Adj: Oldie but Okie Dokie The Union City Library is one of the older library branches in the Alameda library system. It's nestled in a pretty quiet neighborhood and it's surrounded by a lot of greeneries and trees. It seems pretty popular on the afternoon when we stopped by for a visit. The building itself is at least several decades old and its age shows, but still ok. It's just one big room basically on the first floor, it's kind of wide open, the children's section is tucked away a bit on the left side as you enter and then the adults stacks occupy basically the rest of the space. The kids area is actually pretty cute. There's colorful tables and chairs as well as a painted story time area. It's warm and welcoming for little ones, but as a whole the kids section is pretty small. On the second floor, there's a small loft space that's dedicated to teens. Only teens are allowed to hang out and spend extended time there after school on weekdays, but anyone can go up there and browse. They have some games and snacks for teens and it's a cool space. However this branch is centrally located and gets utilized a lot from what I can observe, so it's still a perfectly functional and fully enjoyed library. They try to make the best use of the space, but it can't compare to the newer libraries in the Alameda County library system that have so much more square footage and some are even multi-story and just aesthetically and architecturally pleasing to the eye, and designed so well inside to be able to really cater to the needs of different patrons from young kids to the elderly. One really nice feature at Union City library though it's that all throughout the building, a ton of natural light is streaming in from windows all over the library, so it's a really warm and comfortable environment. Overall, the Union City library is definitely an older and smaller library in the AC library system, it's not bad, but there's many more far bigger and more extensive libraries that I prefer to visit. read more

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This location is a hidden gem. Courteous Staff members. Big play area for kids. And many events for kids that are not super crowded unlike other locations. I wish they had some focus study spaces too read more

Somehow always closed. Didnt know Abraham lincolns birthday was celebrated at the library how come they get the day off but students dont? always unreliable read more

Union City Library - library - Libraries Near Me - Union City, California

This is a nostalgic place for me to come and study - it's located near the high school and a number of restaurants and grocery stores, many of them Asian. There's a little pond here, with ducks and geese and the occasional reptile. There's also a skate park that's very popular with locals and City Hall is right next door. The library has open areas for study, though no private meeting rooms so I wouldn't recommend studying here as a group unless you can stay relatively quiet. There's a nice selection of children's and YA books, as well as a fiction section upstairs. Lots of outlets as well. A good place to drop by if you need a quiet place to study (though I'm sure it gets louder once the high school gets out) or want to check out a book or two. They also have different community-themed events available throughout the year, many of them geared towards kids. read more

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To cold on the first floor they need to heated up more the second floor is warm .But than this is very nice and clean l would recommend that you see it. I been to the other once too forwarded . It has a pond. read more

This library has been here as far as I remember and it's still standing. The longevity of this building is a testament of the community's thirst for knowledge. The building is definitely dated when you compare it to all the other libraries in Alameda county that have gotten some upgrades recently. Despite aesthetically looking like it's on its way to being obsoleted, the resources available are up to date and plentiful. The organization of their books is intuitive but even if you're lost, just ask a library resource staff and they can help you - many times, they'll walk you right up to the book you're looking for. The library has great staff and is almost always quiet due to the low foot traffic. It is right next to the high school so the parking lot can get hectic during drop off and pick up times. Otherwise, there's plenty of parking. If you're in search for a book or other media, check the website to confirm the location that carries it. It may save you a trip or two. Overall, I like the quaintness of this library but would look forward to a facelift if the county had the budget. Being right across the only high school in Union City, it deserves an upgrade to bring yet another bright spot to the city of compassion! read more

This Library is just okay and nothing special to be writing about. It is a very old building, Albeit made in the late 70's and this seems the vibe here and it is a very noisy Library I'll admit because it's designed just like an Amphitheater that any words you speak even just on Whispering!?...Its reverberating around the library even teenagers snickering that you could clearly hear it! This one of my pet peeves in any library and it really destroys your focus reading or doing something including studying and I really don't like this one of the reasons on why I go to libraries: For the silence and focus. I go here every now and then and when I hear teens coming!?....I know it's gonna be noisy and I immediately leave. read more

