*No Ordinary Library* We live in Rancho Mirage and experienced a major power outage that disrupted our service for multiple days. In the morning, prior to knowing the official extent and estimated length of the outage, wifey & I came here to charge devices, do some work via WiFi, and stay cool on a 100+ degrees day. Everyone here made us feel welcome and were very understanding of our situation. It's a beautiful and spacious library -- inside & out. There's a bunch of different sections to sit depending on your mood. There's also an outdoor patio that came in handy to warm up every now & then because the AC inside is extremely frosty. Instead of venturing out for lunch in the afternoon, we decided to stay here and share a sandwich at the Aspen Mills Cafe. We went with the Aspen: Tender oven-roasted turkey breast, cucumber, red onion, lettuce, avocado, horseradish, and light mayonnaise on cranberry spice bread. Side of potato salad and pickle. $13.95 If that sounds good to you? It tasted even better. All natural, fresh and filling. Marcela was manning the cafe. She's friendly and makes a mean tasty sandwich. Afterwards we both signed up for Rancho Mirage Library Cards. It's free for residents and doesn't expire for 2 years. Tho the power outage brought us here this time, we'll be back one day to enjoy the library even more. read more

We came for the STRONG WORDS show. What a place! You can tell they are well funded. The event was free for members. I'll be back for more events. read more

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory - Libraries Near Me - Rancho Mirage, California

Entitled and pretentious staff that love to micromange patrons that aren't rich. They are truly= dogshit!

We visited the Rancho Mirage Observatory for OPENight, which happened to fall on International Observe the Moon Night, and it was extra special since the moon was full! The experience was absolutely fascinating. We got to look through the telescopes and see incredible lunar details up close. It's amazing looking at the craters with such magnification. A huge shout-out to the volunteers who made the evening so enjoyable -- they were informative, kind, helpful, and fun, answering all our questions and sharing their knowledge enthusiastically. You could really tell they love what they do. Such a unique and memorable experience, we'll definitely be back next time we're in the area!! read more

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I am a huge fan of public libraries, and this one ranks among the very best that I have patronized, both as a member and as an out-of-town guest. It has so much to offer, in. Addition to books. To begin with, there are many nooks and reading rooms, some with super plush chairs, almost inviting one to nap a bit. There are conference facilities, including space for talks and lectures and one smaller area with a lengthy table for meetings of all sorts. There's a resale shop, appropriately called the Book Nook, a snack bar, water fountains, clean restrooms, and a regular calendar of events for people of all tastes and ages. Parking is ample and there are adequate handicap parking spaces. read more

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory - Libraries Near Me - Rancho Mirage, California

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Heading to library for an event. Which are amazing! This week they hosted music, astronomy, and a talk today about a stalking wild animal! This couldn't be more fun! A must for everyone!!!!!! read more

This is the coolest (and probably best funded) library I've ever been to. I make it a point to stop in when I visit the area. Inside the building is a cafe that also sells fresh loaves of bread, an incredible used bookstore, and a huge saltwater aquarium, to name a few things. If I lived in the area, I'd hang out here regularly, as there are lots of varied seating options (including outdoors), a humongous collection of DVDs and CDs, and 5-star programming, including concerts and free art workshops for all ages. There is also the Observatory. What a fabulous feature for a library. I attended one of their regular free OPENights and loved it. Be aware that it is an observatory (= small) and not a whole planetarium. At the OPENight, I'm glad I used the restroom before arriving, because you'll stand in line outside (bring a jacket!) waiting to be let into the observatory, as they only let a handful of people in at a time to look through the telescopes. The library is closed at that time, so no restroom access. The wait was around 40 min, but they post an astronomer out there who will talk about stars & stuff and answer any questions, so that was very entertaining. read more

This review is for OPENights, which we enjoyed very much. My boyfriend and I stayed in the area for a few days and going to this free event was a must for me. Astronomy has been a lifelong interest of mine (more so when I was a kid) and I hadn't looked through a telescope in a very long time. Being there was exciting for me and I loved that phones had to be put away. The docents and staff were pleasant and very informative. The red lighting was a such a cool vibe. We looked through four telescopes and observing the binary stars was my favorite for this visit. They had a sparkling jeweled look to them. It wasn't too busy when we went on a weekday night. We were part of the second group that went up the ramp after a short wait. Next time we're in town, we'll stop by during the day to take a tour of the observatory as well as enjoy the library. I'm sure we will attend OPENights again, too. read more

