Came by quick and easy print also Fredricka very nice and polite. Thanks will be back for more printing

Very disappointed in the library's choice to host a drag queen story program. I want my library to remain a neutral, family-friendly space without pushing any political or social agendas on kids. This is not appropriate for such a young age group. read more

Very kind lady helped me with excel. She did a great job finding the help and guiding me through it step by step. Wish I knew her name but she has the most patience because I couldn't figure it out myself. read more

Good and well used by community members of all ages, but downsides. For book: I've used this location for pick up since middle school. Learn how to use the online site, and you will find lots of books to reserve. In the morning, I would not use this location to study. In the teen section, it smells bad especially since there is a frequent resident. For studying in general, there are not many seats that I like enough to feel comfortable. So either go early, or choose somewhere else. read more

Great library - newer, good neighborhood, clean... Not the largest library but selection is decent when you consider all of the other Alameda county libraries that are part of this one. I think San Lorenzo is a little known city that is probably underrated. Cost of housing, violent crime rates, weather - as a whole a good town... and its no big surprise that a library in this town is ok or very ok. Inside the library things are clean and newer. Order and indoor voices. People are respectful of one another. You might think the the selection isn't good. And its true... I was looking for a particular book and sure enough it was at another library in the next city over. read more

San Lorenzo Library belongs to the Alameda County Library system. (Dublin, Fremont, Union City, Newark, etc) i prefer them to San Leandro Library system for the uniformity of check out times. all books are due back in 21 days. San Leandro's check out time is 7 days for new books, 14 days for others. not all branches have the same policies.. forgot about 1 book once, was assessed a fine. there doesn't seem to be many titles here. maybe they are all checked out... read more

This was Thursday around 10 o'clock and I stayed in there to do my work on project due to the fact that mine noisy neighbors kid was going berserk in the backyard playing, I mean there is normal play level sounds and there are stadium play level sounds these kids are yelling at the top their lungs in the backyard going completely insane, they were so loud that I my headphones cannot out drown their laughter in screaming so I decided to go to the library. I went to the SLZ library the last time I went to the library was before they remodel and I was just a kid often taking trips with my mother and little brother to the local library. This place brought back a lot of old memories with her when we used to walk to this library me and brother used to go to check out of my favorite children's story book every week. I digress let me continue my story when I got there about 10:15 in the morning it was extremely quiet no screaming kids no noises and I went out went up to the front the customer service for the librarians they were extremely friendly I told him that I am new to this library and I've never been here before is there a spot that I could work quietly. They pointed me to the direction of where I needed to be it was a bunch of really comfy big tables with power outlets which was a blessing because I forgot to charge my laptop. The chairs were nice and squishy and comfortable to be sitting in. Here I thought I finally found my hidden gym of a place where I could just tuck in and continue my work on my projects. To my surprise within an hour I heard a lot of commotion towards the front of the local library and I wonder what it was. As I hear the library and talk to another instead okay who's leading the next tour I knew it was a field trip to the library with fourth graders i. my mind I cannot stop me laugh and kids are everywhere these days I guess why not in the library right lol Thank you it is that the tour of the library went to the children's section which out was on the other wing of the library I continue and God I work done. Overall this it was a great Library experience nice and quiet Place where anyone come in and just get some time to themselves to read to do the work to certain app to do whatever definitely I would suggest a San Lorenzo library, a small yet quiet oasis from the kids going berserk loud next door to your house. I'll definitely be back to my way since we sure. read more

