They have a big catalog and really fast Wi-Fi! As of July 2025, I got 410 Mbps Down and 475 Mbps Up on my laptop.

This is my first experience visiting the library. The staff is very welcoming and friendly. They explained everything, helped me choose books. The system is automated and simple. I'll be happy to come back. For starters, we took two books to read. You can also use the computer in the reading room. read more

Burbank Public Library - Central Branch - Books - Libraries Near Me - Burbank, California

Out of all 3 Burbank branches, this one always has the most I'm looking for "in stock." Extensive nonfiction section, computers with the catalogue for easy locating, etc. I just wish they renovated it and redesigned the interior. Aside from seemingly being untouched since the 70's, it doesn't really feel welcoming in any way and doesn't help that there are unhoused individuals that park / stay there every time I've gone to this location. Staff have been nice and helpful. Has a small lot but never had a problem with parking. I get their newsletters and love that they host a lot of events - book sales, workshops, etc. read more

I find it absolutely amazing that this "Burbank" library runs so poorly. The reception staff and computer room staff are wonderful but, the computers need to be thrown out! There is a problem with using headsets provided by the library for a charge on practically every computer available. In the recent month's there internet has been down. There are problems with using Facebook and Yahoo. Although these problems have been reported by me, per occasion, nothing has been done. I've left messages for the Director of the library twice. The second time the Director (who is new) blatantly lied and told me new computers were due to arrive. That was over a month ago, and they still haven't arrived. He stated that they were late even then. I just walked into the computer room and asked the person working if he knew when the computers were being replaced and he stated "he knew nothing about that". Burbank is truly a sad city run by individuals without a clue. I encourage others to go to other libraries as this one is pathetic. read more

Its a nice library from the many times i have been here. Id kick it here years ago when lived in North Hollywood many years ago. They have lots of books and magazines. Nice size library with computers and children books. Yeah they have a big problem with homeless people sometimes disturbing people in the library. All in all i have never have had any problems here in the past. read more

So many bums here. The whole library smells like a homeless camp. Somehow the library chairs and tables are still kept clean. I do not feel safe here. read more

Decent library, although Burbank has better locations than this one. It's the Central one, older, kinda outdated, with a smaller parking lot, but it has its own charm. I love libraries, so I had to check this one out. Not the best location ever, not the worst, they had a book sale on Saturday so it was very crowded. But I love that people care about books, movies, music, so I don't mind the crowds. OK location, if it's close to you it can be a decent resource. I parked on the street, so if you don't mind walking for less than a minute, there's that option (the lot was full). Easy to get to from downtown Burbank. read more

The Service: The staffs at the front desk are friendly. This location has more homeless people inside the library compared to other locations in Burbank. The Parking: Small parking lot and street parking (free) read more

They only have two hour parking?? The other branches do not post a limit. I study for 4 or 5 hours at the library ???

This branch seems to have more new releases that skew literary over best seller, so I prefer coming here. Parking lot is small but I've never not found a space, and the librarians are all really nice! Upstairs they have a gallery of photos of Burbank Rose Parade floats that are a really cool look back through time. read more

If you are black prepare to be potentially met with attitude and borderline racism and discrimination from a specific employee and the culture that is being cultivated there with their patrons. There's a way to treat patrons and guests, especially people there for their first time. It would behoove me if this person is not checked and retaught how to represent the company/library and display proper customer service/guest experience at all times when dealing with guests. If proper guest experience and customer service is not important to this library and how employees represent themselves to one another and the people they are serving then something drastically needs to change. I would never bring my toddler into this environment if that's the case which I was excited to introduce him to the various kid programs I had inquired about earlier. But nope not if what I experienced is acceptable to this establishment. And if that lady has such a hard time smiling and being pleasant and treating people with courtesy, respect and grace then maybe she shouldn't be working at that library and should pursue something she's passionate about. read more

