I visited this library for the first time when I was around 35 years old. I didn't know all this about San Francisco...you could move sometime and you don't know all of it...so much to see and explore...weather's nice... read more

it is unusual to yelp about a library copier experience ... but after today's experience I just wanted to say how amazing it was. I called in earlier to talk to a male librarian at the branch who was really friendly and told me about the copier services available. so I bucked down to the library as I literally only had 10 minutes to make some copies on the eve before Christmas Eve. The library staff woman at the counter was SO SO helpful to handhold me through the complicated process of registering my library card at the branch and helping me basically press every single button on the complicated series of machines to get my 20 copies made! I also learned you can get $2 worth of copies every single day for free with a library card! wow. so I got all my copies for FREE!!!!! OMG it was way better than going to Fedex!!!!!! anyway I was so impressed by the customer service I got from the friendly librarian who took the time to help me and I was in and out of the library in lightning speed time!!! THANK YOU MARINA BRANCH LIBRARY STAFF - YOU GUYS ARE AWESOME. YOU MADE MY DAY read more

The staff there are often short with the children and homeless people inside. It's quite small inside.

The Marina Branch Library is adjacent to a nice park w/ tennis courts, basketball courts, & a baseball diamond. The library is small on a single floor on the ground level yet has a smart collection of books & even some vinyl. Kudos for having a subscription to VegNews as patrons of the library can check out back issues. On Sat Nov 16th, 2019 the Marina Library will have an Open House to celebrate their 12th Anniversary of their Grand Reopening. Many programs are on offer at this branch including: Halloween Costume Swap Chi Kung class Craft Night Book Club read more

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I am within walking distance of this library which I chose today because it's near errands and usually is quiet, clean with ample seating and cooler to get out of today's heat. While it's clean with some seating, I'm kinda shocked how noisy it is after school. I understand Marina Middle School is right next door I grew up going to libraries after school but I don't remember children and adults being able to yell/talk so loudly to disturb others who want to read or study where it's suppose to be quiet I'll rethink coming here during the school year/after school. read more

Located in the Moscone Recreation Center, this small library is a great quiet place to catch up on studying, internet browsing and just reading. There may be limited books, but at least there are a few computers. read more

Marina Branch Library - Inside - Libraries Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I've never stepped foot inside, so take this review with whatever it is you take reviews with when you're not sure you should believe them. For most of the first year of COVID, San Francisco's public libraries weren't open. Long after they technically could be open, they weren't really open, because many library staff members had been reassigned to COVID-related city jobs, like working in hotels that had been turned into homeless shelters. When some branches eventually reopened, they were--like most restaurants at the time--only for takeout. They had a cutesy or punny (read: not funny) name for it, but the service itself was pretty spectacular and was definitely safe for all involved. Anyway, when I place books on hold, I normally pick them up from the Park Branch, which might be the second closest branch to me but which I walk by all the time. But the Park Branch wasn't in the first round of branches to open with the to-go service, so I cycled through three or four branches and trying picking up from them (more reviews upcoming). Since I wasn't taking Muni at the time, my main criterion was either easy street parking or a dedicated parking lot. For some reason, I thought the Marina Branch had a parking lot and/or was near a park with a parking lot. Having already tried the takeout service at a couple of other branches, I knew exactly what to expect. I would wait in line six feet apart from other people in line. I would present my library card at the sort-of-outdoor checkout desk. The librarian would zap my card with their card-reader gun. The librarian would retrieve my book(s). Did I mention that I came here in February 2021? That probably doesn't mean anything to you, and I won't elaborate in a particularly identifiable way, but the timing was important. I drove over and down the hill, and I was dismayed that everything I thought about the Marina Branch's parking situation was incorrect. That's my own fault, but I did find a street spot not far away right quick. I was trying to avoid someone who had recently moved to the neighborhood--or so I thought--so I grabbed my bag and my umbrella and walked to the library. There were three or four people in line already, so I had to stand on that sidewalk and risk the person I wanted to avoid walking by, leashed dog in tow. What would I say? How awkward would the small talk be? Would there be fake pleasantries and pre-broken promises to keep in touch or hang out sometime? Again, I'm not explaining this very well, but I'm doing a poor job on purpose. It's just too much, even more than a year-and-a-half later. The line eventually dwindled, and a very helpful and funny librarian eventually retrieved the two books I had put on hold. I made it back to my car without seeing anyone I didn't want to see, although I did see someone walking a strangely familiar dog past my car right after I had gotten inside. The owner had brown hair, though, so I knew I was all right. Based mostly on who lives nearby--although really not that close--I probably won't be coming back here anytime soon, and the library is back to normal anyway. But that harrowing experience was good for me, in the long run, and I thank the Marina Branch for that life lesson. read more

