The Sacramento library has a quiet charm. It's not flashy or crowded -- just a pleasant, peaceful place where people come to read and learn.

So I haven't been to a library since I had to take my daughter when she was in high school. Well I was watching one of my movie vloggers and he told me about an app that the library lets you use if you have an account. It's called Kanopy. I had to try it out. I signed up for a library card and downloaded the app on my TV. it is pretty nice. You can view over 30,000 movies, documentaries , international movies, learning videos and even block buster movies. It is all free to view. It is so cool that this works for free. I have watched several movies and other videos on it. It is a great streaming service that doesn't cost you anything. Who knew that the library would be great use even after school read more

On a day trip to Sacramento, I stopped by the library. Whenever I visit a city, I like to get a library card, and as a California resident, it's free. For me, getting library cards from different cities is educational and resourceful. Each library system has its own databases, digital resources, ebooks, research tools, and learning programs, which can be different from what I have access to in San Francisco. I like exploring those different resources--it's a great way to learn, discover new materials, and make the most of what public libraries offer. A library card can be a small souvenir from a trip, but also a very useful one. read more

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Great library. It's spacious, well-designed, and has a welcoming atmosphere. The children's section is located on the lower level and features a dedicated play area, making it a fun and engaging space for kids to explore, read, and play. It's a wonderful spot for families to spend time together while encouraging a love of books. I parked on the street and paid via the Sacramento Parking app. read more

Sacramento Public Library - Central - Inside - Libraries Near Me - Sacramento, California

My hubby I stopped in yesterday and they were celebrating Black History month in a big way with their current exhibit; "Take Me to the Water" Histories of the Black Pacific by Dr. Caroline Collins! The exhibit will run until March 16 and they have cases of authentic artifacts and lots of large posters with information about African history! For example did you know Nick Gabaldón, was the first African American surfer? This library is grand, with elevators that take you to 4 floors, a kid's space, teen space, computers, etc! We rented DVDS to watch together and age appropriate books and board games for our 7 year old! I would HIGHLY recommend visiting the Central free public library that opened to the public in 1879. In 1992 it joined the National Register of Historic Places! We'll be back to explore more, my hubby said their kid's section is huge!! SYOY! :-) * Song Credit: Whenever by LiQWYD read more

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Getting a library card at the Sacramento Public Library was super easy and simple! Everyone I talked to who worked there was so kind and helpful. I really appreciate how welcoming and supportive the library is, they even offer free tampons and pads in the bathrooms, as well as free pregnancy tests, condoms, and information about STDs. On top of that, their genealogy section is incredible! They have books from different states and counties, not just California or Sacramento County. It's such a great resource and a wonderful place to spend time read more

Sacramento Public Library is in a great location downtown and occupies several floors. On the first floor are two chess puzzles with answers available at the front desk. I am avid player of chess so appreciated this. I felt they had a compelling collection of vegan cookbooks and helpful folks work. Nice library! read more

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I love the public library. Excellent fiction section and the staff are so helpful! You can also borrow a California state park 3 weeks at a time (note: this is not the same as the national park pass). These passes provides free vehicle day-use entry to over 200 participating state parks (see participating parks here: https://www.parks.ca.gov) read more

The staff was was very helpful. I was able to get my replacement card in person without having to wait for it in the mail. 5 stars.

As for this library its my favorite spot to browse books n' such Kim suggested a couple hidden gem books for me that I wound up loving, which was awesome of them. Real laidback vibe at that store, perfect for unwinding with a good book or two! read more

Excellent location downtown. I know books are getting a little more scare during the pandemic and some of the shelves were a bit bare. But what a great place on my first visit in person. The online app, Libby, to borrow audio and ebooks is terrific! By the way, the library website is easy to use and always up-to-date with all their locations open hours. The building and inside decor is classic and I love it. The elevator and stairs were in good working order. Good covid safe distancing was appreciated. Parking is all around but in this area it can be a challenge to be right in front or on the same block. The front entrance parking has 30 minute limit most of the time so a bit easier to find a spot and go in for a quick browse and borrow. read more

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First visit was very pleasant - loved seeing lots of shelves of books, and the different floors. The librarian was very friendly and helpful, and gave me tips about the Sacramento public libraries all around. read more

February 4, 2022 Update of any review one thousand ninety five. My previous has sixteen votes, nineteen votes, and twenty seven votes. People say there homeless come into this library. I not seeing that. I like children section. There is one shelf that I will call The State Books shelf. There are fifty one, that is fifty of states and Washington DC. Even Washington DC has a state flag. Red line with white stars, white, more red line with white stars, more white, third line of red lines with white stars. Each these state books has interesting facts for that state, the state icons, state nicknames, details of different popular towns in that state. There are times when the librarian(s) will draw me map of how walk back to the hotel. read more