I went here yesterday afternoon with my family. My wife and I moved to San Lorenzo over 8 years ago, but we didn't get around to going to the library earlier (our son got his library card about 6 months ago when he went to Fremont Main Library with my mother-in-law). The hours are solid: Mon & Tues 12 p.m.-8 p.m.; Wed & Thur 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun 1 p.m.-5 p.m. "San Lorenzo Library is the original branch of the Alameda County Library, established in 1910. The current facility opened in 1968. San Lorenzo area residents provide additional support to the library through a Utility Users Tax." https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/alameda-county-library-san-lorenzo-san-lorenzo?select=jTE1HQrrZ0bHKxBG5K4egg: I groaned in 2015 after the library was renovated. Even now, I don't like the design. I'm specifically referring to the V-shaped columns outside (the interior, to some degree, features them too). I can't really complain, though (as a resident, I had a chance to view and vote on the design 4 years ago, but didn't). There is a "double playground" to the right of the library. The "fenced in play area [is] for the younger kids." My son wanted to play right away, but it was raining. https://www.aclibrary.org/san-lorenzo: A lot of events occur here (ex: Family Film Sunday; "Need help with your homework? Stop by Homework Central!"). The library looks great and is spacious overall. There are "outlets and bright lights at every table," and the Wi-Fi seems to be "really fast." There are quite a few computers to use (more than I expected). The Cafe: I was confused. I saw what looked like a small kitchen, but I didn't see anything to eat or drink. Maybe the cafe was closed (a bunch of book carts were in the area). Old Habits Die Hard: My wife and I used to be Library Pages (we met while working at Fremont Main Library in 2004). While looking for books for our son (he's doing a penguin report for school), we were both tempted to straighten up some shelves (I forced myself to focus on the task at hand). Sitting on my ass was a good thing for once. I quickly found what we were looking for (my son checked out 3 books). The children's area is kind of cramped, though. I was careful, but still came close to bumping into a girl. The Circulation Supervisor is Lorraine Marcille. She was the Circulation Supervisor at Union City Library when I worked there. Although we're friends, I didn't actively look for her because we were pressed for time (I felt dumb after we left because the salon I went to for a haircut was so busy that we ended up just going home). https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/alameda-county-library-san-lorenzo-san-lorenzo?select=9xhD7IdZy1CUpkmTy-Cv1A: The Greenhouse Community Room can seat 100. It is the main room for events (ex: the showing of movies). Privacy is an issue at ALL of the Alameda County libraries that I've been to (it's sad, but don't expect peace and quiet). If you really want to study privately, you should go to a college library if you can. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/alameda-county-library-san-lorenzo-san-lorenzo?select=roS4zL_3Aoe8T4_MsAfIJw: I'm not going to mince words. I hate the parking lot. We only got a spot because a man was leaving (my wife and I first experienced how small and tight the parking lot is 2 years ago). When we left, I noticed that a minivan was parked in a non-parking spot. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/alameda-county-library-san-lorenzo-san-lorenzo?select=Ho6NYPtkNtxjfxfAECJQdA: My son enjoyed checking out his books (a boy borrowed the step stool that was by him- his mom wanted him to show more manners, but I basically told her that things were cool). I like how quick and quiet the self-checkout machines are. It's great that the receipt recommends some other books too. https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/alameda-county-library-san-lorenzo-san-lorenzo?select=BZKpj-amLgsE32FNEi2vIA: I'm partly giving 4 stars because I didn't explore the whole library (the restrooms, for example, are apparently "big"). This picture tells me that the area for adults is nicer and more spacious than the children's area. There are some issues, but the library is still nicer than many others I've been to. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9mO7ELoXik read more

See all

I recently re-instated my library card! It was nice to come back after the remodel. The library still collects a lot of light during the day and has plenty of areas to work and read. Checking out a book is easy and the staff are helpful and kind. A plus for me is they have an updated design for library cards. Nice. read more

Stopped into San Lorenzo Library since there's an event soon I wanted to go & I needed to know where it is. There's a good-size parking lot on the Left for San Lorenzo Library, friends say to park by the USPS instead. I found it's by a gate that I can park by the USPS & walk over. I used the bathroom - they have both sexes, women's just one toilet/sink. I saw the East Bay Express & East Bay Park Activity Guide. There was a cart for FREE Japanese books - most of the books were in Japanese, but there was one Time Out Tokyo book in English! I scored! Small library, many people using it on Sat 8/18/12. Books, DVDs, CDs, there were computers, many chairs/tables. I love Libraries! read more