Beautiful library with clean and well kept book collection, beautiful art collection, little aquarium, plenty of printers, and next door to the observatory. There's a quiet study room and a coffee shop as well for those who want a good place to study. read more

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This is the best library I've ever been to. The staff is nice & welcoming, the spaces for patrons are top-tier, the events are award-winning, and they clearly make an effort to make everyone who walks in the front door feel comfortable being there. Their book drop has a conveyor belt, the info desk has a Chihuly exhibit, and the lobby has a little robot short-story machine. Plus, what local library has an Observatory attached to it? I haven't done a deep dive, but I'm guessing none. RMLO: a hidden jewel at the heart of the Coachella Valley. read more

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I typically will visit the main library of the city I'm visiting, but instead of going to the Palm Springs Library, I ventured down the road to Rancho Mirage. The Rancho Mirage Library is an absolute gem! From the moment you see it, you're struck by the stunning architecture--it's a beautifully designed space that is both modern and inviting. The library is incredibly spacious, allowing for a peaceful and comfortable experience whether you're reading, studying, or exploring its extensive collection. Everything is meticulously maintained, making it a clean and welcoming environment. There is also a used bookstore, a gem collection and a cafe inside. While I didn't visit the attached observatory, its presence adds a unique and exciting element to the library. This is truly a fantastic community resource and a wonderful place to spend time! read more

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MODERN AND BEAUTIFUL! My, am I a sucker for libraries, especially ones that have an observatory! It warms my soul to see the wonderful opportunities this library provides for children to explore the stars and enjoy wonderful books. The Rancho Mirage Library is quite big with dedicated sections for kids, teens, and adults. The library even has a CAFE! Yes, they serve warm coffee and yummy treats for a cozy reading session. I had the pleasure of visiting the library today as I'm a freelance writer and they had EXCELLENT WiFi and spaces for online work. There's plenty of comfy seats with cushions that make you melt into them. I felt totally zen and relaxed. I even had access to an outlet to plug my laptop! The library has clean restrooms, an outdoor courtyard, large category based sections of books, movies and large print works and a wonderful book nook. Also, there's a trendy art display that really sets the fun ambiance. The staff at the check-out desk were really polite and helpful! I'll definitely recommend this library! All people of all ages will enjoy this spot. I noticed they have great programs for kids! Note, since kids love this library I'd steer clear from the children's area as they get loud. Therefore, if there's a table near the area I wouldn't recommend sitting there. The good thing is there's plenty of other places to sit! What are you waiting for? Come for a visit! read more

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Ventured out from Riverside to find some peace. A great little library with many quiet study rooms. It is helpful to check with the info desk to reserve a private room. I made a mistake of not doing that but they were nice enough to let me stay since it was not busy. Lots of parking and there is a cafe inside. I'd definitely return in the future. read more

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory - I chose to sit in the back of the library facing one of the parking lots. Quiet and cool - just was I needed on this day - Libraries Near Me - Rancho Mirage, California

We came here excited and ready to show they kids the stars! Everyone was loving especially the guy who was talking today , I wish I got his name. Expect for one person who litteraly ruined our experience as soon as we got there . Right when we got there on the side walk Michael had a slightly rude comment to say to us; we ignored it and tried to enjoy the rest of the night. Minutes later he yelled at my one year old about playing around the bright red lights around there and he was just waiting as a old year one can. Tried to move past it just wanting to get inside as soon as we can. we go to the front of the line Michael tried to talk rudely to my 3 year old daughter about not touching the telescope saying" your old enough to understand, while pointing at her; shaking his head , in a rude voice and I stopped him saying no don't do that, I already talked to her. He cut me off and finished talking to my daughter. Mind you a kind man and lady already told us before him. If he came at my daughter nicely I would of let him finish a conversation with her. Than after that he tried to talk nicely . You don't talk to a kid who hasn't done anything wrong. Pointing at her as if she done something wrong. She a well behaved kid and he was rude for no reason to my daughter. Than he was saying Im mean like some uncle and trying to justify his behavior telling us a story about when he was younger. I will NOT ever come back with my babies. Michael need to learn how to talk nicely to people. read more

A fantastically researched and well-presented presentation, "Palm Springs, Tuned In," was given yesterday at the Library. We're a lucky community to have such interesting and thoughtful lectures available. The presenters, Jim Cook and Vinny Stoppia, are interesting, and whenever you see their names listed for speaking, go for it! Lots of work went into this lecture, including slides and movie clips. Their talk are well researched and always presented. read more

