If ever in the Playa Vista section of West LA, this library should be a must stop. Came in for the first time in many months and needed a an emergency scan done asap. Mind you, I haven't been here in at least a good 6 months, and was worried that at this time of the evening I wouldn't have anybody to help me out. That's when CSA, or customer service All Star Pru came through. Pru patiently took her time and energy to show me the ropes, and how to most efficiently use the scanning options available to patrons. Despite the fact that she was definitely in demand, she came through in the clutch. Thanks Playa Vista Library and thanks Pru! read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Found a spot in a cozy corner with a sunny window in this quiet library. There were power outlets near some tables which powered my super old laptop. Free n95 masks and covid tests available. There was a $1 book and media sale. There's a small parking lot that was almost full but thankfully snagged a spot. Street parking was available as well. read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - Cookie monster book return inside - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Pros: The library is generally quiet. There are no homeless individuals around the library area. Cons: Most of the staff are very friendly, except for one person who assists with book checkouts -- he can be unfriendly toward some patrons. While I haven't personally experienced this (I'm Caucasian), I've noticed that he tends to be rude to Asian visitors. read more

I expected a bit more because of the neighbourhood this library is located in, but it is a quaint little library. It has things like printing, computers and of course nice books to read. It was quiet and serene inside. I didn't see any charging stations for devices like some other libraries have but they do have free COVID tests if you need some. read more

This Playa Vista hideaway is hard to find but very much worth it mostly for its quiet library, charming local eateries and soaring seagulls.

I had the pleasure of visiting this branch today. We came in for some solar eclipse glasses and stayed a while. I will say, the area is really nice and there's lots of parks and areas for the children to run around nearby. My kiddos are little so sometimes I need to get their wiggles out before taking them into the library so they're chill so the nearby parks are such a plus. There seems to be ample parking although today it was packed because of the glasses giveaway. It's definitely a smaller library but it's cost and clean and quiet and the staff is SO lovely. I will be frequenting this location more often just to switch it up. Looking forward to more visits. read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - Waiting for the solar eclipse glasses. - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Unfortunately I had to stop going to the Westchester library because the smell of the homeless was making me almost pass out. I switched my services to the Playa Vista branch and I'm so happy. Everything is on time, the staff is very friendly, it's clean and neat and smells great . Plenty of free parking. read more

Great library but their restroom counter is cringing and disgusting for such an upscale and nice neighborhood. I am writing this review in hopes that they replace that cringy looking counter. The rest of the library is so neat and nice and the staff are knowledgeable, professional and helpful read more

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This is my go to library in the Los Angeles system. It's the only one if found that is actually clean and does not smell. They have books of all ages and genres on sale for cheap out front. As well as a few programs for kids. I always see families when I come here- there's no hobos lying around either. The staff is very friendly and has helped with any problem I've had no questions asked. Unfortunately because it's so small, they don't have most titles. But you can easily order it online and pick up here. Usually arrives in at the most three days. They have there own parking lot and that makes it easy to stop in. I'm usually here for minutes, returning books and picking up new. Very happy with this library. read more

Great library located in Playa Vista. (Playa Vista is kind of in between Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey) The staff are all very nice.... especially Veronica. (She remembers almost everyone). I like how there usually isn't a lot of people here.. and that it's close by where I live. There is always plenty of parking in their lot and on the street. The library is kind of new.. it was built in 2004. There are about a dozen or so computers available for use... and two 15-minute use computers near the entrance. They have a VERY small section for Spanish and Chinese books. I don't think I saw a Large Text section. They carry old classic movies as well as new movies that just came out to DVD.. as well as everything in between. If you look at there pictures.. there is plenty of space to sit down and study.. or fall asleep. Also.. the library usually has a lot of events/classes going on such as learning fishing techniques, resume writing, knitting, book clubs, philosophy cafes, and storytelling. read more

