Yelp Review - Bay Shore Neighborhood Library Bay Shore Neighborhood Library is a tiny library offering a small collection of books stacked at the edge of Belmont Shore, along East Second Street. My visit here was strange; the activity and atmosphere felt as though I was standing in the middle of a stage with inauthentic actors sharing the space. Upon arrival, the librarians behind the counter were conversing among themselves and did not verbalize a greeting when I entered. I wasn't necessarily bothered by this, as the vibe of the place felt intended to be relaxed. Honestly, when someone loudly declares a "hello" the moment you walk in, it can be overstimulating, so I wasn't entirely put off by the lack of greeting. While I was there, I did find a nice handful of unique and interesting books, particularly in the historical and fantasy genres, that looked like they would be good reads. As for the seating arrangements, they were accommodating and matched the amount of space available within the layout. That said, it was noticeable that the majority of people appeared uncomfortable with how close they were sitting to one another. This is something to keep in mind if you intend to come in for remote work. There is a mini bookshelf area with books for sale located in the foyer right as you enter, facing the water. In the high-chair seating area, the electrical outlets seem to be low in their energetic output. For example, I arrived around 2:00 p.m. with 10% battery and left around 6:00 p.m. with only 35% power. This library feels more suitable for browsing and reading, and less ideal for remote work. The bathroom was grotesque. The floors were dirty, the loo (toilet) was unclean, and the restroom clearly needed a serious deep cleaning. This was surprising, as there didn't seem to be any legitimate reason for the bathroom to be so severely unkempt. Lastly, there was a spectacle involving staff and patrons that included an exchange of words, during which the statement was made--and I quote--"this library is for whites only." I will leave that for you to check against your own sound and ethical moral compass. read more

Bay Shore Library - You can see the view of the water in the library. - Libraries Near Me - Long Beach, California

Always a good time at bay shore library especially Saturday morning story time at 11am for all ages and they do songs, chants and stories. Afterwards the children can play with some toys. read more

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So I am on a mission to collect library cards, and DRUM ROLL....this is my 6th card. So when driving in the area, I had to stop especially since I am always in the LBC, how do I not have a card already? Library is pretty small and at the end of the busy 2nd street row of cool and popular stores and restaurants. The parking lot is small and in the alley. Not too many spaces, but you may find some parking on the street. Upon walking in, I was greeted by the librarian and asked if I needed anything. I was just browsing upon walking in so wasn't too sure what I wanted. The selection is pretty decent and I found quite a few of my favorites but ended up going with a copy of one of a Tia Williams book. The book was in great condition and it has been on my TBR list for quite some time. When I took my book to the front desk, the same librarian who greeted me helped me with signing up for a new card. She was so excited to help me and began letting me know of all the cool events they have at the library. Pretty easy process and she was so talkative so the time went by fast. So if you live in LB, check out this library, the views are amazing of the adjacent marina. There is an outside area to people watch and enjoy that beach breeze. If you are looking for something in particular, try downloading their app and reserving your books to pick them up at a later time. Staff is great and will be happy to assist you. Happy reading! read more

Given the three parking spaces, this is a locals' library, with a prime location, with the sandy showers of Bayshore Beach less than 12 feet to the east and Long Beach's Second Street to the west. For members, they have public computers and free wifi. It's air-conditioned, though they more often rely on the overhead fans and ocean breeze. For a fee, you can do basic printing and copying or reserve the meeting room. For nonmembers, they have questionable looks. read more

Great library with even greater views out their windows. It is a bit small but there's a great selection of books to look through. The reason I didn't give them five stars is because parking is nearly impossible unless you go a few blocks away and park in the neighborhood. They do have a little library parking lot but it's fits about only 5 cars and is always full. read more

I love this library. I've been a patron for almost 5 years now, and am grateful for the services they provide to the community. LOGISTICS: Currently open Tuesday - Saturday. Small rear parking lot and limited street parking available (aim for Bayshore Avenue), though it's within walking distance from most of Belmont Shore proper, next to the marina and just shy of the bridge over into Naples. You can sign up for a library card easily enough, which gives you access to the whole catalog, including electronic books. SERVICE: The librarians are wonderful. While I've only interacted with them when taking out and returning books, they've always been extremely friendly, helpful with questions, and create a calm and welcoming environment. They were adaptable during the peak of the pandemic, and found ways to still connect with the community when in-person patronage wasn't possible. OTHER: There's a few computers with Wifi, a children's area, a general reading area, and lots of shelving with books. While this is a smaller library with a more limited stock, the inter-library loan service amongst the libraries in Long Beach is incredibly convenient, and allows you to pick up books from other branches at your library of choice. The online catalog is vast, including new releases within 1-2 months of publication, and the books are in great condition. read more