See all

I used to really like this library but have slowly realized that a new building doesn't mean everything. First, one of the automatic faucets in the men's room has not worked as long as I've lived here, which really creates a problem if there are other people who need to wash their hands. They don't really seem to be interested in fixing it. This library doesn't do color printing. This blew my mind. Granted, not all libraries do, but a lot of them do. You would think that a library that checks out laptops and iPads would have color printing, but nope. The parking is horrible, especially during peak hours. People start parking in nonexistent spots and at times creates chaos when you're trying to enter or leave. The library has no interest in fixing this. The people who work here are weird. I mean straight up weird. They even have a security guard who 9/10 times is 80+ years old. Imagine an elderly woman who has to break up a fight. Seems like a complete waste of money that could be used to resolve any and all of the things I mentioned. But what finally got me to post this review involved allowing pets inside. One such incident resulted in a dog having a diarrhea like leakage on the floor, which I immediately pointed out to the owner, as well as the staff. The solution? Put a wet floor sign over it. Now that is class. I'm pretty sure the reason why no one wanted to clean up the biological hazard is because the convicted felon who does the janitorial work wasn't there. Sad to say, this library is pretty poor. Why spend the money on a new building if you're going to do nothing to ensure it's upkeep or ability to positively affect the neighborhood? I'm very disappointed. read more

San Lorenzo Library - Most of the dog's excretion was liquid, but you can see some solid chunks that no one could be bothered to clean. - Libraries Near Me - San Lorenzo, California

I'm a bit disappointed about their new hours of operation but this library is STILL my very favorite library. I'm just surprised that they're open to public in the middle of all this time of Pandemic when people are completely avoiding going to places and just staying put in their domicile. I will going here because I love their setup and their computers and I kinda understand on why they changed their hours. read more

Strangely, I don't go here for the books. The selection of print materials hovers between the 1970's and 1980's. The DVDs and electronic media do an equal job at being outdated artifacts of time. Maybe they're catering to the senior center that sits nearby? While content isn't their strong point, solitude is. Other libraries will have ridiculous amounts of children squealing with vigor. Offensive smell is another factor I find at many public institutions. Yet with the San Lorenzo Library I find that I can grab a college style study desk and get some actual work done without constant reminders that I'm in public space. Wifi is free here and is substantially better than the airwaves of the Hayward Main Public Library (mostly due to the low number of people using Wifi). Parking inside the San Lorenzo Library private parking lot is constantly congested. Lengthy old-timey cars fill every space so you're best to park on the backside of Wolf Camera. Here you can avoid the horribly slow parkers and simply walk through the fence. Go here to study or read. Don't go here for the selection of books. read more

San Lorenzo Library - Libraries Near Me - San Lorenzo, California

Their selection isn't huge. Too many homeless people hang out here. That is no problem if they want to come in and read some books. But there is one homeless man in particular who is always there when I am there and he sleeps on the table with all of his belongings spread out. He also eats! One time his lady friend was there and they were having aloud conversation. It made my experience of trying to study and get work done, not fun at all. He one time yelled at a father and cussed him out because his children were "too loud" while going around looking for books. The children weren't loud at all. The father apologized, obviously realizing this homeless man, isn't all there. But this isn't okay. We should be able to go to the library to feel comfortable. Good for the father taking his kids to get some books! But the homeless man yelling, not so much. The man causes too much trouble whenever I'm there. I know it's a public library but there should be some stricter rules if homeless people are going to hang in there all of the time. read more

Am I the only one here who thinks that almost every employee here is a grump? I know I might be a little overdue but you don't have to take it personally, Honey... Selections a little limited, especially for any Spanish language books, which ends up forcing me to drink to Fremont, c'est la vie... read more

Love this library and during covid they have curbside pick up. Also using Libby for electronic options is great. Who can beat free books.