The parking space is so small and you are only allowed to park there for 2 hours. We stopped here to do homework and what not, but it ended up not being our best option. The work tables or study areas do not have outlets to plug your tablet (some do but most did not or at least it was not visible). The inside itself is stuffy and super hot. The carper looks rather old and it totally made my allergies flare up. The internet is free to use without a library card if you bring your own laptop. You do need a library card to use their computers or you may do a free quick search, because you can use their computer's internet without a card for 15min. The librarians were friendly and welcoming but I would have rather parked at a coffee shop and pay a few bucks to be able to finish my work without the worry of taking more than 2hrs to do it or trying to concentrate as my body dehydrates due to the heat. read more

I came this branch in-person and I told the librarian I don't remember my library card info. She told me to call retrieve it. There wasn't a single person behind me. She refused to go inside,which she can do, but wouldn't assist me. This branch doesn't have beauty and its customer service doesn't exist. What are our tax dollars paying for? read more

Dumpy and smelly old library. In desperate need of renovations. Skip Burbank and go to Glendale library instead. Staff is super friendly but this place feels like it hasn't been dusted since the 80s. read more

Solid children's level! Second floor. And across the way from The Americana! They have nice librarians and even a fish tank. Would recommend to families. read more

Love the children's area, I always find more that I need there for my little ones. Such an invaluable community resource.

I pay a visit to the Central Branch Burbank Library from time to time when I want to borrow a book, but rarely for studying purposes. They have a great selection of books and wonderful staff, but the library itself is fairly old and could use some work. Also, the people that come here are always very loud and the staff does not seem to do anything about it. I see advertisements for a bunch of programs they have and there's always a book setup pertaining to some sort of event that is going on in that month. Overall a pretty good library but I would rather go to the Buena Vista branch. read more

I'm quite sure that I entered this world by bursting through a book rather than a womb. My father was an author and I spent much of my time in libraries and his printing press before I was old enough to even talk. I go to the library once a week (I have 23 check-ins and am the duchess at MY library of the Buena Vista branch of the Burbank system) and even plan to get married at a library. Basically, I read books as often as you watch re-runs of Jersey Shore. Do you get the point? I love libraries and books. The Central Branch library has a issue with very little parking (although some is available across the street---although who wants to walk that far) but once you get past that and find a spot, you walk into a building whose exterior looks like the standard 70s California architecture (with a hint of Frank Lloyd Wright). In fact, it looks like the twin of a library I grew up with in Ohio. Odd. The interior is set up in a slightly odd way with the check-out area in the front lobby (you can basically leave forgetting to check out) while the actual library portion is somewhat cluttered (not at all spacious like the Buena Vista branch). There are computers and desks everywhere which makes walking around difficult and you crash into the tables like bumper cars. Call number on the shelves aren't in order so they can tough to follow and find what you are searching for. The great thing about this library is that the non-fiction selection is quite extensive (I am a history and art buff). However, if you are a magazine person? You won't really find much here. The selection is sparse and it seems like everything is checked out. The Children's library consists of a floor upstairs which seems to be a bit more updated for the kiddos. The Central Branch is also filled with teenagers "studying" as opposed to the Buena Vista branch which seems to have at least a collegiate crowd. While the staff is kind, it still isn't as homey as the Buena Vista Branch. Basically, it doesn't feel like a "Central" library although it does have an auditorium for library activities/events. Not bad, but I suggest the Buena Vista branch in terms of the Burbank system. Plus, you can find me there adding to my check-ins! read more

The library.... It's such a great place to hang out, read, borrow books, use the computer, take a class or workshop and whatever.... No eating, drinking, nakedness and/or talking allowed at the Burbank Library (like all the other libraries around this great country). Well, I went today to return some books... And found out from the librarian that they were all late. Wow, really. I should have noted it on my calendar. Graduation is on there. Okay, I tried to give some lame excuses, however, there was still a late fee. So, I paid it all up. I'm completely square, again! I heart the public library! read more