As someone who is a lifelong lover of libraries, an avid library card collector and a professional library, I was excited to visit this library since it is not only a beautiful, there is also an observatory located on the lbirary property. Upon entering the front of library, I was immediately attracted to their Book Nook bookstore as well as the their coffee bar which provides sandwiches as well as muffins, and loaves of bread for sale. As I walked further into the library, I enjoyed seeing a large children's room, a well organized space for newspapers and magazine, and a clearly defined quiet study room. Two cool items currently available for to check out are a telescope and state park passes. My favorite areas of the library included the various items on display including a multicolored ram, a collection of gemstones, the President Gerald Ford and Mrs. Betty Ford collection which contains items from their personal library and a bust of Gerald Ford, and a short story dispenser which allows you to press a button and recieve a short story or poem which options for children, adults, or in Spanish. After visiting the library, I was able to visit the observatory and was impressed by the amount of detail used in planning the space including having metal sheilds installed around the lights in the parking lot as a way to prevent excess lights from impacting views seen from the Observatory as well as having the type of building material used in proximity to the telescope. After visiting the library as well as seeing the large telescope in the Observatory, I can't wait to return to the library to check out the bookstore as well as bring my hubby to the one of their free observation public exploration night which allows the public to look through the big telescope as well as ask questions from astronomers and volunteer docents. read more

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I enjoy coming here but often I find it's more like a day care/preschool than a library. I think the concept of library has changed and absolutely some changes are for the better, some not. It's never quiet, kids are screaming, preschool groups are singing and clapping, people speak loudly. read more

Beautiful library and experience. Lots to learn about and cool setup. My favorite was the exquisite rock collection.

The evening observatory program was a highlight of our recent trip to Palm Desert. Make time for it if possible. The staff was knowledgeable and even sitting in line was fun since we got fun tidbits from them on the things we were going to look at, and their answers to questions ranging from educated adults to very small children were entertaining and educational. read more

This is hands down the best library in the Coachella Valley. The staff is polite and helpful. The events are interesting and exciting. The architecture is amazing. This is a hidden gem. read more

Probably the nicest library you'll go to! They have a cute section for kids only with a ton of different reading levels and activities. A great option for when it gets really hot outside in the desert heat read more

The Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory was the perfect ending after having a nice dinner in Palms Springs! Its about a 10-15 min drive from downtown and well worth the drive. They are not always open every weekend so give them a call to check out the schedule. The staff there are knowledgeable and friendly and will answer all your questions of what exactly you are looking at. Love how it's not crowded and lots of parking! We saw Orion, Jupiter with its moons and a butterfly galaxy! There are two parts to this tour: the main huge telescope and smaller telescopes on another deck... Highly recommend you check this place out! read more

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for those read books, enjoying reading books, the Rancho Mirage Library is severely lacking. a few staff members are excellent. and now , what was once a beautiful building, perhaps best design inside and out in entire desert, looks like a 7-11. read more

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory - Rancho Mirage Library with strip mall ambience. - Libraries Near Me - Rancho Mirage, California

It was my first time going the library I asked for a tour I like how there was an exhibit of the minerals i explored a touch screen it shows Space Mars Mercury if u sign up for the raffle u have to read a few books and you can win gifts like a beach bag it's also pre stuff my favorite one was Adult Lego and golfing read more

Every time we come to Palm Springs we come to the observatory. Staff is very knowledgeable and relaxed and their choices of viewing are always interesting! read more

I've taken my kids to the RML since they were little pop Tods in mid 2000s. They are now young adults. It's the best library in the desert! They offer great reading programs and lectures. It's a beautiful place to spend a short time or a good portion of your day. I now spend time there to study my new vocation at least twice per week. Especially when I need quiet time with no distractions. If you arrive early enough, you can grab a delicious sandwich at Aspen Mills bakery inside the library. They also offer sweet baked goods and bread in many flavors. Let's not forget the book nook bookstore! They always have a great selection of used books on the cheap! I have yet to check out the observatory. One of these nights! Anyway, you'll love this place. read more

We came here for the observatory tonight and it was amazing. Not only was it free but the knowledge they all have was pretty incredible. We took our kiddo who's obsessed with nebulas and got to see two of them plus Saturn, Venus, Jupiter, Uranus (fav planet since a baby), Orion's nebula was visible and so was an open double cluster. They are really great with kids there. We love the library too, but since we don't live close we don't get to go as much as we'd like to. read more

Or only is the library full of excellent resource, anyone with a CA drivers license can get a card for free. Aspen Mills, the local bakery, as a cafe with sandwiches and others baked goods inside. I tried the chicken Cesar salad and really liked it! All the library and cafe staff are nice read more