I'm embarrassed that it took me ~15 years to finally get an LBPL card, but here we are. I'd passed by the Bayshore Library thousands of times, but finally paid a visit when it opened up after COVID-19 closure. It is small, but mighty! As it is on a very busy corner of two high traffic streets, finding a parking spot can be challenging. I would highly recommend parking east of Second Street on Bayshore or on The Toledo, and enjoying a lovely walk to the library. You'll likely catch a lovely marine breeze! I would not recommend trying to park in the library lot next to the back door on busy summer days - getting out can be a nightmare. The inside of the library is cozy, but offers a wide variety of content. It's usually very quiet and there is a security guard inside. As mentioned in other reviews, this location offers a nice view if bustling Bayshore Ave. and the bay. The library staff is helpful and very friendly. I really like the head librarian who seems to be well read and offers great book recommendations! I usually pre order a book and pick it up, but have browsed without anything in mind and've found some gems. The LBPL on-line ordering system is also easy to use and I definitely recommend it. I have encountered long waitlists for some books, but just pop over and find something to dive into while waiting. I can't speak to digital or audio book content or quality, but the selection that I see in the portal seems to be vast. read more

Outstanding local library easy walk from my home with friendly staff beautiful location where I can view the beach while sampling reading materials. Great section of materials for grandchildren, good selection of new non fiction. Always busy with people taking advantage of the computer access. read more

Long Beach Public Library has 12 locations within Long Beach. The Bay Shore Neighborhood Branch Library is conveniently located on 2nd Street in Belmont Shore. We have programming for all ages throughout the year and provide a variety of services to help our community. Need us to find a book, answer a question, point you in the right direction for your own research? Stop by or give us a call @ 562.570-1039. Click here to search our catalog: http://encore.lbpl.org/iii/encore/home?lang=eng The Bay Shore Branch is one of the smaller libraries in Long Beach, but we have a well developed collection for both adults and children. We carry current periodicals/magazines and have 5 computers for public use. Are you a student? Our Family Learning Center is the place for you! We offer personal assistance to yet you going in the right direction, as well as live and computer reference sources. There are also 4 additional computers in this area for use. Help is available for students doing homework and adults seeking computer knowledge - call for more info. Our auditorium hosts many library events and is available for rental. We love our community and we welcome you to stop by and say hi! For more info, contact us! 562.570.1039 www.lbpl.org catrina.hanna@lbpl.org Thanks! Catrina Hanna, MLIS Librarian @ Bay Shore :) read more

Nice little library. Sitting area has glass windows facing directly at the beach, which can be distracting if you stare at it and the beachgoers for too long :) Wifi is good. There are some homeless people inside but it doesn't bother me. One star off because of parking. There's only one small designated parking lot behind the library and it's meter, but cheap $1 for 2 hours. Street parking can be hard to find, maybe because it was the weekend. I'm a poor student so I parked 1 block down the street and walked. Good exercise, no complaint here. There are plenty of restaurants within walking distance. Overall a good experience. read more

Yesterday, I attended the adult book club for the first time. When I walked in, no one greeted me (not even the facilitator). I sat and listened attentively to the discussion of the monthly read. When it was over, I got up and left. Again, no one acknowledged my attendance or made any gesture to introduce themself to me. It was collective rudeness. read more

Nice area with a great view of the beach. Plenty of outlets for charging and laptops. Mostly designed for kids, and is kind of small but is a great neighborhood library. read more

This is a small library but the staff are the kindest most helpful people I've ever encountered. I met Charlotte who was new to the branch but she was able to suggest different books to help me and even offered to order some books to help me. She understood me right away and guided me to all the information I needed to research. This is an awesome (little) library. read more

This is officially my new favorite spot. Relatively quite atmosphere. Great location can take a break and head to the beach or down the street for food. read more

Very conveniently located and parking is the best deal in Belmont....25 cents for an HOUR! Librarians are very helpful and friendly. Don't like that LB libraries charge for DVDs and media. I got an OC library card just to borrow DVDs and CDs. read more

Bay view, two carts of used dollar books, celebrity biography section, sweet lady librarians, always a twenty minute parking spot on the bay side, and cheap meters in the alley side if you want to hang out longer. I always use Long Beach's online reservation system, which has the unintended effect of relegating my visits to "pop-bys" only, but the envoronment is most conducive to some browsing and lounging. I have mad love for this library. read more

Love this place so far. It's cozy but cute, perfect view of the bay. I was lucky enough to find parking right in front of the library but it seems to be pretty decent. Internet connection is really good so far. As with most Long Beach libraries, you'll need to sign in with your library card and PIN. The only issue is that every fifteen minutes or so, it keeps making me sign back in and it is kind of annoying. Clean rest rooms. There is one large table with six chairs and outlets, which I have all to myself right now. It is relatively quiet too. read more

Very quiet. And a nice view of the bay. I have been coming to this library since I was a kid. Brings me back many memories. Love this spot. Free WiFi and tables to do your work. 5 Stars all the way. Just wish they had the bean bag chairs still read more

