go to the post office or the passport office. read more

I spent a lot of time here when I was a child. I loved the children's reading hour, and when I got a little bit older, this is where I did my first library research for a report I was writing. I was in the third or fourth grade, and my report was on a saint, although I don't remember which one. The Whittwood branch was closer to my house, but this one had many more books. I also liked to visit because my cousin worked here for a while. When I was a teenager, the older kid who used to drive my carpool often refused to take me all the way home, so he often left me off here. I would then wait for a friend's mom to pick us up or walk the few miles home. That really sucked, especially considering the fact that it would have taken him a grand total of ten extra minutes to drop me off. Instead, I either had to walk forty-five minutes or wait here. When I did wait here, the security guard always hassled me and the other guy I waited with. We would talk, but we didn't hang around near the books, and generally, I think the security guard just didn't trust us. When I did try to do more grown-up research here, I was constantly frustrated by the inadequacy of the lending collection. read more

Great staff, super friendly and helpful. My cousin recommended us to get our passports here. Pam helped us out and she was very kind

Really nice library and with a great abundance of books! That's mainly what i love about this library. I always find the books I need for research or just for leisure. It has a children's section for them to do homework in and it has a section with tables for adults. The personel here are nice and organized and very helpful. I t does get pretty noisy sometimes though and it's hard to concentrate when your reading or studying. other than that, this is a very good library to come to =) read more

I had an appointment for a passport and it went smooth. I highly recommend having an appointment here. We were there a total of 5-10 minutes. I was greeted by an older person and she was very helpful. We had a photo taken too. They're fee was $10-$15 (don't recall exact amount) but it was worth it. They only make appointments 2-weeks out but it's worth it. It beats the inconsistency at post offices. read more

Molly !!!! Whoooo Hoooo !!! Came to the library ... geez she was awesome!! I recommend everyone to come here and talk to her about anything regarding Passports and Books! I had a lot of concerns about current issues and se went above and beyond to assist me. I tell all you YELPERS out there .... please visit The Whittier Public Library and always ask for Molly ... she's awesome ! read more

I received an email that the book I checked out was overdue but I dropped it in the box a couple of days before the due date. Chris, who helped me over the phone said that my account has no books checked out but the email could not have been recalled. I do not like that there is no one to take responsibility for the inconvenience of this situation. I shouldn't have go out of my way to call the library about a past due notice when I turned in my book on time. read more

Great place to study and browse the internet. WiFi is free and there is not a code needed which makes it so convenient. As far as quality and quantity on books, articles and magazines go, Whittier Library is the best city library around. They are so helpful in helping you find the item or will have it shipped next day at no cost! Another plus is the ever pumping AC that will make your stay a lot cozier. They even have awesome novelty items for sell with the Whittier name on it! read more

Love this library !!! Great books story times for the little ones with fun activities

Updated review: After coming here to study for a while I try to avoid this place as much as I can now because it is very loud and people let their annoying kids run all over the place. You can also get a passport here which is not good for anyone trying to study cos people are constantly applying for their passports...which brings in more noise. Whittier should really consider remodeling this place because a few of the desks and chair are very old and cracking. They might also want to consider moving the passport area where it can be isolated and not bother people trying to read and study. I don't like studying or reading here anymore because of these reasons and more; you're better off going to the Whittwood branch a few minutes down the street. One more thing...PEOPLE, PLEASE DON'T LET YOUR KIDS RUN AROUND THE LIBRARY, LEAVE THEM AT THE KIDS SECTION!!! read more

Bigger than I expected. Not too loud. Free wi-fi that you dont need password for, but does move a bit slow. Biggest complaint is that the study/table area does not have many outlets for your computer. That is a major problem (and one that is easy to fix). There is also some upstairs study area, which seems nice but is only for high school kids. read more