This is the main (largest) branch of Burnaby Public Library, located next to Metropolis. Parking is plentiful in the underground lot. Not sure if it ever gets completely full, but I have never seen it happen. One thing to keep in mind that the gates close around 2000, which leads to the risk of getting one's car trapped overnight. There are also some metered spots on the surface. The place is fairly modern, but is a bit worn down from years of use. There are plenty of computer stations, and a nice atrium area with nice high windows. Lots of books inside too. read more

Burnaby Public Library - Front of library~ - Libraries Near Me - Burnaby, British Columbia

Look like the Burnaby Public Libarary was renovated sometime between Covid and now. It looks very spacious and open. The inside was bright. On the weekend the library is super busy. The inside is super clean. The bathrooms are much more modern style and there is a cleaner cleaning it frequently. read more

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... memories, and belated thanks for their 'Home Library Service' ... Sadly, a call had to be made to cancel my lady's 'Burnaby Home Library Service' recently. She had been receiving this service for a long, and so helpful number of consecutive years. She truly loved the staff who brought the books, and made most of the selections. Over the years, they got to know each other well, and really seemed to click on subjects, authors, and general interests. Several times, she called ahead of their coming, with titles she would enjoy receiving. Her suggestions were well-received, and always filled as best as they could. The service was monthly. Over the past 20+ years, I was usually here to watch her excitement on 'the day' each month when book exchanges took place. We (daughter and I) were advised to bring current books loaned out, back to any branch of Burnaby Public Library. We took the books back to the 'Cameron Branch', now temporarily located within Lougheed Mall. Thanks to staff there for the understanding, and caring service received. And a huge thanks to the many staff of the 'Burnaby Home Library Service' that came to the apartment's door with books for her each month. You truly made her day .... on so many days!! read more

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This location is a great community hubs that foster the connection of people to information and people to people. The main five things that define them are: - Great Location: the location of this library is right next to the sky train station so it's easier for people to come by. They are also next to Metrotown and Crystal Mall if you want to take a break from studying and have some lunch. But be aware, because of its location there will be busy time where it's hard to find a table. - Community Centre: they have a large outdoor area with beautiful gardens that encourage community gathering. All year round, in the morning you can see a group of seniors doing exercises in the morning, throughout the day children and dogs are playing there, and in the summer people can sit outside to read, study or have lunch. The library themselves also have several programs for children, youth, senior and especially, newly immigrants. - Facilities: Modern machines to checkout and return books. Clean and upgraded restrooms. They also have both outdoor and underground parking lot if you prefer driving there. There are several seating options for you with well lot lights to read or study. - Friendliness: My experience so far is great. All the librarians are very nice and helpful to me. They suggest help, advice on finding books and regularly check on people to make sure they are fine within the library. There's no late return fee (but please don't abuse it). All in all, I love this library. The place is spacious, beautiful, and clean with a big selection of books (or they can borrow it from another library for you). I love going there and will continue to visit. read more

Burnaby Public Library - Autumn in its yard - Libraries Near Me - Burnaby, British Columbia

**Part two** On Friday, the day of our lecture, once again my teacher didn't release the lecture notes until the evening, well after I had left work, and after class had started. So once again I wasted precious study time going to the library on Saturday morning to print my notes. I spotted a free computer (of which there are fewer available, due to covid) and ran to it, library card in hand, and typed in my log on information as fast as possible, fearing it being taken away from me before I could complete logging on. I went up the the librarian -- a different one than last time -- and explained that I needed to print more than 15 pages. But this librarian said that I absolutely could not print more than 15 pages, even if it were for school, so tough luck. While this time I knew they had this arbitrary 15 page limit, I had been told last time that it was not an issue and this policy was also not on their website, so I thought I would be allowed to print my notes. (I checked before I went to the library, and it made no mention of the 15 page limit. It also said that computer use was on a "first come, first serve" basis, something else that I know is false.) In tears, I left, and another librarian, seeing me crying and having a panic attack (it was absolutely crucial I print out these notes so that I could study this weekend), asked me what was wrong. I explained my situation, and because I was in such a state of distress, she reluctantly said that she would allow me to print more than 15 pages, but she was not happy about it and berated me for wanting to print 50 or so pages. (It's not my fault, BITCH, that my lecture notes are more than the arbitrary number of 15!) I told her that I was willing to pay, but she said that they "couldn't" accept payment, and used covid as an excuse. (People often say "can't" when they mean "won't".) Not allowing people to pay for printing due to covid makes no goddamn sense -- if you're so afraid that covid may be lurking on coins, then wear gloves when handling money, accept credit card payments, or add the fee to people's library accounts and have them pay online -- there are many reasonable solutions! If you are no longer accepting payment for printing, for whatever ridiculous reason (people use covid as an excuse for so many things), then at least allow people to print what they need, especially if it is for something like school! These four incidents have totally soured my opinion on this library, and the arbitrary 15 page limit is ABSURD. The only reason I am not giving this horrible library one star is because they have a new policy (which I think is a permanent policy, not just a covid policy) that there are no more late fees. (If your materials are overdue, you simply can't borrow more items until you return them or pay for them.) So two stars because of that policy. Otherwise, they fucking suck. I will continue to borrow books from them because, but I will never go there to use a computer, print anything, or study. [Yelp collections: Libraries and Bookstores] read more