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The best thing about this library is the used book sale, lots of great books from all genres, ideal for the literary enthusiasts looking for a great read, or to expand your personal library collection. This library is also nice for teens, and for parents who wish to engage their little ones in books. There is a teen section and a children's section. Now, the downside to this is, if you are an adult looking to get some work done in what you would assume to be a quiet space...guess again. Unfortunately, the children's section makes this library extremely noisy most of the time. Since this is a tiny library, there is no place one can go to escape the distracting chaos coming from the children's section that frequently fills the entire library in surround sound. So be prepared, and consider bringing some headphones (music) or ear plugs. This library is also VERY limited in the books it carries. I almost always have to request books to be sent here from other locations. However, they offer a great selection of cook books, including plenty of vegetarian, vegan, raw vegan, salad, and soup books. I can always find what I am looking for in this category. Overall, I would say this library is okay, but is probably best suited for children and teens. 103/100 read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - Children's corner - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Excellent local, neighborhood library with an inviting children's section. Awesome selection and very helpful staff. I just hope this branch doesn't turn into a homeless hangout. read more

A small library but always pleasant to go into and pick up my holds. The librarians are always pleasant and helpful. I've never had trouble finding parking in their lot out front. read more

This library is not that easy to find the first time. However, the librarian and staff seem nice. They appear to understand that if you telephone to inquire about more specific directions, after my GPS originally sent me to a different library in Playa Vista. This library has a pleasant parking lot. The kids' section looks imaginative and picturesque. As I have visited so far, the library is quiet. This might be because it is tucked away and not that easily visible from the road so I am unsure how many know about it. read more

Small, quaint, lots of kids. A "storytelling" room and a "teens" room. Super adorable. The lady at the front desk talked audibly the entire time with some guy. I could hear the entire conversation unfortunately lol but it didn't really bother me. But if small background chitterchatter drives you crazy, this is definitely not be the spot for you. Otherwise great neighborhood, clean, no major complaints. read more

Nice small library tucked away around the corner from the Playa Vista Sports Park. Come here with my kids after I tire them out at the park. We come here and wind down afterwards and grab a couple of books. They have nice little sections specifically for the little kids and teens which makes it nice. read more