First time visit to this beautiful little library and what a huge disappointment in customer service. I didn't understand how book donations were accepted and added my books to an existing huge pile of books outside the door. The most rude librarian and his security guard came out and started telling me I shouldn't put them there. First off, you should have shown some appreciation for my generous donation today which easily could be sold for more than $50. Nothing. In fact the librarian sounded like they did not even want the books. I could have been given some direction as to the proper place and I would have gladly help put them there. I've given thousands of dollars of books to Alameda County libraries over the years and never had even one bad experience with a librarian until today on my first time visit. People this rude should find a different occupation. Never giving this library anything again to say the least. read more

Libraries are great! I hadn't been to an Alameda County Library in a while, but my mom and I spent an afternoon perusing their selection. It was quiet, cool, and there were study rooms and plenty of space. Self check-out was easy to use and there was a fancy book turn-in system, too. I love that they have made their library system fee-less. There are no longer fees and if you had fees before June 2018, they were wiped away. Wonderful, inclusive, forgiving. read more

Since this library is closer (actually walking distance from my home) than the Hayward, San Leandro or Castro Valley branches, my son and I frequent this library often. Yet, compared to those other libraries, this one is my least favorite. Side note: I grew up with a small branch that belonged to a larger county system, so I can appreciate the quaint community feel this one brings in. However, there are major flaws to this branch. The staff is mostly unpleasant, unhelpful and cold older women. On numerous occasions, they wanted nothing to do with fixing their broken child computers so my kid could use it. I stopped asking them for suggested story books after I was told to check their online catalog. Also, if you plan on asking a question be prepared to wait awhile for someone who actually knows the answer or be turned away without results. Because of this, I try to interact with the younger ones, as they seem to be the polar opposite of their aging counterparts, but they are hardly there at the times when we're visiting. In addition, unless I specifically request a book/item that branch never seems to have what I'm looking for at that moment. I do like that if another branch has what I'm looking for, it will be shipped to this branch within a couple days of requesting that material, and that is quite convenient. Also, their adult chairs are comfy but their children ones are ridiculously uncomfortable. To end on a positive note: the library is usually clean, free from annoying loud teenagers (unlike the CV branch), attached to a moderate size playground, always has parking, and has one of the coldest water fountains I've ever drank from. I'll be back just for that alone. read more

The only reason they are getting a second star is because 1 Librarian, Diane, was such a delight to work with and I would work with her again anytime. Now onto the negatives.I am a well-respected Paranormal researcher & investigator with a widely popular team. I have been published in 3 books, the cover of 5 newspapers & numerous internet articles. My team was featured and interviewed by NBC Bay Area News, 6 different radio stations both mainstream and underground. We even recently were contacted by 5 different casting directors for TV sponsorship and appearances. Diane contacted me, asking to do a seminar about the paranormal. I, of course, was more than happy to oblige. We set up a time and day 1 month in advance and booked the meeting room for our seminar. We come back on that day and there's a math tutor class in our room at the time we booked. I asked the tutor to move his class, as we had booked the room. He said he wouldn't leave. So I go to the Head Librarian, as Diane was not available. The Head Librarian told us to wait until he was done. When I reminded her who were and that we had booked the room last month after WE WERE ASKED TO DO THE SHOW, she just looked at me and told me to wait outside. Excuse me?! We wait for over an hour, and finally I storm inside and tell her either the class moves so we can set up and do the show we were asked to do, or I cancel it and report them to the County Office. Luckily the class was finishing. My team and I scramble to get everything set up in time and the show actually went off without a problem. As a show of good faith to the library, we had held a raffle with prizes during the show, with the ticket sale proceeds going to the library. When I presented the Head Librarian with the generous donation, she gave me a dirty look and said "well, you're not supposed to do that without filling out a form and asking us". Really? You treat us like crap after you invite us. We still raise money for your failing library that we all went to growing up, and you still treat us like crap? This library is good for material only, the staff is rude, and think they are better than everyone. (except for Diane, you were great!) I don't recommend this place to anyone. read more