I can't believe they charge for borrowing DVDs. I've never seen that. I guess I've been spoiled. I will be using their interlibrary hold system for books since they don't have a lot in stock. read more

Pros -free wifi with library card -several areas with outlets for charging -nice view of the ocean -employees work hard shushing loud kids and adults - fast and easy to get a library if LB resident - programs for kids -a few computers for public Cons - need a key for restroom - limited hours - parking stinks Overall a great place to study and work online! read more

Bay Shore Library - Not a bad view to do schoolwork - Libraries Near Me - Long Beach, California

I like this library a lot but today I had a very bad experience I noticed an ugly horrible smell and I turn around and there's a homeless lady inside the library without her shoes that smelled as if she had peed all over herself it was very uncomfortable to be looking for books with my daughter having to smell this lady and see her with no shoes and her blanket on the floor this was today around 3 pm at the last aisle right hand side of library' I think they should reserve their right to let this kind of people hang out there just to smell the place out very disappointing read more

Such a gem by the water and it is the perfect walking distance from my home. They have a wonderful collection and somehow they always have what I'm looking for, and if they don't, you can easily request what you're looking for from another local library for no fee and receive it within a week...that's 5 stars alone! As a LBC resident, we are very fortunate to have such a great public library system read more

Reliable library, printer always works, in and out in less than ten minutes for a print job, great view of the bay, and staff is always helpful :) read more

This local library branch is convenient, has a great view of the water. The librarians are always nice and helpful. It is a small branch but you can always request books online and they will be delivered to the branch. I love visiting Bay Shore library! read more

The Belmont Music Studio has students perform in a classical recital here twice a year! The view is beautiful, and the ambiance is lovely. Parking lot on sight, which is nice. A lot of locals love going to the library, including the Belmont Music Studio:) read more

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This place is a hidden gem. Love the place, the people and their constantly changing selection of items. I got to this place to research, study and sometimes just blog. It's my little escape. read more

This little library was quite the find for me. There were only a few parking spots in front of the library, but you can find metered street parking for some chump change. I came across this library because I needed to have multiple exams proctored for my online classes. The other libraries that I found in Torrance, Redondo Beach and El Segundo charged from $25-$55 per exam. This wasn't going to work for me since I have 9 exams in one semester. Luckily, I found Bay Shore and was ecstatic that they offer proctoring services free of charge! Also, the librarians were super friendly and very helpful. read more

Great place to come alone or with your child. Great selection of books. Great channel and boats view. Knowledgeable and friendly stAff. And if u get tired of studying, or reading for pleasure - get out on the beach right across the road. read more

A little small for my taste, but they have an ok selection. Located at the end of Downtown Belmont Shore, the facade is bland and the entrances are hard to find. Inside you'll find a cramped space full of adult books, and a rather larger space for children's books. If you don't find what you're looking for (which I find likely) they'll be happy to order it for you. read more

I love this library!!! Yes it is small but in my opinion it adds to the charm. Not to mention I almost always go online and request any and all books I want, and like magic, they are delivered here! Being a teacher I am always in the children's section which is ample at this location. The female librarians are always sooooo sweet....the male librarians are...um... somewhat less friendly (I'm use to it the other way around, but anyway) I do love this library, frequent it often and would recommend it to anyone.The gorgeous view of the water doesn't hurt either. read more

Yes, it's a small branch, but it's clean, well-stocked, and quiet. The librarians are friendly, and it's got a nice view too, right next to the water. read more

You can't beat the view - I love to sit and read looking out on the water, especially in the summer when cars are not permitted on the road. The staff is exceptionally helpful and my favorite librarian often suggests another book I might want to read. Access to books not on the shelves is easy on-line. Also, there is a growing e-book selection that is expected to be ok for Kindle soon. Right now, it serves Nook and Sony or downloads onto your computer. read more

This library is by the beach see you can chill relax and read a good book where else could you go in the nice cool breeze and see the seed of water read more

Wow the staff are friendly , and I was treated like royalty when the nice younger girl with the dark hair put me in the green room to study & take a mandatory test for my job . I was able to use the computer in they're for an unlimited time . I passed the test ! :) I also love that you can sit & look outside at the bay while your phone or other things are plugged in the outlets there . Like Starbucks. But better because it's free ! Thank you staff for friendly customer service ! read more

This library was quite a surprise! Its masterfully well organized. I found many great books in the new releases, some surprises (I'd been looking everywhere for a copy of Tallula Rising). The staff were helpful even though they were very busy. Overall, a nice little library! read more

so this is my closest now. great view. not the best selection in house. friendly staff. pc's always full. no wifi....yet!

Nice library, with helpful and informed librarians. Unfortunately it gets a bit noisy at times - people talking in their normal speaking voices or louder, carrying on conversations with each other or on their cell phones. I thought libraries were supposed to be quiet ... read more