The Central Burbank LIbrary is absolutely beyond DISGUSTING. This library was never the beacon of clean but it has devolved to another level in the last decade and really really awful the last five years. The number of homeless and unwashed far outweighs those that are employed and have hygiene in their daily lives. I dropped in a few times to work and was really regretful immediately. I cleaned down the area I was using and asked for Lysol to no avail. The odor is masked for less than two minutes. I would like to append my thoughts to state it is more of a stench than an 'odor.' People smell like they have rolled in urine and 'other things.' Addtiionally, the librarian on duty the day I last visited was extra rude when I asked him to please tell a 'patron' to not snore. He snipped at me and stated that they are allowed to sleep in the library. Get a frickin' job, find a place to sleep in your home, and please take a frickin' shower!! There was one guy that lived in his van and had no shoes that this library allowed to sit in the lobby for almost a year. The stench on that one was BEYOND anything I ever experienced (and that is saying something). The library should only be for people who want to work, learn, be productive, and PAY TAXES!!! In the event you are 'unhoused,' then every frickin' day you should be on the free computers (assuming you don't have one), learning skills to GET YOURSELF A JOB..or two. Those that are mentally ill should not be pushed on the tax paying public. They should be forced into treatment programs or sent elsewhere. Karen Bass best hop to it and work swiftly. I did not vote for her but this is her job now! Note: I gave the branch two stars because it does have a decent selection of books for a small branch. I would, however, suggest anyone in the area refrain and go to either Buena Vista or Northwest (if it is open). I have not been to the Northwest branch in many years but I imagine it can't be as bad as Central! read more

Clean and quiet with a blazing fast free WiFi connection. Forget trying to work at Panera Bread or Corner Bakery Cafe, this library has the amazingly good WiFi and plugs for your laptop. They also have an extensive audio-visual collection including DVDs and music CDs of all genres. All the discs are sealed in plastic boxes which means you will need a library card to use them. I easily spent an entire afternoon here. read more

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How to stop a rude or disrespectful the library is not very quiet on the inside don't highly recommended if you are looking for a library in Burbank go to the one on Buena Vista read more

Really disappointed with this Library. The staff is nice. The problem is they make no effort at all to keep the noise down. There is always someone either talking on a cell or speaking at regular volume. Tutors love to teach here in full voice. Couldn't drown it out with headphones and music. It would be really easy for the staff to correct this. They just don't want to deal with it. I finally went up to complain with another person who experienced the same thing. They acted like we were the problem. I'm done with this branch. Sad because libraries are one of the best uses of taxpayer money but this one is not. read more

Let me be clear: I know what it's like to be homeless and understand how valuable of a resource the library can be for them. It's the same mentality people have about phones and the homeless(many don't know you can get a phone for free because it is so hard nowadays to survive without one) If you have an issue seeing poverty, stop using government buildings: because everyone has a right to be there and you're the same one complaining that they should go to school or get a job(very likely what they're trying to do) That being said: the last time I went a gentleman had parked his buggy(we've all stolen a shopping cart at some point so people need to chill on that) right by the front door. It was filled to the brim with literal trash and some of the food was starting to rot. I went up to the front desk to air my concern, and while the initial reaction was "oh geez someone else is complaining about seeing poor people " her attitude greatly changed when I explained that maybe they could provide a better place for the gentleman to keep his belongings safe, and that exposing people to a sanitary hazard like that(especially children) could be harmful. I did witness her go back and ask the gentleman to move his things, and he was very sweet about it and complied without any issue. Other than that: I came from a small town and some people complaining about the size of the library floored me! In my hometown our library was about the size of a mcdonalds and we had to fight to keep it open. There were so many nonfiction resources and I love coming here to learn new things. If you are opposed to popping earbuds in if you need absolute silence or isolation this one may not be for you: as even though there is not a ton of noise, they are more laid back when it comes to chatter. There are also always going to be people complaining about teens; in a world dominated by social media we should be thrilled that teens are wanting to spend time in the library, but those people complaining are never happy. Overall, it was clean and personable. The librarians are real and have their own personalities: not everyone is going to like everyone and that's ok! I'm glad we have this resource and hope it will be here for years to come read more

It has been a while that I walked into a local public library. It was great! And unlike what I expected, I am happy to report that the place was packed! I was very pleased to find the new book, that is still selling at $27 on Amazon, for free for one week check-out, but renewable for another. And all can be done remotely! How awesome is that?! At the reference desk, they were very helpful, and patient. And so were at check-out. They have free internet access, and plenty of computers for such a small library. Parking is limited but then, you can always park on Olive. Little library with great service! read more