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Snapshot: If noise does not bother you and you love the AC cranked up, this is the place for you to study. Overview: -Geared towards students, not a scholarly library by any means, wish it had a better selection of books (good for casual studying, if such a thing exists, not the place to come if you have a paper due the next day) -TONS of SAT, AP, ACT, and College Prep. books. Mostly older editions but the info. is still the same -Small library, small book selection -Good for DVD rentals (the most popular part of the library) -AC heaven! -Loud...(I cannot stress this enough, see Storytelling Room for details) -Free Wi-Fi: no password, don't need a library card -Weird hours: always check before you go -Near Coffee Bean, Pinkberry, and Yummy.com (a little market) within reasonable walking distance -Feels safe and clean FEATURES: The AC: The air conditioning is on full blast which is fantastic for summer but bring a sweatshirt, even if you don't wear it, it always makes for a nice pillow during study breaks. The library is pretty small but there's usually a couple of tables open; early afternoon seems to be the busiest time. Wi-Fi: Free, no password, no account. Just click "agree" to the terms and conditions in your browser and you're good to go. The internet speed is quite nice, not lightening speed, but very good for a library. They also have several power outlets in the floor, but they're not under every table so first come first serve. If you don't have a laptop or smartphone, they have a few computers you can use. I haven't used them but people seem to just walk right up and start using them so I don't think you need a password or permission to use them. DVD Rental: 2 day DVD rental with a $1 late fee for each day: Pretty good DVD selection for a library...they had Perks of Being a Wallflower, Pitch Perfect, and many other popular movies. I can't tell you how many people come in just for the DVD's, it's like Blockbuster up in there. ATMOSPHERE: The people: Most of the people here during the summer are either chilling on their computers or browsing the DVD selection. I hardly see anyone coming in for a book or to study, I don't blame them though the book selection is sub-par. I feel like there are hardly any books here compared to other libraries, sometimes I even forget that it's a library if I'm not going there to look for a book. The staff: Some of the staff are very nice and helpful. Others...not so much. It just depends on who's working. Some of them are really chatty and will talk at normal voice levels to customers (not even about books or anything library related!!) without even suggesting talking in the lobby or outside. This goes to show the kind of culture here- forget the "silence is golden" rule at this branch. There are a few volunteer students that come in to organize books/DVD's and they are very good at keeping the library organized, they will reorganize something right after a messy person leaves a shelf. The Student Center: The student center is a nice nook to study in for K-12 students. It's almost like having your own room except for the people who come in to look at the DVD and CD shelf. There are only two or three tables in there though with four seats each so get there early. They also have two comfortable lounge type chairs in the back and some magazines to read during study breaks. They also have a manga stand with comic books. The rest of the walls are lined with mostly teen fiction, oh boy...more vampires. You also have to ask to use the computers in there apparently but there's free WiFi. Note: this room is much darker than the main library room which has plenty of natural lighting. Storytelling Room: (Warning: VERY, very loud.) They have tons of toys in there but that turned the place into a playground. The librarians do not shush anyone and the storytelling room sounds like a daycare center- kids screaming, parents talking at full volume....highly inappropriate for a library setting. You can literally hear every word that comes out of that room because unfortunately the room doesn't have any doors- a much needed feature in my opinion. Warning to others: Never come when there is story-time and you need to do some serious studying. There must have been 10-20 kids crying and screaming their head off for a good ten minutes before the story started. I was across the library and I could hear all this. One time I even saw this kid riding around on his tricycle, I kid you not. Despite all of this, this library ends up being a very productive work environment, I can usually get about 3-4 hours of pure studying in as long as my headphones are in. I would like to thank the air conditioner for keeping my mind fresh and alert. read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - New hours! Starting October 15, 2012. - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Relatively new but the stuff here is bad. They hate people. The experience is like a DMV. Also, because the main focus of this library is children, this place could be really loud!!!!!!!!! and it's your fault if you can't tolerate. So I pick up/drop books but do not stay here more than 10 min here. read more

I'm a single college gal living by herself with a cat. It would only make sense that I would absolutely love libraries and I LOVE this library. I think Playa Vista is great: it's safe and clean and pretty but me thinks there are only so many times a twenty something gal can gorge herself on the pinkberry three blocks down without wondering what exceeds in this little village beyond the horizon of frozen yogurt and that may or may not be the catalyst that helped me discover this library. Anyways, on to the library without renouncing my super single white girl status. Like I said, this library is great in a smorgasbord of ways. Although the selection is not huge the offerings are current enough to find Something interesting. The DVD selection is unbelievable and undoubtedly a cornerstone of the library ( is that awful that I say that about a library? You know, a place for books?). I've also noticed that about half the library is dedicated to children's and teen books which is awesome if you have kids but not so awesome if you have cats that don't really like reading too much. The ambiance is a solid five. The library is quiet, clean and there are always plenty of comfy looking places to rest your bum. I am however, an LMU student and Ive never studied here given the fabulous library on campus but if I didn't have that resource I'd definitely be spending a lot more time here. While I've occasionally observed a few particularly freaky types there I suppose that's to be expected because Southern California is a pretty freaky place with some pretty freaky people ( hello Venice!) and it's little more than a dull roar. Although I hesitate to say this because I'm selfish and want this gem to myself, I'd highly suggest you swing by the Playa Vista Public library for a quick peek. You won't be disappointed. pros: great selection, quiet, free wifi, parking is generally easy cons: small, many more specific books need to be transferred, irregular weekday hours ( always double check. The opening times of the library are not consistent throughout the week) read more

Rarely have I ever been met with any friendliness by the staff. You'll be lucky to even get a smile out of them. The library itself is moderately small, with a limited selection. It's relatively quiet and nice to read at, but I always leave off put by the employees there. read more