We love this library. Wonderful service when needing help in finding the exact DVD or book. Friendly staff who actually greet everyone with genuine smiles and greetings! Everyone: use the public library! It is the best deal out there! read more

The librarian was super helpful and patient as I gathered information to pick up my library card.

Maybe I've been spoiled. Maybe I'm so used to the Main Library that everything else is just not awesome enough. But I found this branch to be too small for me and anything other than a pickup station. I can browse Main, everything's listed under Fiction. They don't mix some of my favorite paranormal/urban fantasy authors with sci-fi I wouldn't touch with a ten foot pole so I have to check two places and then find out they're just too small to have what I'm looking for in either place. I can see using this one to pick up ordered books, but for anything else it's a miss. read more

I love studying here. I usually come on Sunday and stay from 1pm-4pm. It gets crowded and there's usually a lot of people waiting for a computer. Not too many books to choose from (I need books related to the fashion retail industry). The neighborhood is quiet and safe. The staff is friendly. read more

Marina Branch Library - Libraries Near Me - San Francisco, California

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The last time I came here was back in high school. This facility looks better than before especially since its renovation. Libraries always make a perfect spot for studying, reading a book, magazine or newspaper. Yes, this branch is indeed a little small which is my only criticism. But I must openly admit that it's good to have a library nearby because it's of very good use. It is an environment where anyone can educate themselves outside of the classroom. I will be back to borrow a book when I want to find something else to read and educate myself outside of the classroom. An edit to this review will provided once I try the service here. read more

It was 4:47 pm as I stood in line patiently waiting to get a library card. The person checking out books announced to the line of patrons that they could check out their own books at the express checkout. I mentioned to her I was waiting to get a library card. She then proceeds to tell me that they do not accept or process library card applications 10-15 minutes prior to closing time. Did I mention it was 4:47 pm? I was clearly in the 10-15 minute window, but she was too lazy to take one more application. I needed the book, it was in my hand, and my second grade class was excited to learn about Christopher Columbus and I had been searching all day for this book. I was so close, but she was too inconsiderate and couldn't be bothered to process ONE additional application. I politely asked where this 10-15 minute window for applications was posted, she couldn't tell me, but instead gave me an application form to bring for next time. The lack of customer service at this branch will certainly discourage me from taking the time to fill out the application and have them process it when it's convenient for THEM. read more

A young software developer moves into San Francisco's Marina District, and as he is schlepping his duffel into his bay view apartment he is hit by an onslaught of bad news from his roommates. "There's no Internet." "There's no TV." "There's no Cellphone service." Luckily, it's evening with no pressing obligations, and of all things, there is a mattress, so this budding youth decides to sleep on the issue. Awakened by the day, reality hits, as does the cloud of spring triggering allergies that have been dormant for what feels like decades. Desolate, disconnected, congested, only one entity provided light. That was this library. "Five stars," were the only words he could muster through the tears of bliss. read more

I love the library. When the library closed I shed a tear. Where will I get my book fix? The book store? Amazon? It isn't quite the same. When I saw that this branch had reopened, I burst into excitement. Yes, I have no life people. A girl outside said it best when she stated, 'Let's go read a book.' Oh what great children. After going inside, I thought, wow this place is hip and modern. There are a lot of computers around. However, it seemed like the space was not used that well. Everything was spread out and the shelves looked rather sparse. There didn't seem to be as much selection, despite the addition. I have to say, I rather preferred the old library to the redone one. I liked the magazine section, the cds which were easy to browse, and I liked the shelf with recent arrivals. I often perused this section and found some neat random books to read, books that I wouldn't have thought to purchase from a book store. The updated library shoved the magazine section into the back wall and put the recent arrivals on the far wall off to the side. Not inviting. Oh library curator, let this be a lesson in space planning. While the old library wasn't quite as modern, I think its use of space was more innovative. If I had designed this space I would've done differently. Read, an open communal area for socializing or reading, rather than computers being the focus. Care and attention to where the books should be placed. A library is such an important community space, not to be neglected. A redo is an opportunity to make a statement, something that should be well thought out. One bonus, the express self checkout kiosks. read more