Rancho Mirage Library & Observatory - Libraries Near Me - Rancho Mirage, California

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As a freelance writer, I like to switch up my workspace every now and then. Love coming here to work. The atmosphere is quiet and clean with plenty of natural light. There are individual meeting rooms where I like to retreat if I'm working with another WFH friend. Nice being able to catch up while staying productive! Wi-Fi is reliable and fast, and there's ample parking as long as there isn't an event going on. I've been to other libraries in the valley and this is my favorite one! read more

Beautiful library--architecture of the building with high ceilings was beautiful. Loved the separate rooms--children's room, computer lab, quiet room, and main popular library area. The children's room had a separate play area with stuffed animals, puzzles, toys, and art. The library had a display case with gems. The front desk had a tubful of yoyos for free for kids. The library was even selling $t10 tickets to get appetizers for $4 at select restaurants as a fundraiser. We also got a free tour of the observatory (held at 9am and 3pm Tues thru Sat). It was just the 3 of us with Dennis, our docent, who took us inside to see the observatory, showed us the microscope, and told us about its history and facts. I can see why this place got upstanding reviews on TripAdvisor! read more

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Spacious, well lit, and very comfortable for people. It also has a mini cafe which is very good! I love coming to this library! read more

Today was my first time visiting this library even though I'm a longtime-local. It was Super Tuesday so there was a bunch of foot traffic coming in to vote. The library was still peaceful and quiet, given how spacious it is. The Aspen Mills Cafe inside is a nice space, with yummy sandwiches and baked goods. Staff was helpful, other visitors were respectful, and I look forward to coming back to explore all of the library's offerings, including the observatory. read more

They were trying to offer me viagra pills at this location. I guess they brought them in across the border. It wasn't right for them to offer that to me or my friends. I have a lot of concerns with the drugs that the staff members use at this library. It is entirely unacceptable. Again they did try and sell me viagra pills to me and my friends. I was in the bathroom when they did walk in and attempt to sell me viagra pills. read more

So... I didn't actually go to the library... Next door is the Rancho Mirage Observatory, they share a parking lot. The library looks new and very nice. The observatory has different nights that you can come and look out the big telescope for free- check it out! read more

The Rancho Mirage public library is a great resource location for personal,family,business and academic applications. It is a very comfortable environment for studying and research and is a very family friendly. Plenty of study and seating available with plenty of free parking as well. read more

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I love libraries, and this is one of my favorites. Mega abundance of natural light. Airy layout with desert landscape outside the many windows. Wonderful collection of books. Events year-round, including an annual used book sale that is not to be missed. Used book sales/stores are my addiction ....) If you're in the area with time to kill and also love libraries, take a few minutes to stop in this one. Hope you'll love it just as much as I do. (Can't believe I outed myself as a library nerd as well as my addiction. UGH.) read more

Really friendly staff. As a retired librarian, it is a calling to check out libraries wherever travel takes me. This one was especially intriguing as it has an observatory on the property! I had to stop in and learn its story. That's not all this library has: a wonderful (and large!) display of beautiful minerals, special exhibit of writings by Herman Wouk, and some of Gerald and Betty Ford's book collection, and more. In non-Covid times, this library even has a little cafe, a branch of Aspen Mills, as well as a previously-owned bookshop. The librarian told me that in non-Covid times, they regularly have concerts and lectures, and several times a week, an astronomer takes whomever is interested into the observatory to see the sky. How cool is that! read more

The library is clean and beautifully decorated. The selection of books and other forms of media is excellent. However, my recent experience with the front desk staff was disappointing. Being new to this particular library, the person at the front desk assumed I would know what he needed when I requested the books that I placed on hold the night before. Unsure, I was waiting for him to ask me for my name. Instead, he rudely pointed to my library card that I set on the counter in front of him for checkout. Rather than pick it up or ask nicely, he just laughed at me, expecting me to hand it to him. I found his behavior very rude and unprofessional. read more

Went to this library with some students and was treated very rudely. A gentleman that works there said that I couldn't be there because I was paid to help these students. He said that this is a city library not like the county libraries and that the city library doesn't allow people paid to assist students. I told him we would not be coming back. read more

Community's treasure. I enjoyed the Observatory and Library as well as the newly added telescope rentals program. Only complaint is not extending the computer rental for more than an hour per day and being told lame excuse that if that was granted nobody would ever leave. To that I say baloney! Less crime on the streets and more access and activities to the library resources including more computers and accessibility to it. Other than this complaint it is a fabulous place. read more