Hey Whoever Is Managing the Playa Vista Library: Welcome to the 21st century. Get yourself current with modern technology. You're an establishment that promotes learning; you should set higher standards for yourself. This is my local library, so this is where I go to pick up books that I've reserved online. Today, as I've done several times in the past, I dropped off a large stack of books that I've donated to them. The librarian doesn't even crack a smile and a "Thank you!" She managed a monotone "thank you" when I verbally prodded her. I explained to her that there was an issue with the main Los Angeles website in that when entering the zip for Playa Vista in the search tool is used to find a local library within the system, it takes you on the map to Lawndale, with no library available. I thought that she should know. I asked about their calendar of events for adults. I did this about 6 months ago, as well, and got the same answer -- so in about six months time, they have done nothing to improve. The woman at the front desk advised me to pick up a paper copy of the schedule at the librarian's table. I responded, "Well, the schedule is online, as well, is it not?" The answer given to me was just like the answer about a half a year ago: "It's not usually updated online. The photocopy sheet over there is the most current." A final suggestion: I've read on their handout at the library (because it's not very well updated online) that there are some pretty cool learning workshops for kids, such as programming. Would you consider holding such workshops for adults, as well? read more

Ultra quiet and ultra hidden yes this place is a little known secret in the Marina del Rey and Westchester area. The library was built at around the time the whole Playa Vista community was being opened so it is about 6 years old. It is very clean and very open inside. Aisles are roomy and the large windows bring in plenty of sunshine to brighten up the place. There is also a community room available for use. There is a separate room for the young adults which has a decent selection of graphic novels, manga, and magazines. The computers are well maintained and almost one is available for use. Most importantly, at least for me, is the quality of the patrons. No transients, no shady child molester types, and no unruly children. Playa Vista security is always on patrol on bikes and on electric vehicles in the neighborhood and they do a decent job of keeping transients out. There is a lot to park in and street parking is plentiful. Done with your visit to the library? Take a stroll through the quiet neighborhood and visit the businesses down the street. I do expect the number of patrons to increase once the Playa Vista elementary school opens. read more

This is probably my favorite place in Los Angeles besides the beach. The librarian is amazing and very helpful. The library host Various events for the community which include but not limited to yoga classes! Please continue to support your local library with donations of all kinds. Thank you! read more

Their hours are crazy, there's alot of strict policies regarding internet time and such. I'm not particularly fond of this library and don't come by as often as I used to, but I have to give them credit for 2 things: 1. They have great books/resources. Check. 2. They only charged me 20 bucks after I accidently got a little sick on some of the books I was borrowing...TMI I know. xP Since they were able to survive the last part, I automatically give them 5 stars read more

Unless you're familiar with the neighborhood, it's definitely 'off the beaten path', but highly accessible if you're close to the Loyola/Westchester and Venice branches. One of the newer branches, this one has a separate section for TV DVDs (i.e. apart from movie and documentary DVDs). I've never seen this branch crowded and only one time (in my experience) has it been noisy (some mother who was unable to keep her kid quiet). Although the little parking lot is often full, street parking is easy. read more

This is a nice and newer library. They are medium size with decen t selection of books, kids stuff and dvds. They have several different areas for differnt age groups, a conference room and comfortable chairs to read in. Staff here is mostly very friendlt, helpful and professional. There is one lady that's a little less than that, but not problematic. The parking lot can get full, the hours are weird, but that's the city's fault. If you use the online catalod system you can have any book delivered to your chosen library which gets pretty close to feeling like Amazon.com it's so conveinent. read more

A very good libary for all ages. They have friendly, knowledgable staff and a good selection of videos, audiobooks, CD's, and books. They often have books for sale, too. read more

My kids love to visit the library after every visit to playa vista park. It's always a good time reading books in the quite children's section. read more

Playa Vista Branch Library - Libraries Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Others have mentioned it, but it's worth repeating that this place is like the Secret Garden - you may find yourself walking around wondering if everyone was abducted by aliens because there isn't a soul around. It's like the whole area is a library and someone's going to jump out of the bushes and shush you if you make too much noise. Anyway, I love this particular branch because of the fairly large selection of DVDs, along with all those books. Oh yeah, and they have WIFI :D read more

