This library is located on a diamond strip of land between two one way streets. It kinda gives it this beacon of knowledge vibe that I really liked (even if I did almost miss the turn in to the parking lot which would've made it tough to circle back & get in to). The staff here is friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. However, it's a bit smaller of a location which means it's a bit tougher to find a place to work. Especially on busier times. I know a lot of the other reviews point out the unhoused who use this location for various facilities and resources, but I believe that they have every right to be there as I do and it should be just as much of a resource to them as it is to me. I didn't feel unsafe at all. read more

We love this library especially for the kids book selection. We check a stack of books out every week and rarely get stuck with books we don't like. The best part is coming on Friday's so we can hit up the farmers market next door after we're done grabbing books. 10/10 read more

Not a great library, there is not a lot of room to sit down, most of the chairs were taken over by people who sit there all day and are unhoused. They have a large teen section, but you are not allowed to sit there if you are an adult Even when it is late evening and there are no teens at all in the building. read more

Nice library and very spacious too, almost like the Santa Monica one. They have lots of old books and magazines. My only problem with this one is the amount of homeless people camped inside and out of the library. Staff are professional and cool. They need more structure in handling the amount of people they let use the library. read more

Let's start with I've been meaning to visit this library since bookstores and libraries everywhere are my favvvv. My last library visit was in Montecito and I adore that space. I walked across the Venice canals and then was greeted by an abundance of homeless encampments. I crossed over them and entered the front door. The smell of people not bathing immediately hits your nostrils. There isn't a singe seat or space available to sit anywhere, it's overrun by folks who basically charge their phones here, and have free heating and AC and a place to live. I attempted to digital card catalogue search. On a seemingly unattended computer. A homeless woman, sneared at me and said loudly, it's taken! On my way out, I headed to the restroom to wash my hands, the place has an unsanitary feeling. And a woman was basically bathing in there: washing her face and brushing her teeth. Guys it's basically a homeless shelter. It was a depressing and awful visit. Stay away if you can or visit the Santa Monica library! This place needs a clean up, ASAP! Sadly; Wish I could've stayed and read a chapter and enjoyed an environment of knowledge. read more

Venice - Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library - Indoor - Libraries Near Me - Venice, California

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Shout out to the Venice Abbot-Kinney Public Library for being the only public restroom in Venice. They also have a nice collection of books, digital media, and even free phone chargers. Yes, they do have a lot of homeless library patrons (who every time I have gone are minding their own business and not bothering anyone). They have security there's always a cop car parked out front. Public libraries are for everyone not just for the housed and well off in society. Public libraries are a third space and they provide so many free and public services for everyone who walks through their doors. If the reminder of unhoused people existing in society bothers you, then do something about it instead of just complaining. read more

Beautiful library with an abundance of natural light - best feature! Nice, medium size. Well organized and clean. Cookbook collection is on the small side, but emphasizes immigrant, ethnic books which I love. Large parking lot. Security inside the library, but not intrusive. Friendly and walking around regularly to keep a safe feeling environment. read more

Venice - Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library - gorgeous abundance of natural light - Libraries Near Me - Venice, California

Employees here are mean and rude. We return a book that was one page ripe out (which was almost all the way torn but my daughter was not careful and they almost jump down our throat about paying for the book or a fine. Yes I will pay whatever fee but please be kind. We are not criminals just live books. Geez, that's what you get when you donate and purchase from them. read more

I used to visit this library often when I lived nearby in Santa Monica. I'm an Architecture fan and rank this most interesting looking library in the city of LA(that I've visited). The window design also creates very nice natural lighting. The book selection is larger than average and the staff is excellent. There's also plenty of parking. Top ten LA library. read more

We've used this branch of the Los Angeles City Library a handful of times over the last fifteen years or so. It's OK. Access parking from the westbound lanes of Venice Blvd. read more

My usual branch is the one in Playa, although it's so small I usually have to come here or have the books I want delivered. But I couldn't wait so I tried this place out. It has its own parking lot. The front of the building had some jobs hanging out. The lobby has a lot of notices- bulletin boards and tables with fliers about what's going on. Nothing seemed interesting. It's dimly lit and desperately needs a renovation or at least a deep cleaning. The entire building reeks of pee. There is a section where you can buy $1 books. I did see a young girl putting up decorations to brighten the place. A librarian did ask me if I needed helped but then felt judged when she showed me where the book was. There's also a computer section but they seem germy. And a lot of couches and chairs meant for reading but it was mostly homeless looking people napping. It was hard to get to the sections since they were splayed out. While there is a lot of book (probably the only good thing about this) I don't really want to come back here. I wanted to sit and read in a cozy spot. But this place was just too gross. I ended up checking out right away and reading in my car until my next appointment. It's really not the place to spend an afternoon. But if you can handle it, it's decent to stop in and grab what you need. read more