This is my go to place for studying/job hunting or reading books and magazines. I love the wide selections of dvds and books. I've been going here quite often and I found myself irritated because of loud talkers and homeless lady (I saw her smoking in the washroom and wandering around the library), and the old Chinese people who brings lap top to watch movies in studying area. People seemed to ignore these signs and have no respect for others. Some security seemed to do their jobs and some didn't. One time, young mother walked through emergency exit and everyone heard the loud alarm until someone told her about this. I wish there was plentiful of power plugs and seats. I had a hard time finding a seat on Sunday afternoon. I personally like Central Library for the quietness and seats. Printing is about 40 cents per page. Convenient location next to Metrotown Skytrain and Crystal Mall. read more

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My recent visit reminded me why I used to hang out here as a teenager. The selection of books is wider and you can always find something interesting to read. Obviously the place has been updated and is much more modern. I love the new table lamps at the reading lounge area. It didn't look like a lamp at all. It has button to control how bright you want it to be and there is a USB port to charge your phone or iPad. Awesome! The chairs are spacious and relatively comfortable. I've seen people dozed off in the chairs. Security guards patrolled regularly and will check on those who dozed off if they are ok. So I'm not sure if you are allowed to sleep in library. The staff also goes round often to remove magazines and books left on the tables and chairs to make space for other library users. Free wifi is also available plus parking in the basement. This is still my favorite library. read more

This library is two levels and a decent one for Burnaby. There's free parking underground and metered parking on the ground floor. The location is close to Metrotown and the skytrain. In the summer, I like reading outside in their little garden. read more

Burnaby Public Library - Libraries Near Me - Burnaby, British Columbia

I love libraries. Just not this one. I've lived in Burnaby for a few years and I know that even though there are lots of libraries, doesn't mean that they're necessarily good. I grew up in a city in California that had ONE public library (because they rest were private) and it was the best. Great services and resources, so I do have high hopes when it comes to libraries. Here's the bad: 1.) Too loud and way too many non-library users. What I mean is people who come to the library to lounge and watch movies and blast music. There are also the creeps who stare and people watch - so uncomfortable. 2.) Book selection is limited. For a library so large, why are all the books at other branches? There were literally 5 copies of a book at Cameron Library (a tiny branch) and they charge to transfer it. Totally uncool. 3.) There are no group study places - aside from the one room they have that you have to get to the library at opening to book and you only get 2 hours. With many schools in close proximity and many transit options, this library should cater to group study sessions and have an area. Except NO, you have to whisper and be unproductive. 4.) Staffs are not professional and rude. I was at the librarian desk for help finding a book in a particular subject and stood in line waiting for help and when I got there the librarian simply said "No, we don't have it." without even looking it up. What?! Ugh. Last resort library. I'd rather go trek to Vancouver. read more

Always found this place as a social place for the students, very full upstairs to get a spot, & too much action to concentrate fully; ppl are always moving around here. Washrooms on both levels, and a lot cleaner than the DT one. The ground level ain't too bad with its lounge seating if you're into reading there w/ the current papers & magazines. One saving grace is its free underground parking & close to Metrotown. And close to Crystal Mall & Save on Foods to sneak in some junk food. read more