Very attentive and kind. All the ladies are top notch at make you feeling welcome with a smile and willing to help. Wifi, AC, comfortable small but cozy facility. Rich bunch of online resources for learning. So recommendable! read more

Union City Library is easy to miss. turn onto Nidus Ct., turn left at lst corner, pass the Police station, make left, proceed until the "Do not feed the wildfowl" sign is seen. at left of signs is the library. the library is quite small, holding periodical, fiction, non-fiction, teens, kids section all on the lst floor. not a lot of books, not too many tables. not an abundance of parking noticed. reads: "A Warning" (Anonymous: A Senior Trump Administration Official) -a revealing treatise about Trump, "Be Best" isn't an apt narration. read more

I use the comprehensive southern/eastern Alameda County Library app. Books delivered here from any other branch. It's pleasant & easy to get to ; and the staff is helpful. read more

This library is definitely not what it used to be. They put large wire fences around the pond that is located out front so it isn't as pleasant looking and there is still duck feces everywhere on the sidewalk and even the parking spots so park at your own risk. During school hours the parking can be scarce but thankfully the quick drop off parking spots seem to always be available to quickly drop off books in the shoot. The library has a typical library smell, it's always pretty full with older people and children. They have a group of computers at the front, surrounded with tables and the shelves of books are along the corridor. They also have an upstairs that has a bunch of chairs to enjoy your book on. Last I checked I know you can check out pretty much anything you need like books, magazines, movies, and even some laptops. If whatever you need isn't available you can always look it up and put it on hold and it will be held for you in the front. They recently upgraded their computers that check you out and they're very efficient and great. read more

Not one of the best libraries but it's a quality one nonetheless. The bathrooms are clean and smell nice every time and the workers are polite and helpful. Unfortunately, the upstairs isn't open to the public so there isn't much seating as before, but it's still a good place to sit down and work (though it might be hard to find seating during their busiest hours). Their book collection isn't infinite but it's satisfactory and they often have new books. read more

Union City Library - Libraries Near Me - Union City, California

This library is close by me and they have a great selection of books from many genres! I can't choose which books I love the most. I came here several times, and I wanted to check out more than the allotted that they allowed. You are able to check out a lot of books and the librarians help you understand the process and the genres that you want. It was extra work, but you get a lot of genres if you take the time and go through the catalog. My main genre is action, and so I check out a lot of action books. Just be careful not to get too many books , because if you lose it, you have to pay a fine. The outline of this library is really amazing, and it's really quiet. You get a lot of time to study and it's a place where you can feel safe and comfortable. I love this library! read more

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It's a small library that's good enough to study. Parents with kids are seen here alot.

Quiet place. I like this place because it is fun for me to look some books and other stuff.

This library has been the same since I was younger, though has had a slight decline in terms of cleanliness and organization. The pros: Free books (duh), quiet place to read and study, laptops you can check out, computers you can use, self service kiosk and other services. The cons: Location is rather small and a little musty. It always smells funky in there. Also they moved things around and now I can't find anything. The selection and variety of books is also rather small, but thank goodness for requesting books online and the e-library system. Overall, it's a half decent place to find some books and if you're lucky, some brand new books near the front entrance. It's really a hit or miss. More nostalgic than anything else. read more

One of the libraries close to my home. I recently just got a new library card because my old one expired (I didn't know they expire after 5 years lol). The lady on the phone was so patient and nice to explain how the holds work since it's been awhile I've checked anything out here. She told me that I'd get a notification within the week when my book is ready for pick up, but I had guess I seemed disappointed when I said I was hoping to pick up today in time for when I leave on vacation. She was the sweetest to go and check my hold, grab it from the shelf and fulfill my request so that I could go and pick up right away!! When I went inside, wow, layout wise nothing changed, but they updated their self check out machines which are nice! read more