Venice - Abbot Kinney Memorial Branch Library - Entrance - Libraries Near Me - Venice, California

This library is a bit small, but pleasantly quiet with a few nice wooden, round tables for reading or getting work done. The children's section is nice, not ideal for toddlers, but probably best suited for elementary through middle school, with a nice collection of children's literature. There is also quite an array of DVD's and music. There are some rough around the edges looking people here, but no one is talking out loud to themselves or bothering anyone, so all is good. read more

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Do not come here. Horrible customer service and it smells musty and it's filled with homeless people and rude workers. Oh, not to mention, I also loved that there was a "mom" that was starring me down the whole time, bitches that stare get on my damn nerves. Bye. read more

Many people I know don't really like going to libraries anymore. For some reason it is a thing of the past and many people our age would rather go and buy a book and sit at a nice coffee shop. For me I like doing both and this library even though it is small, I still enjoy my time being able to read and sit somewhere nice and quiet. Parking isn't really hard to find most of the time this parking lot is actually quite empty. For being a beach city this library has a nice feel inside. Modern and up to date I believe they did some remodeling since many libraries I been to don't really look like this. Nice natural light comes in and while reading you sometimes just get lost and can be sitting around for hours. Do something that you once did when you were a child and see how it feels...It truly can change you. read more

A good library with its own parking lot. It isn't usually too filled up either. Inside, the library is a little dark. There are a few homeless or close to homeless people here... but they don't usually bother anyone. The employees are super nice. read more

This location is somewhat small, but does boast a pretty decent selection of novels, graphic novels and DVDs. You can look up what you want on lapl.org and if it's only available at another Los Angeles branch you can have it brought the one you go to. There's free Wi-Fi, a corner with computers that the public can use, and a pay-per-print machine. The staff is pretty helpful and there is plenty of parking. The library is filled with locals, sometimes they are a little 'ripe' from not having showered so choose carefully where you decide to locate. That said, I dig the vibe here, very real. read more

Pros: My family totally loves this library. Talk about a wonderful trully community oriented resource! The library is always clean and punctual. The public service offerings for the community (especially those focused on children (science education activities, lego play, free piano lessons, Harry Potter parties/events) are always well thought out and amazing. Rachel, Daniela (?) and the rest of the staff are super bright and engaging. This is truly a gem in the LA Public library system w/ the library's collection (children and adult) well organized and laid out in a user friendly manner. Library is a quiet and ideal family resource for Venice and its surrounding communities. Highly recommended. Cons: Not much. I guess their periodicals section could be bigger and they could have more a few more printers available. read more

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Cons: 1) NOISY. People talk cellphone inside the library. Some watch videos without using their headphones. No rules. Nothing. read more

I love libraries. For all the usual nerdy reasons. But now I avoid this library. The main problem is that it's fairly over-run with homeless people using it as their day-hang. Now, homeless people have the same civil rights you do, but it does make for a less-than savory experience, in terms of sharing space re smell, or using the restroom. Another drawback is the general disrespect people show to his library . One example is how there seems to be a relatively high level of theft, re books, DVDs, etc. The item shown online as existing in the stacks has a fair chance of not being there. But the main reason I'm writing today is the fact that: if you return DVDs, you can expect THOSE to be stolen too! TWICE this has happened to me, I returned a handful of DVDs ON TIME - and they just went missing! The first time, I had to argue that I had in fact just dropped them all off the previous week. I am meticulous about that. To their credit, they (finally) believed me. But when it happened a SECOND time, and cost me $28 in fines - because I didn't dream this was a CHRONIC problem - that was too much. When YOU return items here - GET A RECEIPT. Do NOT just drop them off - they will be STOLEN and YOU will be FINED. This library's own staff can't be trusted (or maybe patrons stealing when the staff aren't looking, who knows?) Never have I seen this happen anywhere else. Sad! read more

