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    San Lorenzo Library

    3.4 (47 reviews)
    Open 10:00 am - 5:00 pm

    San Lorenzo Library Photos

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    The "markings" out front have to do with the rain. ... The library was renovated in 2015. I like how it looks overall.
    Simon F.

    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

    Outside
    Ann L.

    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!

    Most of the dog's excretion was liquid, but you can see some solid chunks that no one could be bothered to clean.
    John W.

    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.

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

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    6 years ago

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

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - San Lorenzo Library

    Review Highlights - San Lorenzo Library

    I hadn't been to an Alameda County Library in a while, but my mom and I spent an afternoon perusing their selection.

    Mentioned in 3 reviews

    Read more highlights

    San Leandro Public Library

    San Leandro Public Library

    3.9(46 reviews)
    1.6 mi

    I most definitely recommend the library to everyone! There's so many perks, events and learning…read moreopportunities + the Discover & Go perks (Google it or ask your librarian!). Get yourself a library card to check out books, magazines, DVDs & I'm not sure exactly of what else. Some libraries offer check out of tools (if not the Manor branch, the Main library does! ie. stuff for camping trips). You can also rent out private study rooms for a certain amount of time. You can use their computers (forgot how long the time goes up to) & I also love that they allow free computer printing up to 20 pages. Make sure to keep track of your return date for items checked out. They have self check out machines- super easy, and have the clerks available to help you out if need be. Enjoy!

    I appreciate the hours; came in on a Friday when the main library(which I love) was closed :-( This…read morelibrary is open Monday through Friday and closes on the weekend. Study tables and chairs line the windows and there are also comfy looking chairs set up for alternate study positions. Children library is toward the back and there are also a couple of tables and computers back there. I like that study rooms can be reserved as well. As far as noise ummmm...it's loud in here. Not the occasional door opening or chair scraping on the floor. There's a constant orchestra of noise which may be ok for some but as for me, I prefer library silence to study. I understand that this library is one big shared space for adults and kids and actually didn't mind noise from the kids. It was all the other distractions, including another patron that was FaceTiming on speaker. Really sis? I'll come if I have no other choice but if you need a quiet space to study I would not recommend, or maybe bring noise cancelling headphones. Will give a 4 because I want to support local libraries.

    Photos
    San Leandro Public Library
    San Leandro Public Library
    San Leandro Public Library

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    San Leandro Library - Main Library - front entrance

    San Leandro Library - Main Library

    4.3(134 reviews)
    3.5 mi

    I think libraries don't get enough credit, and the San Leandro Library is definitely a good example…read moreof that!!! My daughter has been going here for what seems like forever. Through middle school, high school and even college. She's an avid reader so she loves this place!! She's also the reason I've been here multiple times, and yes, I do have a library card. Getting a library card is quick, easy, and free. Just fill out your info on the computers they have set up and they will give you a card. This place is large and spacious, plenty of places to sit and read, tables to work or study, and computers are available for use also. There is gift shop and cafe here along with conference rooms and very clean restrooms. There is also a second story here, like I said, very spacious!! So don't sleep on the San Leandro Public Library, if you do get a chance to go here, you will be pleasantly surprised!!

    I honestly love this library. I come here to do get some work done with friends all the time. I am…read morevery appreciative of the space and the books!! I love being surrounded by books, and this library def had a great selection of everything. I was able to find a lot of books easily through their online search or even just in person (you just need to know how they organize it by author etc etc). Also, their parking lot is great. It has a lot of spaces. I would definitely recommend this library if you're wanting to take your family here or if you're just looking for a quiet place to work!

    Photos
    San Leandro Library - Main Library - Inside

    Inside

    San Leandro Library - Main Library - Computers.

    Computers.

    San Leandro Library - Main Library - Statue on the 2nd floor of the library

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    Statue on the 2nd floor of the library

    Alameda Free Library - Plenty of work/study area on the 2nd floor (north end)

    Alameda Free Library

    4.2(142 reviews)
    8.7 mi

    Free parking and street parking Next to Park street but…read morewell insulated so you won't hear the noise from outside Next to the APD as well, can't feel any safer Well lit, high ceiling, clean flat flooring and some sections are carpeted, outdoor seating and a cafe inside Restrooms are clean, private rooms for meetings and studying Can't say anything bad, been coming here for years

    Soooo the library is a hub of information and I'd call myself a library enthusiast who's always…read moreseeking information. I've been going to libraries since I was a child, checking out books, magazines, dvds, and whatever else that can be checked out. The large amount of events for all ages is also a bonus - Baby & me, toddler, and Grown Folks story time, French Conversation Circle, book clubs, sewing club, teen volunteer opportunities and so much more. Do you want to learn another language? The library. Want a guide to a better diet, or a cookbook? The library. Want to score books to add to your ow library but at an inexpensive price? The Friends of the Library bookstore inside is also a gem. I've gone in a couple of times, but during the BOGO free sale, I left with about 20 books after going back and forth a few times once already at the register. It's convenient having a main library in such a convenient location. Parking isn't my bad, but if planning to spend more than five minutes in there it's easier for me to walk. The parking spots in the parking lot are too narrow and street parking is generally taken unless coming on a weekend.

    Photos
    Alameda Free Library - Walking upstairs next to a beautiful status in the middle

    Walking upstairs next to a beautiful status in the middle

    Alameda Free Library - Poetry display!

    Poetry display!

    Alameda Free Library - Super cute Totoro shadow box

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    Super cute Totoro shadow box

    Chabot College - Amazing show by The Bay philharmonic! Hee

    Chabot College

    2.8(147 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    My team and I performed at Prelude dance competition held at the Chabot College Performing Art…read moreCenter. Great staff and a beautiful stage. The campus is nice and there are lots of nice places to just enjoy the scenery. My only not is that there be a bigger dressing room only about one team could fit in it.

    Went to Chabot for my son's AAU games and didn't see the 8x11 sign that said Head in Parking Only…read more The guy who is head of parking was rude when he approached me to tell me I couldn't back in when parking. I honestly said I didn't see the signs, and with an attitude he said there are 10 signs. Where I parked, none of the signs were near me. The nearest sign was about 25-30 yards away. My kids and I also walked to the main gym where they played their games before, and once again I was met by the head of parking. He aggressively told my boys they shouldn't be opening random doors looking for their games. I asked him, did I miss the signs again because this is where they played last time. He said no and said the games were in a different building. I said, to help everyone, signs would be helpful, this way he wouldn't be irritated telling other parents to look for the other gym. We walked over to building 2900 like he told us too, and he yelled at me, my sons and other parents from across the swimming pool, telling us we were using the wrong door. It could have helped if he told us where to go. The door we tried opening was directly under the 2900 sign. I yelled back at him saying we are at building 2900 like he instructed. He replied back we needed to walk around the building. When we finally found the entrance it was 2940. I found this gentleman, very rude and aggressive with his approach. I am not sure if this is how Chabot wants to be represented to people in the community visiting. if any staff member is reading this, the gentleman I am talking about is a large heavy set African American who identifies himself as the head of parking and he drives a gray Infiniti SUV. Even if he is not part of Chabot College, simply being on campus and introducing himself as someone in an authority position makes it seem he works for the college.

    Photos
    Chabot College - High School Basketball tournaments.

    High School Basketball tournaments.

    Chabot College - Mezzanine

    Mezzanine

    Chabot College - Basketball Gym

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    Basketball Gym

    San Lorenzo Library - libraries - Updated July 2026

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