This library sucks. Not only does most of their catalog contain books from the 1800s, but the place is super dusty, stuffy and smells like a retirement home. Are their computers up to date, yet? I couldn't tell you what is new about this library as I refused to go there anymore starting a few years ago. Why? Some how they told me that my books were "years overdue" and there was some ridiculous $ amount they wanted me to pay in late fees. I don't have the books, they were returned, and I even found them on the shelf. They said that doesn't relieve me of the late fees, so I gave them my library card and told them I wouldn't be checking out anything from them ever again. read more

I have attempted to come here and study in hopes to find a quiet environment... however, the few times I have been here it is loud. How ironic is that the loudest ones are the librarians working at the counter. From all the libraries I been to, these librarians do not know how to use soft indoor voices. They seem to laugh hysterically too. I understand the little kids being loud, but wish someone can tell them to be quiet too. I still get work done here too, but just more easily distracted. On the plus side, this library is newly remodeled and very spacious. I love how they have outlets and bright lights at every table. The wifi is really fast too, no problem with that. I used to check out books here when I was younger too and I was always satisfied with their selection and variety, but now it has been awhile since I have. I hope to do so in the near future though. read more

This tiny little library will be getting a much needed makeover in the next few years. Modern design, more amenities, better all around everything will keep this little branch afloat in the library world. The kids' story times and extra activities are wonderful. The staff is eager to get the kids involved with reading and learning, and offer about 3 programs a week. Great for the community. There's also a playground attached to the library, so you can run your kids wild so they'll be quiet when you go inside. read more

Nice library. A little on the older side, but most libraries probably are. The selection of little kids books is great and they have a little corner of the library dedicated to kids. Alameda County Library (which this library is part of) also has a great online system for requesting physical books as well as ebooks. And the staff here is also really nice. We did the summer reading program this year. My toddler loved spinning the wheel to find the spots to stamp on the playing card. There is a great little park next door too, to let the kiddies run around and get their energy out. The toddler park in the back is nicely fenced in to keep little toddlers from running away too easily. read more

The only pro for this branch is that it is withon walking distance from my house. The cons are innumerable. The staff is not friendly at all. No one smiles nor are they helpful when you approach the librarian desk.The head librarian can never be found nor contacted. It takes forever for requested items to make it to the hold shelf. The magazine and newspaper section is always a mess. Papers strewn about and magazines not where they should be. read more

Wow! So, I've recently discovered the San Lorenzo Library. To all the potential patrons, I wouldn't let any review before Summer 2010 dissuade you from coming to this library. Why? Because they've totally remodeled everything! New shelves, new carpet, new layout, new furniture, and the coolest cushy chairs I've ever rested my bum on. The only thing that hasn't changed is the beautiful modern (60s) architecture with lots of natural light spilling in. It isn't the largest library, but i like it that way! Its not so small that my claustrophobic tendencies start acting up, but there's a real community vibe here. The other key things that did it for me (in no particular order) are: 1) cool staff who have friendly librarian voices and wear pretty cardigans. 2) an insanely updated collection of mainstream and academic DVDs. no more netflix for me! 3) the homey environment- nice furniture, lots of open space, and no librarians telling you to shush! they are so nice and love seeing groups come in to study. 4) lots of desks to study on. 5) lots of computers with free internet access. i see a LOT of people using the computers and printers. 6) the hold system that lets you place holds on Alameda County books to come right to you.. AND the Link+ system that gives you direct access to UC Berkeley's collection, as well as SF's, Oakland's, etc. etc. Who thinks of these great ideas? our wonderful, brainy local librarians. read more