So this cuts down my spending on books, which is great. They can get any book you need that the city library carries, also great. However... The homeless people who park it here make it less than superb. The staff is okay, they put on great free playtime/story/sing along for little kids. read more

Why spend $25 on something when you don't have to? Because I'm lazy and I'm not very good with money. I had a copy of the 2010 edition of Eyewitness to Ireland in my hand all ready to purchase when my friend "K" starts to scream. "WHAT ARE YOU DOING????" me. "umm, what, I am buying a book for my trip" "NOOOOOOOOOOOOO, YOU CAN BORROW IT FOR FREE AT THE LIBRARY!!!!!" She then proceeds to rip the book from my cold dead hands. And we are out of there minus my book. I take her advice and head down to the Burlingame Library but am unlucky in love as they do not have the Eyewitness guide. I go outside and call my friend 'K" and tell her that the book isnt there and I am heading straight to a bookstore and buy it. She early jumps though my phone and tells me not to. A few days pass and I am in the Marina and walk into the Library there and I find my book! Woo hoo! However I am not a SF resident and cannot check out my book. DOH! Who do I know who lives in the area and can grab this for me? hmmmm LIGHTBULB! "K"! An hour later we sitting in her apartment with wine in hand and reading my newly borrowed Eyewitness Guide to Ireland. Since I'm heading to Ireland and the luck the Irish should have rubbed off on me I am going to take the $25 I saved and buy lottery tickets! read more

Happy about the renovation - lot of natural light, comfortable armchairs, and electrical outlets for laptops. Less one star for the brigade of kids and nannies singing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" in the children's section. Loud. I know it's un-PC to rant about this... but it's a library, not a pre-school. One star less for the very limited selection, especially in the DVD section. Do you really need three copies of KINDERGARTEN COP? (An exaggeration, but you get the point.) More Criterion stuff please! Oddly, the offerings at the North Beach Branch (more like Chinatown with the number of Asian/Chinese patrons) are more interesting and just... more. Another star less for the constant "missing" items which I return through the drop box. I constantly have to drop by or call to try to rectify the situation. Nice people at the counter "note" the errors but it's just a matter of time before I get stuck with a bill for an "unreturned" item. I am told that it's better to return items to a live and breathing librarian and get a receipt. But that begs the question: then why have a drop slot INSIDE the library? Someone's slacking behind that drop slot. But all that aside - it's a pleasant place to catch up on magazines and newspapers and to pick up stuff you've reserved online. read more

I love love LOVE the SF library system. This branch is particularly nice and the employees are really helpful. I checked out some books and went out of town for several weeks. I planned on renewing my books, but I realized I had left my library card at home. I couldn't renew my books online since I didn't have my library card number with me. I called the Marina branch and told them my situation. The lady that answered the phone helped me by going into the computer system and setting the renew date for after I would be back in town. I found this to be above and beyond my expectations. I was only hoping she could tell me what my card number was, so for her to go ahead and renew them for me was really helpful. On another occasion, I had returned some books, but then the next day my account showed a late fee. I called the branch and told them which drop slot I had returned my books into, they looked and found them, then removed the charges for me. Kudos for great customer service. I also like the layout of this branch. There is a lot of natural light, so even though it's kind of small, it doesn't feel cramped. They also have a nice selection of periodicals. read more

Understood there are limiting factors for a public facility in making changes to infrastructure; however this library is in dire need of an overhaul. Seating, and electrical outlets for laptops are far too limited, and at times the library feels like a homeless shelter. Again, not the fault of the library staff per se, but the community could use a reasonable facility to check books and conduct research. read more

Marina Branch Library - Libraries Near Me - San Francisco, California

I need to study a lot. Well I got tired of spending money on coffee at cafes where all I needed was a table away from home. So I found myself at this branch on (I would add) a beautiful, sunny Saturday to read books and take exams. Despite the teasing weather, I found this to be a great study environment. The large windows permit a great deal of natural light and the artificial lighting keeps everything else well lit. Lots of open space, pleasant staff, and a general agreement to be quiet make this an ideal study spot. Oh, and did I mention FREE WIFI? Hot dog, Mayor Newsom. Maybe it wasn't you who put this in, but if you did, keep it up. That and the electrical outlets at each table - bravo. I'll definitely be back here often to study. read more