The library is located right in between north and south Venice blvd, and what looks like an abandoned park. The parking lot is a lot more spacious than the other libraries in the area. It forms sort of its own little island in the middle of the paralleling streets. From the outside, it looks to be a pretty cute place. Unfortunately, this was not really a good and peaceful place to study or read. The interior of the library is more on the dim side. There were only round tables placed here and there. I tried to concentrate but was distracted by screaming children at the kids section. The parents made no attempt to quiet them down. A few minutes later, the librarians came by to spray air fresheners all over the air to try to counter the pungent smell from some of the homeless walking around. Then I felt as though I was studying in a bathroom. Not sure if my experience was the exception or the norm but I probably won't be coming back here. The librarians seemed really nice though. read more

I love this library! And I have been coming here for years. I am surprised at all the reviews mentioning the homeless. Must be people who lead very sheltered lives. Yes there are often some homeless around (as in most of L.A) but I have never seen them bother anyone and have not noticed a smell. I'm glad to see them reading. The overwhelming vibe I get is of a friendly, helpful, bright and cheery place. The staff are all nice and willing to help. The kid's section is particularly inviting. And parking is easy. They also have many "extra" events. The story hour and kids programs always seem popular from what I've observed (sadly my daughter is too old now for me to take to these things!) And they even started having yoga classes recently! For free! (although I have donated to the Friends of the Venice Library because I think they do good work.) read more

I have had my cell phone Stoien while security was there_ also I have 2 books stolen that I wanted to buy stolen by the staff I want to see the camera footage from yesterday between noon and 3Pm the proof is in the footage unless the camera are fake.Wow unbelievable Library. Security why do they pay him. I will tell you what they say tomorrow. read more

This library has extraordinary employees who are community minded and humanistic. They can get you any book you need and see if books that you want can be ordered. They're always great events there like the Venice Art Crawl,Free Pilates, yoga, poetry readings, loads of children's activities. Community meetings are often held there. read more

This branch is somewhat small, but does boast a pretty decent selection of novels, graphic novels and DVDs. You can look up what you want on www.lapl.org and if it's only available at another Los Angeles branch you can have it brought the one you go to. There's free Wi-Fi, a corner with computers that the public can use, and a pay-per-print machine. The staff is pretty helpful. Some are more smiley than others but they'll all help you the best they can. There's also a kids activity area and a meeting room that hosts several activities per week. I've never attended any of the library functions though some look interesting and can be seen in their website. read more

I can't say much about the actual library, since I technically don't live around the area, nor do i visit this place that often.... But from what I saw when I was there for their book sale, it seemed decent. (also, i cant say much for the homeless smell because i went early morning when it was cold and really, there's never a lot of smell when it's chilly outside. :-P ) Anyways, as i said, I usually go on the days they have their book sales. (once every few months) $1 for hardcovers or trade paperback fiction, and 50 cents for mass market paperback fiction. SO CHEAP! :D I love the sale because they have a pretty wide selection of books. They have a long row of tables outside in the front full of boxes with books (also underneath the tables), AND they have a whole room dedicated to more books for sale INSIDE. on top of the massive amounts of books shoved into that one room, they even have THREE bookshelves dedicated to hardcover books in decent to great condition.. IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER!!!! (by author) WHICH NEVER HAPPENS AT THESE SALES! The staff, I believe, are all volunteers, and are all super nice. If you have a chance, you should definitely check out their book sales. Next one is 3/12/11!! Count on me being there, scourging for my next books! -- i ALWAYS seem to find something there. read more

This library is OK, but there are much better ones within a few miles. Strengths: It has decent lighting, a very friendly staff and lots of used books for sale. Its proximity to the canals means that I'll be back as I love walking around that area every so often. The problems: Homeless people congregate inside and in front of the library, often leaving odorous bags of belongings right in front. The children's area isn't the cleanest and it isn't well secluded from the rest of the library, a big concern given the problem just mentioned. read more

The homeless have taken over the parking lot and get very aggressive if you try and park your car close to them. When I went to complain to the supervisor she took their side. When you try to reason with them a bunch of them start defending each other. Didn't feel safe. One guy living in a uhaul has his door open. I kindly asked him to close his door a little so I could park. He got aggressive and asked me to park somewhere else. His other friend in a van said I was rude for asking an old guy to move. I'm trying to pick up someone at the library. I don't need to be yelled at for trying to park. read more