Burbank Public Library - Central Branch - Summer reading! - Libraries Near Me - Burbank, California

Friendly staff, great up-to-date collection of books, and an impressive selection of DVDs including latest releases: Can someone say WOW?! The library also hosts movie screenings, workshops, events, and classes; there are books and CDs for a mere 25 cents for sale.... and the list goes on and on. There are curbside drop-off bins so you can return stuff quickly & conveniently too. This is the older branch, not as fancy as the Buena Vista one, but nothing beats walking to the library to check out a few great books. Come visit soon, and you might be pleasantly surprised at how much you could love a public library! Library membership is free. Just bring ID. read more

Burbank Public Library - Central Branch - Libraries Near Me - Burbank, California

Stopped by here to look at Christmas Rose Parade Floats! Amazing work whoever did work on them:) read more

Burbank Public Library - Central Branch - Libraries Near Me - Burbank, California

hi everyone just wanting everyone to know what is going on at the Burbank Library on Glenoaks and Olive. There are containers outside where you can put dvds and books into. The containers are being burgularized by the homeless. I have recently witnessed a homeless man grabbing things out of the containers and the idiot even tried to crawl into the container. I have complained to the Burbank Library however nothing is being done as usual. The homeless man took some of my stuff and now they are claiming that I owe money to the Library. I do not owe them anything and I sure as heck am not going to pay for anything that I do not owe. If you have turned in items to the containers and the library is claiming that they did not receive them than you may want to file complaint against giving them any money for the items. Something has got to be done about this. Oh, and I have also complained to the Burbank police department but of course they will not do a thing about the homeless doing this. read more

People want to know how this library compares with LAPL. First of all, you can get a library card even though you don't live in Burbank and many people do since this location is near a transportation hub. With a card you can have 2 hours a day on public computers and without you can use 15 minute at a time computers. Print outs cost 10 cents as do photocopies. LAPL slays with 25 cents. You can also do Color copies. Lots of Burbank residents also use LAPL. The chairs to sit at the computers are horrible flexing plastic stack chairs that are as far from ergonomics as possible. They sit too low for most people to be in correct typing position and offer no back support whatsoever and have even put mine into spasm - so this branch is to be avoided if you need a firm chair to lean against to sit up straight, or any other temporary or permanent physical condition challenged by lousy seating. More than one senior citizen, including a woman who used to volunteer at that library, thinks so. NEW AND APPROPRIATE SEATING SHOULD BE A PRIORITY. As should the tie in, ADA considerations. Generally the computers function much better than LAPLs. They're faster. But they do go down at times. Burbank has an agreement with LAPL so if you accidentally drop off books to the wrong library system there's a good chance they'll make it back to the right place. With only three branches in Burbank, overall the collection cannot complete with LAPL. However, the librarians in Burbank have more say about what's purchased and know their patrons. For instance, this branch has dedicated lots of space to mystery books/ authors. Overall, Burbank DVD/ film collection is outstanding. I've enjoyed several special programs in recent years but wish more of them were on saturdays. As for librarians there are some who are helpful and professionally pleasant and a couple who would have done better to find work where they don't have to deal with the public. Even if you try to avoid them, you'll overhear snide comments and attitude and rudeness to others, enough to make you think, "By Jove that person needs a personality transplant!" This observation goes for some desk clerk as well. Unlike other branches, it seems few people here are getting into the free WiFi. Should you even go to a library any more if you hate poor people? The public includes people from ALL walks of life including the poorest of the poor, a vanishing class in increasingly snobby and expensive Burbank. And let's face it that that includes some people who can't afford their own home computer at this time, or who are living in vehicles, or come by after going to B-TAC. All libraries as public spaces play an important role in the survival of these people. In an effort to rid the area of people who were hanging out around the big tree that had some benches around it, the benches were removed. Maybe there was after hours drinking but when I sat there during the day I never saw it. I liked sitting under the tree to take a break and have a snack, wait for the library to open, or just to enjoy the tree. Now people just sit on the ground near the tree. read more