Really I'm just so very impressed by the SF public library system. Look for a book online, request it, wait for it to be delivered to your favorite branch.. and VOOWALAA! I walk in, pick up the book, beep beep at the automatic check out and I'm done! so easy and free! This branch is one of the nicer ones, being newly remodeled. I'm a big fan of the public library! read more

I decided I was spending too much $ on buying new books and only reading it once (then it collects dust on my shelf) so I went and got a new library card. That was an interesting experience - reason for why it's not a 5 star review. When I turned in my application the librarian asked for my driver license. When he noticed that it had a Fremont address he said sorry but I have to give you a restricted card until you bring me a mail that show you have a local SF addres - what? I was only allowed to check out ONE book at a time because of this! hhahahhaa too funny ... felt like I was put on probation. Like what are they worry about - that non-SF residents was going to rent ALL the books away from SF residents. Since that funny ordeal and becoming a "normal" card holder, I have enjoyed my visits to the library - esp. this branch. It's quiet, clean, and they have extremely helpful & smiling librarians. Also library has definitely entered the "online access" world - you can search for books and if they aren't available at your branch but is at another one you can transfer the book to your branch. You can also search for books and reserve it so that when you get to the library it's already put aside just for you = time saving! You can also rent videos or reserve time to use the computer (internet). People library is the "IN" thing to do now... get to it. *wink read more

This branch reopens August 4Th. Much awaited. They've done so much work to this library. It used to be old, stale, and like my elementary school's collection. Now it look new and modern, yet still retroish. I hope the collections have been updated too. It's such a small branch that most books must be requested from elsewhere. Well, at least it's a new sight to see, and all in all, a great addition. The new benches on the outside are inviting. It'll be nice to have the library back =) read more

Marina Branch Library - Libraries Near Me - San Francisco, California

I know the Internet has changed all of our lives , esp. the way we research. But, in my opinion, the library is a fantastic resource and the librarians love to be challenged with projects to research. I love coming to this branch. Not only does the existence of the library get me out of the house but it always serves as an invaluable place to read and learn. Stop using only Google, make it a point to come to the library. You will be pleased you did. read more

Good selection (you can also request books/DVDs from ANY SF Public Library location), very clean, and *super* staff. They are all friendly and overarchingly helpful. Efficient sign-up system for computers, and decent "clientele," barring the annoying talkers (I don't mean asking a question or having a short conversation - I mean those who choose not to shut up for extended time, or, ever). Earplugs only block out so much. If you want to have an inane conversation with your ugly girlfriend, go outside or take her to KFC. If you want to sponsor an ESL tutoring session, do it at your place, where you can enunciate loud instructions to your heart's content. Other than that, I give this great SF public resource a hushed "Woo-woo!" read more

Their Pages do a fantastic job keeping this place well-kept and organized (+5 stars) Aside from the rating, I feel somewhat uncomfortable being in close perimeters with men watching porn on the public computers (where there are children around and a playground in close view). In my opinion, if that's something you like to do, it seems like something you should do in the privacy of your own home. read more

One of my favourite libraries for children, but I do have a few. There are toys within the library, as well as a huge playground outside to occupy the kiddo, which gives the parent ample time to hunt down good children books. I was always able to find a book I liked from here, while sometimes I was more hard-pressed to do so at other libraries. read more

So I get made fun of constantly for having a not so subtle love affair with the Marina. Do I live there? No. Do I want to live there? Er, maybe. For all the stereotypes of the Marina (99% being true), it is still one of the cleanest, nicest parts of the City with equal amounts of food, drink and shop amenities. All that leading to this Yelp... even the damn public library in the 'hood is nicer!!! While on my quest to find the ultimate study venue, I gave up on cafes because they were getting pricey and are generally a little too loud for my type of study habits (the type where you zone out, eavesdrop on conversations and focus on all things beyond your study materials). So I opted to go old school and hit up the library. Off the bat, this is the cleanest damn library I've ever seen. It's also very hooked up with laptop plugs, WIFI connections, comfy seating and ample desk space. There's a ton of sunlight and for the most part, people are really quite here. It being a public library, you do get some interesting characters and the occasional bum checking their email accounts, but bust out a nose plug and you're good to go. The only annoying factor is that between the hours of 3-6, you get those damn middle school kids flooding in through the doors and they are obnoxious as hell. A quick grunt and a glare of "i'll beat the s**t out of you if you don't shut the F* up" and you're golden. The library hours are a little odd and save a few days, it closes at 6pm so might be difficult for those in the working world to get some study time in. In all, the place is great and I'm glad my city tax dollars paid for something functional! Now if only the NB library could get a make over. read more