This library is probably my favorite of the ones near where I live in Fremont, mostly because I think it has most of the things I'm looking for and is small but still gets the job done. I prefer it over Fremont Main Library because it's more intimate and everything is just on that one floor, and it's organized in a way that makes sense to me (subjective pro). It has an AMAZING DVD and Blue-ray collection (and I mean AMAZING), like they have so many newer movies and tv shows. Just went there today and they had all the seasons of NEW GIRL, THE POST (the one with Tom Hanks in it), a bunch of seasons of SUITS, PSYCH, 24, etc. Like just a bunch of stuff that you might pay for on Prime or try to torrent. I'm currently in this phase where I really love reading biographies/autobiographies of influential women (eg. Assata Shakur, Shonda Rhimes, Michelle Obama, etc.) and this library has a really great biography section against the wall, which I really appreciate. I would say that it's actually more updated and better than the Fremont Main Library's biography selection. This library also has a pretty good graphic novel section, I always have to hold back and not check out everything in this aisle. I like that it's not super crowded and I can get to everything I need, there's good sitting space. The only con I can think of for this place is that it's pretty loud (kids running around, screaming, etc.) I used to think this was weird (because when I was growing up, libraries were all supposed to be hush-hush), but every library I've visited recently (including Fremont Main) has been SUPER loud. I guess it's the new hot spot where kids can chill, so I wouldn't try to study here or anything. The books are great though! Digging the efficient express checkout machines. read more

Wait a minute, had a do a double check because this is one noisy library! After visiting the Fremont Public Library, UC Library is horrible in comparison. The sound echoes through the library, so I do not recommend this place to study, I repeat- this place is not a good place to study! The little kids that come to this library are rude and obnoxious! They play on the computer and are extremely LOUD. Do no expect to get any quietness from this library. They have an upstairs that houses a table with one outlet, and then a shared desk, with the seat closer to the wall having access to the power outlet. The loud noise from the first floor echoes because of the high ceiling. SO annoying. P.S. the librarians don't even tell the kids to be quiet. *Seriously, this library remind me of a daycare! Be aware! read more

I'm glad there's a library close to home but it's so crazy loud in here! There's never at least 5 minutes of quiet time. Sucks! I was here as soon as they opened at 10am on Monday and it got loud after 15 minutes. Not only were kids noisy but adults downstairs were loud too. The librarians didn't even tell them to keep it down or step outside. It was so distracting so we had to move somewhere else. These stars are mainly for the fun things around the library. There's a skate park, a playground, and a small pond nearby. I wouldn't come back here to study unless I have no other place to go. read more

First of all... I'm a Loganite from back in the 80s so I've had a relationship with this branch for a long time. Even as a troubled teen I loved this place. It's generally quiet, clean, and the staff is ever friendly. Sure, technology has been upgraded. The net connection is top notch and there's plenty of computer stations for those without laptops. UCL is an unappreciated gem in the area. That said, you know that scene from World War Z when the zombies are just starting to overrun the city? People are running all around, screaming for safety. That's how this branch is when James Logan High lets out. It's a mad house of teens socializing, playing music, and obsessing over TikTok. If you'd like to use the library I'd suggest getting out of there way before 4pm. You've been warned. read more

This has been my main library since I was in the 7th grade and it always has the same look. I used to look forward to play their Summer Reading Program as a child. Now, that I'm a mother, I bring my child to this library on a regular basis. He's an avid reader and now plays the Summer Reading Program just like I did. We do enjoy renting movies here as well. We also request and reserve books at the Help Desk and online as well. You can also renew books online. We've seen how you can borrow their iPads and laptops as well, for inside use only, and we have not had any experience with this. The parking is great if you come during off-peak hours (weekends and after 6pm) because the library shares a parking lot with the City Hall, Police Dept. and Park visitors. I do see that this library needs some updating like they should replace the stained carpets with easy-to-clean tiles. I think the musty smell comes from the carpet and the fact that there are not many windows here at all. The restroom also smells badly so I try not to use it all unless it's really necessary. I'm not sure if they do not have a budget for remodeling or that it will be a huge inconvenience for the people that utilizes this library on a daily basis. We like to go to their little deck area to watch the birds on the pond but there's a lot of bird poop all over the floor and chairs around that area so we try not to stay that long. As for the level of noise, I don't notice it as we do not hang out here to study. I like how they have some more room upstairs and a huge circular bench right outside of the library. This library is walking distance from the James Logan High School and, they also, conveniently have a mailbox just outside towards the street. There's also a nice pond, cute bridge, skate park and a regular park. It's a very nice setting all around. read more