The library is very nice, the staff is very accommodating. The children's section was filled with many wonderful selections. The computer was very fast. There were many computer's available, I am sorry that there we're not more children there to utilize the wonderful services available to them. I am reminded by my visit that as I have fewer funds to spend on entertainment, the public library has a treasure of entertainment available at no cost to me. Audible books, kindle books, magazines, movies , WiFi, computers, board games, video games. read more

OKAY BUT I QUESTION SAFETY. I was staying in town for the night while traveling north and needed a place with wifi to work on some grad school homework for a few hours. Regrettably, I came here and wishes I would have just gone to a Starbucks or other coffee shop. There were a LOT of homeless people in this library. I thought going up to the top where they have a specific location for college and careers would be a good place to sit down and get to work but boy, was I wrong! The higher up you go in the building, the more bums! I ended up sitting and felt like I constantly had to be looking around 'on guard' and making sure my briefcase was still close next to me. Groups of sketchy people kept forming by random walls and though a security guard or two would circulate from time to time, I always wished they were there when they weren't. What's worse is that a lot of these individuals stunk.... really bad! If you are actually looking to study and feel safe doing so, I recommend steering clear of this place and going to a coffee shop or something. It may be louder but at least you'll feel safe and cleaner! read more

This is one of my favorite library in Sacramento because it's next to my building. And everyday I can stop by the library either to drop off or pick up the books. The staffs are very friendly. And I can request books from any library and it can be picked up from this location. And for check-out you can go to any Kiosk and check out without standing in long ques. I heard they do passport renewal on the 2nd floor. Cons -- the parking is not free. You need to park on the streets which is metered or the parking garage next door which is a little expensive and limited space. On the bottom floor they have kids books that's where I spend more of my time searching. And they have a little corner for kids to play, story time, computers for people to browse. This library has lots of offer. And you can borrow videos as well. I had checkout the prenatal videos which were useful. And you will notice, homeless people come inside this library too. Everyone is treated fairly here. read more

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My favorite Sacramento Library. Beautiful architecture and spacious floors full of books and reading space. Lovely interior spaces, rooms, and halls make for pretty awesome exploration, peaceful study areas, and also one of the most breathtaking weddings I've ever been to. Versatile library spot, to be sure. Every time I need a book, they seem to have it. The online system is user friendly and they are very responsive to requests. Even newly released items, within reason. If they don't have something, I'm usually able to get it via transfer within a few days. Managed to get a copy of House of Leaves in 4 days after placing it on hold. And that book is ALWAYS unavailable. Librarians are helpful and really care about giving back to the community. There are so many services here to help just about all walks of life. I love my local library! read more

The staff there are so kind and considerate. My club and I were drenched in the rain without anywhere to go since we biked from Davis, and the staff there gave us our own meeting room to eat and rest. Big thank you from the Vietnamese Student Association at UC Davis! read more

Check out the new web site! You can use an ID rather than your 29 digit card number now, thank god. Extend your checkouts and pay your late fees online. The best part is the new book search - they finally got a decent search application, and they are tagging and reviewing the books - tag clusters omg! - the system is light-years ahead of where it was. Check out Link+ if you can't find a book - it's killer. read more

Terrible! Libraries are supposed to be a quiet place to study. I have always found librarians to be courteous and helpful. Unfortunately, both of these things have been abandoned at this library. Their priority is political correctness. Another patron was continuously making a disturbing noise and when I complained I was told that "The library isn't expected to be quiet anymore." Headache!!! Both a security guard and a librarian were condescending. Moreover, a librarian actually lied to me about where to email my complaint. Pathetic. read more

This library is very chillax - It is a great place for an Amtrak traveler to kill time if they are not expecting to board the train anytime soon and its a small walk. I decided to do this as I had 2 hours. Great wifi speeds, no library card required. You can sign up for a public library card here and maybe when you are taking the train you can check out movies for your laptop or hotel DVD player and drop them off the next day. The ideas are out there! Oh, did you know that they also check out Video Games as well! My member card expired so I updated my contact information and they gave me a new card free of charge. About comments here of people hanging out - I see people hanging out here who appear to be homeless or on the brink of it, but they own electronics such as laptops and so forth, so they may be using it for job resources or so forth. It's a safe haven for them, I am not bothered by that but as one review said, never leave your items unattended. Overall a nice place to visit if you are a local or a visitor. read more

It's a quiet place. It would have been better if there aren't homeless people hanging out... they can be a bit loud.