The central library needs a major renovation. It's such a shame because they have so many great books. However every time I come here, there is a horrible odor. I think it's from the carpet. The staff is always helpful. They also have programs for kids, so check their website for upcoming events. read more

I come here to write a lot and I've read the reviews about homeless people but it's never bothered me until today. Homeless bloke comes in and sits near me and starts clipping his finger nails right at the table. None of the employees say a word and he continues as if it's normal. I left and probably won't be back. Super gross. read more

Nice enough library, but the staff can be kind of rude. Sometimes it makes me dread going to this branch, but I still go, because I like libraries. Gave it one star because there are plenty of better options in the Burbank/Glendale area. read more

My review is solely on the DVD aspect of this library. I absolutely love their DVD area. They have such a wide range to choose from...from new movies and TV shows to older titles and foreign language films. I'm constantly amazed at some of the rarer things I've found there that I would've never expected them to have. I love that the area is nice and spacious so you're not crammed into one aisle with 10 other people like the Buena Vista library and I can easily find something they show as being available. The few times I haven't been able to find what I was looking for, the clerk that works the area has always found it right away for me. This library has become by go-to place for catching up on movies and shows I missed and I'm so grateful it's there. read more

Great movie and book collection. Cramped building. read more

Burbank Public Library - Central Branch - Libraries Near Me - Burbank, California

I used to live right down the street from this branch and I just have to say it got me into reading again, after a few years of being in a reading slump. I would walk over the branch and usually I would have way too many books to comfortably carry back home. I found a few new authors that I really love and they have a great anime selection as far as DVDs go. One thing I've always wondered though... what the heck is upstairs? UPDATE 7/6/09: I went a few weeks ago and went upstairs finally... the children's area is upstairs! And it's awfully nice =) read more

Burbank has a vibrant library system with three large branches spread through the city. Each has a large collection and great staff. In addition to the regular library stuff, the Burbank Library, through a friends of the library group, sponsors summer reading camps, guest lectures and a photography contest. They make one want to go to the library again! PS: the photo contest entrants are on display until the end of March 2009 and the central branch. read more

Good collection and good place for book lover. Everything is fine here except staff members. I was trying to reach to supervisor for more than 3 weeks but didn't get chance to talk to the Supervisor. I left voicemail with all the details but never received a call back from the Supervisor. When I contacted library they said call after 15mins and even after 15 mins no success. For me for any place authority should be prompt and approachable to handle any issues or concerns. read more

I have been going here as a kid and it has been the same, cool place for kids and adults to hang out and best of all DVDS FOR RENT FOR FREE!! read more

Nice library. It's an oldie but goodie. Great location---easy walk to downtown Burbank. They have concerts in the park, book sales, movies...the usual activities. There's always a nice art display in the entrance. You don't have to live in Burbank to request a library card either. read more

I used to come here all the time, but the last time I was here there were a bunch of high school kids talking and laughing obnoxiously as if they're chilling at their neighborhood starbucks. I remember a few years ago it was never like this; the library was relatively strict about noise level, which made it awesome to come by and get some work done. It was to the point where I was uneasy about doing group projects there because I didn't want to disturb the complete quiet. Might have been an off day, but it really pissed me off that those kids were being so rude because I was in the middle of studying for finals and was desperately was searching for a few hours of peace and quiet, to no avail. The strange thing is this library has a beautiful outside area where they could have hung out and made all the noise they wanted, so I don't see why they had to sit in there and take up space (it was crowded that particular evening so I had no choice but to sit in the area). Overall, fantastic library if there are no kids there. You get 20 mins of computer use if you have a computer lab pass which you have to sign in for per use. Printing is 10c/page still, I believe. Good selection, helpful staff, and usually plenty of space to sit and study, although it does get pretty crowded at times. They're also awesome about late fees. Apparently I checked out some naughty books when I was a wee lad and had turned in the books late, so a few years later when I showed up there they just waived the fees out of embarrassment. Curious little child I was hehe. Don't take my word about the fee thing, might have just gotten lucky or something. I'm still looking for a good late-night study spot, but I'd go back to the Burbank library. read more