Union City Library - Checking out books today! - Libraries Near Me - Union City, California

"Shh! It's a library" - Lori Beth Looking for a quiet place to read and study? Not the Union City Library. A small library. Hence, noise control is non-existent. I'm forgiving of the little kids enjoying their innocence or the babies crying making their mothers die of embarrassment. I'm talking about the annoying high schoolers who think they're so cool that they have friends and hang out at the library. Seriously, get yourself a job and chill at Starbucks. Now there are other high schoolers who thankfully have common decency. They are excluded from this criticism. However, the true culprit is the staff themselves. They should enforce the sign outside saying, "Entering Quiet Zone". What quiet zone? Constant talking actually comes from the staff themselves, and not talking in "five-inch voices" either. So really, why should you blame the patrons if the staff themselves are talking. I wish Lori Beth was my librarian. read more

I have fond memories of this library as I used to come when I was growing up. Now that I have my own kids, I bring them here because they share my love for reading (thank Goodness)!. After they pick their fave books we go outside and they like to look at all the duck and geese in the grassy area. A great escape when summer hits! read more

Man... I get it's a community library but I seriously felt like I time traveled to the 70s... a dirty 70s... library... dim yellow lighting, dirty carpets, dirty tables... not much room to find seating and after 3pm (i got in around 2pm) it gets PACKED with high school kids from the high school nearby, they aren't studying just there to hang out and chat so forget trying to get any work done read more

This is the library I grew up in, which is why I give it 4 stars. I went to the library every day after school, because it was right across from my high school (James Logan). I waited there for 1.5-2 hours for my mom to pick me up after working. They have a great selection of books and dvds. I also used to computers to go online and print. The hold system is amazing :) I even did community service there! One of the workers there, Sylvea, was super nice. I absolutely love her! She taught me how to do volunteer work around the library. The other workers definitely weren't as friendly as her. The library can get very loud and crowded because a lot of high school students go there. But upstairs is pretty quiet! I also remember the security guard. I did not like her. I remember seeing a kid laying on the ground, and she basically scolded him. And every time I did homework at the tables, she would stare at me... I couldn't concentrate! But you know what? A library's a library and it has been a big part of my life. You just gotta work with it! read more

Nearest library to home and a landmark for many of my runs. A good solid 4 miler to and from this library. It's not the newest. It's not the cleanest or freshest smelling, but I get what I need when I need it. This place hasn't changed one bit except no more VHS and more DVDs. The fiction is still on the second floor and the left side is still the kid's section. It's not the quietest library, so don't expect silence here. But if you're the type that needs some ambient noise, then this is the place. Also no private rooms so expect to get comfy and cozy with communal tables. I still like this place as it gives me a lot of sentimental thoughts. read more

So. This library isn't the best. Kids are running around. Its very noisy. Etc. but if you can sit up stairs and relax. I think you're okay. Personal Experience: They have free wifi and you can borrow an iPad or laptop for 2 hours for free also. I use that to help me study. They can also offer you some headphones so you can listen to your audio book, audio lesson, music, etc. that should drown out the sound of those kids. I'm really upset that on some days, the libraries wrong open until the 1-2pm. I wish it was open longer. With all the resources they have, it makes it up. The staff is kind and nice. 3 stars for good staff and resources but there's so much they can fix. read more

Union City Library - The outside sitting area. - Libraries Near Me - Union City, California