Okay, this isn't the most amazing library you've ever been to. BUT, some things to know: There is a California specific section that is off to the side when you walk in. You have to sign in and leave your bags at the front of that room (they put them in a closed cubby for you). There are some amazing books and documents in there, and if you ever need a quiet place to study, that might be the best spot in the whole library. You should definitely check it out regardless. Yes, there are a lot of homeless people. And you know what, THERE SHOULD BE. News flash people, there are a lot of homeless in Sacramento, and they need a warm, dry, safe place to hang out sometimes. While Sacramento is failing its homeless population in a lot of ways, this library isn't. I'm so mad about the reviews that give it one star for that. The library is there to serve the public, and this is exactly the kind of thing I am hoping my tax dollars go to. Five stars from me for this reason alone. read more

Lots of books and mostly friendly librarians, BUT their other services offered are pathetic and management doesn't care about improving. I called during the week about passport services, and was told I could only do a walk-in on Sunday. Got there as soon as the place opened on Sunday and waited half an hour before the clerk in the office bothered to unlock his door and tell us that walk-ins are prohibited on Sunday. Another group of people waiting had the same experience. The clerk obviously didn't care that we'd been given wrong information, and when I complained to the library management all I got was, "Sorry but we can't help you even though our people told you the wrong thing." I'm so disappointed by this experience as someone who has always supported increasing the library budget in the past. Now I'm wondering what they're doing with their budget as it is - obviously none of it is going toward providing good customer service. read more

Had a great experience from start to finish with their passport services. I called in to schedule an appointment and the appointment was made for about a month later. I received a reminder text the day before my appointment. At my appointment I had most everything on my application filled out but still had a couple of questions. The gentleman working in the passport services was helpful in making sure I wrote the correct info down. Best of all, the whole process took no longer than ten minutes. Unbelievable! After the appointment I got a chance to look around the library and signed up for a library card. There's lots of cool things going on here! read more

It's a beautiful Library. I like the architecture outside and the interior design inside. It's a typical building with floors of books. I remember coming here years before on a 4th grade field trip. They were giving tours and showing the kids how to use the intranet book catalog. There is also the Tsakapoulous Library Galleria next door for events like Weddings, Parties, Meetings and Conferences. Totally related to the Sac Library System. I recall Sacramento Fashion Week starting off there. There is also a La Bou around the corner, so you can eat if you plan on staying all day in the library. I like coming here because it has a large variety of books to borrow. Most of the time you can find the book you are looking for. Other than that, you can always get the library to special order the book to be sent over to the nearest library to you. Parking can be a pain but you can always just use the meters outside which is a lot more affordable than the parking garage. I havent stuck around to study here yet. I think it's because I am worried about the parking meters. Hee hee. read more

This review is for the passport services. Passport services is located on the second floor. I was in and out with pictures taken within 20 minutes. Make appointments prior to coming in. The person who processed my passport application, Hoang, was extremely friendly. He let me view my pictures and took a couple so I could choose. Things to bring: 2 checks or money orders: One for the library and one to the government ID (Drivers License): They will make photocopies Birth Certificate or old passport: They will take the birth certificate which will be mailed back to you. 5 stars for customer service, organization, and simplicity of the process. read more

I come to this library often to check out movies and use the computer. Every once in a while, at the first floor of the library "The Friends of the Library" does offer a selection of books, magazines, and, yes, comic books for a donation of anywhere between $0.25 to $2.00 per item. While much of the books are outdated, I was able to find a pretty good book which relates to my job search a few months ago titled Who's Hiring Who? by Richard Lathrop. I did an amazon.com search of this author and found out he also wrote another follow-up book titled Don't Use A Resume.....Use a Qualifications Brief. Both have been invaluable when it comes to my job searches. Patrons can borrow movies for three weeks, and it's a good idea to return it on the due date because the Central Library is getting stiffer when it comes to fines. And recently, they charge a $1.00 "re-shelving fee" if a patron does not pick up an item on reserve. Despite the stiffer fines and the furloughs (the next furlough will be on October 19th) this is still a good library to go to borrow books, use the computer and check out movies. read more

Sacramento Public Library - Central - Who's Hiring Who? one of the rare gems a patron can find at the Friends of the Library book sale on the first floor. - Libraries Near Me - Sacramento, California

Our family's first visit to this library. Wow! It was nice! A five story building. Very spacious with lots of materials to choose from. Their children's section though, is not as kids friend as other libraries I've been to. The staff were very friendly and helpful. The only down side is the location because it is in downtown Sacramento. It is very hard to find parking. But overall, all this library is a great place! read more

After purchasing my 95 year old house I wanted to get as much historical information as possible on it. I was referred to different county offices by friends and got nowhere so I decided to head to the library. The friendly staff downstairs sent me to the Sacramento Room and boy was I pleasantly surprised! The librarian was eager to help me find as much information as possible. I honestly couldn't have done any of it without him! I ended up spending hours in the Room and left with so much interesting information as well as resources on how to get more.I cannot say enough about how great my experience was and how I'll remember this experience for a very long time. read more