Long time no yelp! I apologize for my absence, yelpees. (But really, I'm pretty sure no one noticed I was gone.) Libraries are my thing. And this library here so happens to be the library that I grew up with. Indeed, I lived 3 mins away from this place for 7 years. Yea, having one of the city's largest libraries at your doorstep ain't that bad. Having something to print? 10 cents will do. Oh, I remember attending the summer reading program. Fun times y'all. Check it out. It ain't fancy (Vancouver Public Library it is not) but it's pretty dang good for Burnaby. read more

This is my favorite library to go to in lower mainland. The place is spacious, and they have long, long table, which I can place my belongings on top of it. If you like to read at a corner, there is always a spot to park. The staff is nice, and waiting time is not long. The book selection is great. They had a pretty huge section for newspaper, magazines area. They include some overseas editions too, which you don't see in other smaller branches. They also have fancy head lamp by the table, where I am totally relaxed at this place. Parking is plenty, there are underground parking spots. If you want to drop off a book, park at 15 mins spot is the way to go. Another nice thing about the library is that it is right next to metrotown mall and crystal mall. Can do shopping next door right away! read more

A very nice and decent sized library clean and very organized with pretty helpful staff. Skytrain and bus stops at walking distance. A nice area with greens and flowers right outside so you can enjoy or catch up with friends or work outside on the grass or the benches. There's free wifi and no password for login, easy access and good speed. Decent amount selections of books as well at this location read more

I love this library, it has a wide variety of books, easy self checkout system, the ability to put books on hold online, and the location is very convenient. Beautiful gardens out front. On many sunny days I 've enjoyed a newly checked out book and a cup of coffee under the Cherry trees here. Would 've been a 5 star review but docked a point because reading spaces inside the library are not that great. But otherwise, perfect for the general book lover. read more

With two spacious floors and more than enough comfy chairs to read a book or newspaper in, the main branch of the burnaby public library is already a large enough place for the relatively small portion of the community that come here. Although their free internet service is always backed up, the park and mall close by can provide more than enough distraction for those 45 minutes before you do some light browsing, not to mention the vast amount of literature available that you could always... read. I find them to have a better DVD and VHS selection than the main Vancouver Public branch, especially when it comes to foreign films (which they have entire shelves dedicated to). Sometimes they stock films you would be hard pressed to in a rental store. Also, like the books this is all free and public as long as its returned on time, so you dont need to your working dollars on something that was once recomended by that someone but you dont completely recall who... Anyways, its a relaxing and expansive place, but dont expect to find a lot of reference material here (especially compared to the VPL). As a previous reviewer said, they stock newsprint here, but they arent dedicated to it and theyre mostly on microprint. read more

BPL in North Burnaby has always been my favorite, even when it was in the old building. The new building has been around for a while and it's gorgeous! Even with all the glass and concrete, it somehow still feels comfortable. Great selection of books, DVDs, and they have a really friendly staff. Free wifi if you have a library card and a great view of Confederation Park. They allow drinks with lids (yay!) and there is a fire place in the back. ;) Thanks BPL for you years of service! read more

Been there many times, specially back then when I first came to Vancouver. Their selection of books is fantastic. Particularly top novels and comics which you can read laying on the gardens if it's a nice day. I would clean up the bathrooms more often though since most of the times smell! read more

When I first moved to Burnaby, this was the first place I visited. Mainly for two reasons...reason one. When I was passing by on the skytrain, I was really impressed with the courtyard in the back...or side...Actually now that I think about it, I'm not really sure which side of the building is considered the front. Anyways, reason one, Beautiful and well kept courtyard! reason two, I didn't have cable or internet yet at my place. So after speaking with the knowledgable staff, I perused the movie and tv show dvds. Awesome selection! Everything ranging from Buffy the Vampire Slayer tv series to The Guns of Naverone to Ukulele dvd tutorials! Free internet is another plus. If you're looking for a place to hold meetings or post or peruse local advertisements, again this place delivers. read more