I enjoy the library however. DO NOT return your items to the drop box ! They will not check them in promptly and they will rack up late fees against you! This has happened to me twice!!! read more

I LOVE IT !!! THE BEST PLACE TO GO TO USE THE INTERNET.. KIDS RULE ON THIS LIBRARY... YESSSS MY LITTLE DAUGHTER LOVE'S IT .... it is perfect the way it is... (they have the best dvd section ever) THE PERSONAL IS OK.... read more

I love libraries, however, this one isn't so great. I say that simply because of two of the staff members whom I've encountered on several occasions. These two women act as if they do not want to be there. They are not friendly nor do they have a professional attitude. I really wonder how they ever got hired. Such a shame. I hate going in there, but it's the closet one to me. But I did receive a pleasant surprise today. The woman at the counter when I checked out was someone totally different. She was beyond pleasant and friendly. Thank goodness!!! She should be cloned. read more

The stars are for the ample electric outlets and tables. However, this is the LOUDEST library I have ever been to in my entire life. It seems that the children's areas are spread across the library and apparently no one is interested in teaching kids how to properly behave at a library. Both parents and children spoke in normal conversational volume rather than whispering. read more

From the snarling woman at the front desk, to the two angry appearing women, and one male librarian, this was an incredibly disappointing experience. The layout of this library is strange, with visitors on computers, sitting in close proximity to the children's playroom and library. They have puppets for the kids to play with, but tell them to not make a sound because people are on computers. It doesn't make sense. The children's section is an open space for children, with no doors or separation, thus no separation between children, and adults. I'm a grandmother who visited this library with a two year old. When she became excited about something, she yelled out, and the male librarian rushed over and said in a very condescending manner that, "If you can't quiet her, you'll have to leave." My granddaughter wasn't creating a scene, nor running around, just being a two year old in the children's section. This was said loudly and publicly, and IN the children's section. I was appalled. This is a public library, and I live nearby, so I do intend to return with my granddaughter, but not without misgivings. I give this library three stars for the children's selections, but minus stars for the staff. read more

This is a nice, small library located in the heart of Playa Vista. While the selection is limited, the place is pretty quiet and mellow like a library should be. I grabbed a hard-to-find audiobook here (after I couldn't find it on Amazon). Parking is easy, and the exterior of the library and the surrounding Playa Vista were both beautiful. read more

Please do something about the AC. It's cold as fuck in here. I get it if it's hot during the day, but if it's night time and 65 outside, turn that shit off. read more

Another excellent LA county library!! They have a great music cd selection along with all the usual items in a library (books on tape, books, magazines, movies) and the librarians are very helpful and friendly. Parking in their lot can be tight but there's free street parking close by. I recommend this branch highly. read more

The staff at both the front desk and the information desk were incredibly rude. Worse yet, there was a mentally handicapped woman there wanting help with her library card, and the way the information desk condescendingly shoo'd away the woman was disgusting to witness. Looking back, I'm ashamed of myself for not saying anything at the time. Giving 2 stars because the selection and parking were the only redeeming characteristics. read more

This is a cute, small library located in PV. There's easy parking and hours are pretty good (open till 8:00 M-F). It's a small library, so there isn't a very big selection. However, it's really clean for a LAPL, which is why I'm giving the library 4 stars. I went in at 6:00 pm and it was quiet- there were no kids. The level of noise probably depends on the time of day. read more

I dropped off books in the drop off box at night. I saw the bright orange book drop from my hand down the drop-off shoot. The people at the library must have made a mistake with checking in the books or it's possible one of the staff members took it or misplaced it. The library tries to make you pay for their mistakes. Not gonna happen. I will argue this to the grave as I refuse to pay for their mistakes. I've had a great track record with the lapl for over 12 years. It's not my mistake, it's theres. What imbeciles! read more