It's nice to have a library in that location. The elder lady is kind of rude there, sorry to say. If you look at my reviews you'll see a lot more positive than negative so I don't think I'm being unreasonable. I waved to her while leaving for the night and she gave me some kind of annoyed "Get out of here!" waving her hands upwards. I can understand getting short of patience with some of the "customers" at that library. But lady, I ain't the one.... read more

i really wanted to like this place and stuck it out as long as i could, but just couldn't do it. i came with the intentions of spending a quiet afternoon studying, but had to leave after an hour because my malodorous neighbors were too much to handle and the constant din of chatter too distracting. great that there is parking, but i rode my bike and was even a little nervous about leaving it chained up outside. unfortunately, i won't be returning, but i gave it two stars because public libraries are just a good thing. read more

Very nice library! It's clean, they have computers to use, movies, cds, dvd and books! They also have great community programs like movie nights, sound healing, yoga and children's events. The people who work/volunteer there are also very nice and helpful. No attitude at the Venice library. read more

I recently came in around the late afternoon and found most of the "librarians" unavailable or I just felt ignored. However, there was a nice young lady, tall and with a warm, friendly disposition who was shelving books but stopped to assist me. In this generation of youngsters, it was nice to talk to a young lady who was obviously brought up right, with manners! read more

A shout out to Rachel for providing the pilates class taught on Friday mornings by an excellent instructor, Lee. She is funny, kind and attentive to all the people who attend the class. A friend told me about this class, and I have told other friends. Have been attending ever since and enjoying the people as well as the class. Just hope that the class will continue. It is a great service to the community, and I applaud efforts to keep our minds as well as our bodies healthy and fit! read more

I would like to get give warm and thankful to Rachel at the venice library what a blessing she was for us we are out of town with no computer with us my daughter was applying for a job closing today with no resume and an angel named Rachael can to our assistant she helped type a resume for my 20 year old and guided us on how to get this sent to the job interview before it closed by end of today. I,can't thank Rachael enough for her assistant. God will surely bless her for what she has done. Paying it forward thank you so much Warmest regards Melissa Cornelius from north carolina I hope to run into you again. read more

Although it may be annoying that a lot of the times the outlets are taken and it makes it difficult to work with a laptop... I do appreciate the convenience of this library to the Venice community. Another plus is the fact that they do have FREE PARKING!! A lot of the libraries around LA do not offer that. read more

I don't go here for the endless screaming children. I don't go here for the folks parked at the computers as if it is their personal Starbucks. I don't go here for the odeur du jour. I don't go here for the interior of bad flourescent lighting, metal shelving et al that harks back to 1965. What I like about this place can be summed up in seven letters: p-a-r-k-i-n-g. Just look at that beautiful, spacious lot. Oh and for some unknown, some might say mysterious, reason, this was the only library in the LAPL system that carried my police detective sleuthing novel that I needed to kick off the series. read more

My daughter and I had a wonderful experience there with the piano lessons. The teacher was very knowledgeable and caring. I highly recommend this library for all the amazing services they offer and their thoughtful and skilled staff. read more

What I love about this library is that its not just about books. Rachel, the program director, has many events for all ages scheduled every month. There are classes all month long: meditation, yoga, pilates and even how to make flavored vinegars. I find all the teachers to be friendly and experienced and the students range in age from 20's to 70's. It really is a lovely community.I am so grateful to have such an inspiring place in my neighborhood! read more

Pretty run down. Play rugs are dirty. Lots of books and toys left all over the floor. They had a nice story time happening, but the area was quite crowded already with not many children, to where my kids couldn't participate. read more

Thanks to the Venice Library, I have been taking a pilates class for the past few weeks. It's on Friday from 11:30-12:30. Lee is the instructor. She incorporates a lot of humor which helps tremendously for beginners like me. It's well worth the small donation to be a member of Friends of the Library. And, they can always use the extra donations to continue this project and others. Thanks to the staff at the Venice Library. -Linda Laisure read more

I am saddened to have to give such a low rating to a place that I used to frequent with my young child. There are some great people working here, and they have some nice programs (chess club, etc). However, the homeless problem mentioned by others has become much more than smelly and inconvenient. That I could tolerate to some degree. The homeless people I saw there a few days ago (with their luggage in tow) practically outnumbered the others. The worst part is that these homeless people were angry and shouting at eachother and others. There was an armed security guard evicting some of them, but it was scary for my child and me. If homeless people are to frequent public libraries they need to observe the same rules as everyone else, quiet and courtesy. We won't be returning to this library. read more