I had the chance to revisit this library after a 15 year absence and for the most part, it has held up fairly well. I came on a wednesday evening and the parking lot downstairs was fairly empty and easy to park, and there were enough desk spaces to get set up. 15 years ago it was much more crowded. I'm guessing the coffee shop phenomenon has drained most of the crowds out. The wifi is open, so you don't have to be a member to use the wifi, and it seems speedy with nobody here. There are ample books and the library is of the right size that if you're interested in a subject, you can find a decent amount of what you want to learn about without feeling like you have to navigate endless floors. The chairs and table heights are made made for reading writing and studying. The ergonomics aren't that great for using a laptop. They have some newer chairs that are a bit more comfortable and padded over the standard wooden chairs. However for those study pros, I'd recommend bringing a nice padded seat cushion. The dvd section is pretty good and not picked over. Overall, I would say this space has the best energy for studying and get things done. I would say that this place is better than VPL downtown, Richmond Public Library Minoru and the VPL Renfrew Branch. read more

This library does not support public sharing. If you are able to secure a seat early in the place, do so, because it will be rightfully yours for the rest of the eternity. People just leave their belongings on the seat and go off for a nice stroll around town for however long they like, and when they come back, they can still claim not only the seat, even the outlets they were using before they left! If you dare to use the outlet while these people are gone, oooh boy aren't you in trouble. They can call the security on you because apparently you've taken the spot against the rule. read more

I'm thrilled, I got a free replacement library card and the check out asile looks really modern. The washrooms looks extremely good as usual. read more

It has been a while since I came the last time (about a year) there are a lot of changes specially on the main floor. It was renovated and there are self check out stations which I like. It has a modern look. Good job Burnaby! read more

The library is generally clean and the librarians are helpful. There are individual study spaces which are nice, but the place is usually packed full so arrive early if you want to actually be able to find a seat. A lot of the seats also don't have outlets so you will have to arrive extra early (as in right when it opens) to find an outlet seat. My biggest complaint--and it's a pretty big one--is with the security guards. They stalk the place and enforce the rules like their lives depend on it, making it a very uncomfortable place to work in. As another reviewer mentioned, they treat you like a criminal if they catch you crossing your legs up on the chairs (or even slipping your shoes off for a second -- mind you, I kept my socks on and I just wanted to stretch my feet!) or eating a little, non-crumbly, non-messy, non-smelly snack. I once had a guard tell me off for popping a piece of candy in my mouth! And woe betide you if you accidentally fall asleep or even rest your eyes! Last year, I dozed off after trying to read a particularly coma-inducing textbook, and the guard woke me up by YELLING "HELLO?!?!?!" into my ear. He then proceeded to loudly berate me for falling asleep, which I'm sure disturbed everyone else trying to work. When I tried to explain that I just needed to rest my eyes for a few minutes because I'd been reading for a few hours non-stop, he rudely cut me off and told me that if he caught me sleeping again he'd throw me out. A class A jerk. read more

Nice quiet place to study when people aren't talking on their phones...but don't get too cozy. Cross your legs up on the chairs, take out a little trail-mix and the security guards will treat you like a delinquent. read more

First off the surrounding landscape is just beautiful. This used to be my favorite spot to take out books and read on the lawn in the summer (yes I was that much of a geek). I found that their selections were much better than the Vancouver Public Library. I used to read vintage Rolling Stone magazines from the 70's here for fun. That is how I used t spend my Saturday's in high school....sitting and educating myself on music. My parents used to think that I was up to something with the mall being close by, however, they were thrown off when they saw me in the corner reading about the Sex Pistols first US performance in a quiet library. I don't go there anymore 'cause there is a $70 fine lingering from years ago from when my sister borrowed books on my card, all the interest built up. She hasn't paid me back and now the fine is so high I have to now go to Chapters to read the books or go to VPL downtown (this library is closer). Lots of room to do homework. I do come here to work on my zine, just not take out any books. If my sister is reading this....please pay the fine...there is a vintage Springsteen Rolling Stone mag that requires my immediate attention. read more

It can get packed at times for sure but it's very well located, has helpful staff and a good collection. Managed to borrow a few scholarly books I honestly didn't expected to find anywhere in the Lower Mainland, so that was very nice too! read more

Story time for toddlers is great the lady reading the stories and songs is amazing and she loves what she does! I think everyone should bring their toddlers and come every week!!! read more