When I was a kid, I used to come here to feed the ducks. One day there were all these cute little ducklings walking about near the pond and I ran up and was able to catch them and hold them in my hands. They were chirping in alarm, probably sensing that I was a duck eating Chinese, but since they were so little, all they could really do is peep and extend their necks. SOOO CUTE. Their mom was kind of pissed and pecked me, but it didn't stop me from picking up her babies and molesting them until my mom made me leave. A few weeks later, my mom dumped me off here again since it's cheap babysitting and she wanted to eat lunch with her friends and get some grocery shopping done in peace. I was roaming around outside now, since I'm a rebel and I'm not afraid of CPS anymore. Anyways, I found a duck's nest with an egg hidden inside this little knot that the roots of a tree formed near the lake and I stole the egg D: I took it home and kept it warm and snuggled it up in lots of blankets and make sure I was always holding it, in hopes that it would hatch and soon I would have a baby duckling of my own! Oh the excitement of stupid children :) To my utter dismay, when I came home from school one day, the egg had "hatched" in a way. It had split in half, covering it's protective blankets with the stinkiest egg I've ever smelled. I think I spent the rest of that afternoon crying either under the dining room table or in the linen closet (My two favorite childhood crying spots) Anyways, besides that traumatic childhood experience, I liked this library a lot mainly for the little pond around it. It's smaller than Fremont Main, and the overall selection of books are smaller. The librarians weren't as friendly and they are less forgiving of fines. However, when I was 11 and internet was new and exciting, I was introduced to the world of being a nerd via finding a MUD to play. Yes. I went there. I was Kenna, the druid of Barren Realms. Via Telnet, and later zMUD, I was able to cast magic missile and healing hands to level up my little imaginary character on this text based game. God, I'm such a nerd. read more

The staff is friendly. When I was ready to check out books, there were two customers, each occupied a checkout machine. I went to one of the librarians and requested her to checkout books for me. Realizing her hesitant, I told her that the other two customers had a ton of books to check out. The library was closing. The librarian was happily helped me to check out my books even though it was not her job to do so. This library helped my kids to go through bore dome for the last 6 months or so because we could check out books from contactless services. read more

Whoever created the library system is simply a genius. I'm definitely all for supporting anything that provides education for the community. That being said, this library is quite small and often has a very musty feel in it. Although I haven't spent much time in it - literally a return, checkout and go type-of-visit - I do enjoy how the books are usually in order. The staff members are pretty nice as well and will help you if you have questions! Also LINK+! If you know anything about it, it's probably just the most amazing thing ever created. Any book is at the tips of your fingers, so long as you go online and request it. BAM, it's there is a few days. Such a great service! But as for the UC Library as a whole, I'd say it is pretty loud. Whether it's inconsiderate people or screaming children, this library is no place to study for finals. It feels a little cramped and if you're claustrophobic, that could affect your studying as well. BUT I'm glad that UC has its own library! This is better than nothing. :) I'll be back for sure, mostly because I have books due in a few weeks. No late fees for me! read more

- First off it's kinda hidden and difficult to find if you're not familiar with the area already - The parking isn't great because the lot is shared with the police station and the way it's shaped means it's rare to find a spot near the actual library. - If you're gonna be there for more than two hours then you're going to have to get a permit from the reference desk. (Although after 5pm you don't need one). - One of the smallest libraries I've ever been in. So everything is pretty crowded and the upstairs is more just like a balcony. - Limited tables and there are only about 2-3 tables that have access to outlets. - The restrooms are one-person only ones, which is fine but it was DISGUSTING. Can't believe I'm saying this but even some Bart restrooms have been in a better state... + Library hours are a bit longer compared to other public libraries + The lady at the reference desk was really nice about answering any questions I don't think I'll be coming back here for any reason unless I absolutely have to. The Fremont library is AMAZING in comparison. Even if I was from Union City I would take the drive to go there instead. read more