I bring my kids here almost every weekend because I LOVE the children's area, which is downstairs. We like to attend storytime held every Saturday at 11am with Nate the Librarian, who my kids really like. Even if there is no storytime scheduled, and you have kids, the children's floor has tons to do. There are little sitting areas where kids can read to themselves or in groups, and there are several computers for use too. For young kids, there are toys (puzzles, blocks, etc.) that are available to play with. Of course, there are books for all levels of reader. My kids still like the "baby" books, and there are a lot of those to choose from. Give this library a visit if you want to get out of the house with the kids! read more

This is my favorite library! If a book is not available at the SPL, you can request for it to be mailed from another library in Sacramento County, which is the service I use most often. Most of the time you can only keep the books two weeks but the selection is huge. Conveniently, you pick up your requested books right by the check out. Staff is always knowledgeable and helpful. If I could only remember now that the library is closed Mondays before I start walking.... read more

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The main branch offers services to get your passport. It is a wonderful service and the fee paid to the library goes to support getting new resources. You write two checks. One to the library and one to the State Department. The details on how to use this service is on the library web page. A great way to apply for your passport and support the library at the same time. Making an appointment is strongly recommended as staff are busy providing this tremendous service. My passport came super quick. A great experience!!! Two thumbs up!!! read more

The Sacramento Library Central Branch is my favorite library within the entire Sacramento County system.The library has a variety of services not limited to electronic book checkout, literacy coaching, computers, academic tutoring, scholarship search, passport, resume assistance, movies, historical research,etc. Addtionally host community events such Chinesse New Years, Second Saturday, Halloween, Story Time for Children, Author Lecture Series, ect. I have toured as well as used libraries around the country for the size, the demographics of the population surrounding the area, and the access to resources this particular library has gone above and beyond. The staff as well as the volunteers are patient and attentive. Due to the kindness of the staff and volunteers I now volunteer time to time for Central. Be aware of your surroundings as this is downtown Sacramento. Parking especially street parking can be a challenge may I suggest use parking garages, take lightrail, or walk. read more

Stephanie M., the central library supervisor, was awweeessoommmmmeeee! Actually I need to step back and thank Nicole for her executive decision in taking it to the next level instead of running me in circles! Much appreciated. So thank you both and the library for all of your help with so much speed and care! read more

Brought my 3 year old in for the first time after going to the Elk Grove location and she didn't want to leave! The kids area is amazing. So many toys and things for her to look and play with she didn't even want to look at the books. The area is large and open so I was able to browse books while keeping an eye on her. They made the kids area perfect for kids. We live in Elk Grove so definitely a little drive but we will be back on Thursdays for story time and let my little ones play. Great place to bring your kids! read more

Came here to study while I was waiting in the area. I didn't get to explore much of this place, but went to the forth floor where it's a quiet study area. There are a lot of questionable people lurking in this library, but do keep in mind that this library is a PUBLIC library and located in downtown Sacramento where there are a lot of homeless people. However, if you don't bother them, they won't bother you. Despite the location, this is a well kept library. read more

This is my favorite library in Sacramento simply because it has the most books! (I love all libraries though, really.) So many selections. I truly appreciate how many nonfiction books there are. You can definitely learn many things by picking up a few books. I also love the architecture and how large it is. I usually get lucky with parking here, so parking has not been an issue for me. Many homeless people hanging out here, literally just walking around or sitting quietly, which is fine. Support libraries! read more

Confession: Amazon ate my library card. It's been years since I've stepped foot inside one of the hallowed halls. So the other day, I thought I would go see what's new and exciting for kicks. But things haven't changed that much from the last time I darkened the door. Like ... 1. They still have books! (And it smells like books!) 2. The librarian still looks like your grandmother ... or reclusive old aunt. 3. I still felt like I was going to get in trouble at any second for talking too loud (though this time, I wasn't talking at all. And in my defense, it wasn't my fault my vocal chords always seemed to carry further than my friends'; I have always had a deep booming voice. yay.) 4. The periodical section But things I noticed that seemed, well, different. 1. The People -- there are lots of them here and of all different walks of life. 2. Now, I have to park (and only for one hour) in front of the library rather than just walk. 3. Self checkout. Whoa. 4. Someone shushed the librarian! OMG, I was expecting her to throw a shoe at his head. 5. Yes, the librarian was the loudest person in the place. Does she think she's above the rules of the LIBRARY? I'm appalled at the blatant abuse and corruption. read more

Came here for passport - waited almost 4 hours - they talked me out of expediting passport and now less than a week out I just got notified that they completely screwed up my paperwork. Now I must go to San Francisco - outrageous! They didn't seem to know what they were doing and literally took almost an hour per person. I am disgusted and can't believe that I wasted my time with these fools! Do not go here - you will regret it. read more