I just realized on the SFPL website that you can create "lists" of books you want to read, so that solves the problem of having a lot of books to read, but not enough time to reserve all at once and have the request expire. Yay! read more

I love this location. I live close to the Civic Center one but I refuse to go there. So sad. Thank you for keeping this location safe and friendly. read more

A bit smaller than the one I grew up with, but it's definitely nicer, and more spacious. But what happened to all the books? It seems they have been replaced with computers. Hmmm.. although I still love the crackling sounds of the plastic covers on the books! Brings back memories. Also, on Monday mornings, my cousin and I take her little guy to story time, which is usually outside by the playground. It's soooo cute! All the little babies singing with their moms, babysitters, even DADS! read more

Great neighborhood library! Wish it could stay open a little bit longer on some nights. I highly recommend going here as there are little Rec parks nearby and it's close to chesnut read more

Light, airy, clean. Helpful staff. Decent selection of books for a branch library. Comfortable chairs. It's a well-used branch and I'm glad that they reopened! read more

I totally agree with Alan M. I like to work out of the Public Libraries as I find I work better there than I do at home (too many distractions, no a/c when it gets hot in the summer. Was meeting a friend for lunch in the Marina, so decided to work out of the Marina Branch. Clean. Sure. Well lite. Sure. Nice neighborhood. Ditto. But the noise from toddlers inside and crying babies outside nearly drove me nuts. Like Alan stated, it's a LIBRARY not a pre-school or day care. The Librarians don't seem to be bothered which leads me to believe that at one point or another, a "hushed" uber-Marina-Mommy went balistic and accused the librarian of damaging her childs chances at getting into a top tier kindergarten and day school as a result of the Librarian's interruption of her childs "development". So, back to Glen Park. read more

I'm from LA & still new to the Marina. A month or so, I ran into the Marina Branch Library and I got a BIG surprise, I could get a library card even if I'm not a SF resident( u only need to be a CA resident and it's FREE), thanks to the staffs there. The staffs were very informative, explaining precisely about what was needed to get the card. I was so excited and with my new card, I checked a lot great DVDS and books. I would say they have some really great and helpful staffs there. Wonderful and bright open floor windows. There's great signage where you could find where things are easily. I've been using this library ever since. But if you need a place to study, I wouldn't recommend it since you won't get a seat if you don't get there early or if you need complete quiet because it is an opened area for everyone. Oh, did I mention that there's free wireless? See, I told you, the staff are great, they provided a lot of info, all you need is ask, and guess what, it even work outside the library!!!!!So if you don't want to go in or they are closed, use it outside!!!!! I feel fortunate to be able to use the wonderful free service at the Marina Library especially, in this type of bad economy where all the state funding are cutting here and there on free or nonprofit org. serv. read more

I enjoy this branch of the San Francisco Public Library system primarily because the staff are simply so friendly. It feels more like a small-town library than a giant city library (a good thing). The librarians are so helpful, patient and kind and the circulation folks are also generally pleasant. This branch doesn't always have the book I want, but I prefer this branch to some of the less aesthetically pleasing and busier branches. I love that I can usually find a place to sit here if I'm staying awhile and that I can get in and out rather quickly if I'm in a rush. The children's section is truly the highlight of this branch--such a great place to take the kids to discover books! They make it easy to sit and read with a bright designated area just for the little ones. They have SO many great children's books and we typically find what we are looking for as pertains to the kids! Note: there is also a small, but fun, playground right outside the library which makes this the perfect place to take the kids for the afternoon. They do have funky hours, so be sure to check before you go! The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars instead of 5 is that their selection of adult books is pretty slim. However, with the transfer system, it IS quite simple to get books sent to the Marina branch. But sometimes I'd love to walk in and walk out with the book of interest. read more

Hey it's a library not Notre Dame, it's on the small side. Definitely heavily populated with a lot of men, several that carry their belongings with them. Lots of computers and Tweens playing minecraft. read more