I like to look up books online and reserve them for pickup when I am getting to the end of the last book reserved. working my way through the Agatha Christie collection and others. read more

The remodel is basically useless in my point of view !!! It looks like your in a elementary library. No more desk to study Privately, just a few open tables. It was better before it was remodeled What a waste of money!!!!! read more

My family and I are excited to know that the library is now opened after their remodel. We've been the location a few times after they've opened. Still crowded and I have a feeling it will be for a while. The parking is still the same- barely any parking. The inside of the library is quite nice. The teen area is cute. Still seems a bit small inside, but better. The staff is rude. Before they remodeled I found the staff to be helpful. We will continue going to the Castro Valley library. More parking, more space inside the library, and staff is nice and helpful. read more

It was my first time coming and definitely not my last. I recently came on a Saturday as soon as they opened since I was going to bring my kids to thr Spanish storytime. Since i did not have a library card since I live in unincorporated San Leandro, I was in luck. I was greeted by Jasmine who ecplained to me about the card, hours etc abd was truly great. read more

I would enjoy this library acted like a library. The bathroom smells bad and the kids make so much noise. Just turn it into a day care. read more

We love our library!! The new building is nice, but the great thing is the push to really make it a place for community. There are lots of activities for the kids, including a new Makerspace program. We hang out there a lot and have found the staff to be helpful and accommodating...they know us by name and are great! Today, we went to finish our school work and get tickets for the duct-tape workshop for the kids. While we were there, they announced the game time for elementary students in the teen room. So, my girls finished up their math and went over there. The staff helped the kids learn how to play and a good group of kids shared well and played together. When the weather is nice, we like the double playground that is right there. It is especially nice to have the fenced in play area for the younger kids and full visibility of both areas from any vantage point. I think that it would be nice to have some way of shading the large windowed walls in the children's area, since sometimes it is too bright. I think they have automatic shades at other libraries. All in all, though, we really enjoy our time there. Recently, we have been running into friends or making new ones that we see on a regular basis. Our family is definitely there a lot, and it is a comfortable place to work, study, read and learn. read more

Great little library that just got a complete remodel. They host lots of events, including both a tea hour in the cafe and a circus show for families when I was there. New and clean with a park and parking right outside, all of which makes it a very family friendly spot to stop. The children's librarian, Jesse, is a delight! read more

Today was very interesting! I used to love this place after i encounter a very rude librarian. I walked to the counter and ask if i may i have 10 to 5 post-it. The Librarian gave me the most stupidest look in the world like i asked her for a million dollar! She had a smirk on her face. She said "No, The library has to buy it just like you do!" A simple No, would have done the trick! Thanks for serving the community Slz Library. You let me down! Why are you guys so moody! read more

Pros: Renovated Free wifi with no pw needed Cons: Close at 6pm wed and thurs Have to pay to print Kids too loud they should have their own section read more

I have been a long time patron of this library. It's not perfect but eh, it does the job. Wifi not bad. Every now and again, they have some special event and I typically enjoy them. Hope to see more of that. read more

Awesome library! I'm in grad school so I come here often to study. They have a quiet room just for studying which is great! Also, if you get there early enough, you can book a private conference room. Best east bay library, hands down. read more

there's nowhere to park in this library why would I waste my time even going there I tried to go there you can't get no parking it should be torn down and build a new one read more

The San Lorenzo Library is great! I am a regular user of this library and I have never had any problems. They have plenty of computers available for use and free wifi. The great thing is you can sit outside on one of the benches and use the wifi without even going inside. Another thing is that you can use your cell phone inside the building without anyone shushing you. It's a wonderful community library and a valuable gem to San Lorenzo. read more

I love this library. I have so many childhood memories of checking out books and playing book games during the summer. They also have a fairly good collection of Manga compared to other libraries, and they've got some awesome swings in the front for kids and adults alike to use. read more