I have a deep affection for all kinds of libraries. And I appreciate it when librarians make the best of what they've got. Although the layout and lighting can be improved a bit, this is a great place for all your basic information needs. I noticed a lot of computers, and managed to snag an outlet extension to plug my laptop into. There were also signs for a free tutoring service, which I thought was pretty great. Libraries can offer the community a wealth of resources, and it's usually gratis. Tonight, I needed a place to work on my final final final assignment, but Borders and Paddy's were packed. I immediately thought of the library and this one did not fail me. And by coming here, I didn't have to spend money on extra calories (coffee, cookies) that I don't need. There's free wi-fi for library card holders, which I am not. But I had my wireless internet card (lifesaver) so that didn't matter. I was able to work on my assignment, turn it in, and then go off to enjoy Iron Man with Cal. Hopefully that was the last assignment that I will ever turn in for the MLIS program. *crosses fingers* It was a good night, and I have the Union City Library to thank. read more

I usually come here to work in the afternoon for 2 hours. There's limited of space in the parking lot. You can only park for a maximum of 2 hours and then you have to move your car. I don't like how they did that, but looking at the parking spaces and how limited it is, it makes sense. The parking spots down in SoCal are much bigger so that's why there isn't a time limit. I also dislike their library hours. They are usually open at 1PM on most of the days and sometimes 10AM (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday). I always thought libraries would usually be open around 9AM or 10AM everyday but I guess that's only in SoCal. This library is a bit smaller so i guess it makes sense to have a later time. Other than that, the library is great! There's a small second story that I usually go up to and do my work. Most of the time, it's pretty quiet. Since school is back in session, students would go to the library and hang out so it can get pretty loud when school is done. Make sure you come at the right time or it'll get busy and loud. The reason I like coming here is because of the free WIFI! It's great to have free wifi! I can get out of my house and work at the library. I don't have to be stuck at home! Sucks that i only stay for 2 hours because of the parking, but at least I can get out of my house for a couple of hours. There's also a couple of tables to work at and plugs to charge your laptop! read more

talk about a circus! Very loud, messy, kids screaming and running all over the place. Not my idea of a library at all. Its almost as if people have no respect for other people anymore. The library is very small as well. read more

I came to this library for the first time to peacefully study, but that was a HUGE mistake. It is so unbelievably loud here...if you want peace, don't come to this place. I can't and don't understand why it is not a requirement for it to be quiet within the confines of this building. If you close your eyes, you might actually think you're at a restaurant. The parking lot is much quieter. I was asked to get up from a table so that it could be moved for a show scheduled an hour later? Parents teach their children absolutely NO respect and/or etiquette, as they were louder than their children. Other libraries are either closed or inconveniently located. Alameda County should do better. read more

Stephanie S. and I came here twice a week during the summer to get some work done. Since the parking lot is shared with the police station, it could be completely filled until after 5:30p. (We had to park across the street in the neighborhood a few times if we got there at 5p.) The Union City Library is just okay in my book because the building is noticeably old and the chairs/tables are a bit worn out. Definitely not one of the places I'd stay for hours to study or get work done. But it's not bad if you just need a place with wifi! read more

More like a nursery or playground at times than a library. Not a good place to study if you can't drown out the noise of screaming kids. I will say that the staff here are friendly! The selection of books is not large at all. The upstairs area is riddled with preteens playing video games. Hardly any outlets near tables for studying on laptops. Id rather go to hayward library. read more

Great selection of books, movies, etc. I used to always come here with my study buddies and one time, this lady told us to be quiet because apparently we were being loud. Pssssh. Yes, I understand it's a library but come on, we were studying and there were other people being loud and playing cards! read more

This library is tucked away in the William Cann Civic Center. It has a nice surrounding, but inside it can be a little dark. The library is minimal compared to the Fremont Main Library. I usually go here only if a book I'm looking for is here. Stil, it can also act as a nice gettaway on the weekends when you just need a nice secluded place to read a book.. or sometimes to just peruse for a book. The hours are very random: Sunday : 1:00 - 5:00 pm. Monday: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Tuesday & Thursday: 1:00 pm. - 8:00 pm. Wednesday: 10:00 am. - 8:00 pm. Friday: 2:00 pm. - 6:00 pm. Saturday: 10:00 am. - 5:00 pm. read more