Presentation on Map Reviews Nearby

Castro Valley Library in Castro Valley

4.6 (86) 3600 Norbridge Ave, Castro Valley, CA 94546, United States

Categories

Public library

Location on the map

Castro Valley, Alameda County, California, US

Phone: +1 510-667-7900
Site: https://aclibrary.org/locations/CSV

Opening hours

Monday:12–8 PM
Tuesday:12–8 PM
Wednesday:10 AM–6 PM
Thursday:10 AM–6 PM
Friday:Closed
Saturday:10 AM–5 PM
Sunday:1–5 PM

Edit info

Total reviews rating 4.6

86 Reviews for Castro Valley Library 2024:

Review №1

2023-08-20 00:02:56

This library is nice and clean. The setup is really good for all. You have the adult side and the childrens side. The activities for kids are really nice for young children.

Review №2

2023-09-02 18:38:18

Great library where you can find lots of books. There’s teen room where you can study or research in a quiet environment.

Review №3

2023-11-02 03:30:31

This review is only based upon one persons actions and attitude which almost led to disaster. That place will be better off when they retire very soon.

Review №4

2023-12-10 01:38:18

This library is a little bougie especially for it being a little rundown. Hayward library is better.

Review №5

2017-03-21 06:03:13

Clean and nice library! Usually has what you are seeking or you can easily place it on hold. Has self check out machines which convenient. I honestly had to remind myself to use the library. Its so easy to just order a book on Amazon but I had to think why am I buying when I could just borrow! Well lesson learned! Use your local library!!!

Review №6

2023-06-01 18:43:09

Its a nice libraryNOTE however they dont have bookable small conference rooms, just the larger group event rooms

Review №7

2017-10-17 23:54:14

Friendly librarians, computers for public use, open tables for collaboration, large childrens section, teen room, reference librarian and materials. Most space is designated for talking, but there are traditional quiet areas in the corners.The library fills up with students when school gets out so table space is limited from 3:30 to 6:00 p.m. Parking may be difficult around 4:00 p.m. for the same reason. Library hours are different on different days of the week.

Review №8

2018-05-11 11:07:04

Really nice modern library in Castro Valley. A lot of seating areas, available laptops to borrow, free monthly movies and events. There is a wonderful bookstore connected to the library that sells CDs, DVDs, books and magazines for cheap. Nice place to read a book, look up information on the internet or do some homework.

Review №9

2019-11-06 21:17:42

This library is so nice and quite and its such a great experience coming to this place. Really nice and modern with a lot of seating area and huge windows. Its so spacious with a great selection. And the staff here are wonderful, always ready to help you out and answer any questions you have. I would highly recommend visiting this library. You wont be disappointed.

Review №10

2022-08-09 06:04:03

First time in over 12 years. Treated me like a daily visitor. Within no time I had a replacement library card. Up to speed on using wireless network.

Review №11

2017-06-24 18:10:59

Great library. Clean and neat. It would get 5 stars if it opened earlier, had a few more study tables for people with laptops, and supported a library quiet atmosphere. Parents have children so loud you can hear them all the way in the back. It sometimes feels like a childrens camp. An alternative is to allow people in the study rooms/quiet rooms to block the noise.

Review №12

2020-06-11 04:26:12

I will never again study at a library that is not culturally sensitive to African American culture. I have been going to this library for about 2 years and I have not once seen any African-American events or a display for African-American awareness month for February. In addition, this library only caters to certain race /ethnicity groups, which I feel does not serve all of the populations that utilize their library services. Therefore, I do not recommend this library for anyone of color who wants to better themselves and find representation in books they read. I hope in the future this library starts to acknowledge Black authors and create a cultural awareness display for Black History Month. Overall, this library should focus on representing each culture based on the awareness month not just the ones they feel are important. Thank you and I have cut up my library card and will not be returning.Response to reply on 3/3/19p.s Having a small African American display in the back of the library is not enough. It should have been in the front for all patrons to see! I have noticed how the important information and displays are always available in the front of the library. PLEASE DO NOT WASTE MY TIME WITH YOUR EXCUSES!!June 2020 Post Update-I wrote this post two years ago when I felt that Black Lives did not matter at this library or even the City of Castro Valley. After a year of boycotting this library, I did notice in February 2020 that they tried to implement more multicultural events especially for Black history month. That is why it is important when this library opens its door again to continue making progress in amplifying all marginalized groups from their books,art displays, events, and even the staff that work there. This conversation must stay alive for everlasting change to happen in this community!

Review №13

2022-04-06 03:13:06

Great little library. The volunteers sell books daily and hold 3 annual weekend book sales. Also, if you have never checked out the LINK arrangement with other libraries, you owe it to yourself to learn about it and use it.Currently masks are required, the volunteers are back and attendance is still noticeably less than before COVID.

Review №14

2019-04-22 07:24:02

It is a big, beautiful, and modern library. The only problem is parking. Some of the spaces are too narrow. You can park but you can not get out. Even if you slim. I notice that some people take two spaces and I dont blame them. Also, n some parking spaces the plants are on the way and make it hard to get out. I understand they try to maximize the number of parking spaces, but in the long run they make it worse.

Review №15

2016-12-05 23:49:44

Great design. Great layout. Great extended hours. Great friendly quiet crowd. Youll get 5 stars if you actually scrub clean the furniture. I saw the cleaning lady walking around with a feather duster tickling the computer monitors. I bit my tongue but I wanted to tell her about this grime I was trying not to rest my arms on. Next time I see her Ill embarrass her by pointing out how shes not actually cleaning and that she should quit playing with the feather duster like shes some kind of French maid. Show me the 409 and Ill spray and wipe down my area. This place needs to raise her wage that way shell actually clean.

Review №16

2016-03-27 22:48:57

Wow...The library I grew up with was a little one room converted school house. I think I must have read pretty much every book in it. This library is awesome. Its large, has a great selection, yet still feels cozy and has neighborhood charm. I cant wait to start taking my newborn son here in a year or two.

Review №17

2017-02-15 04:39:29

Well organized collection in a modern (2009) building. The childrens area is large with several desks, tables and computer terminals for homework and studying. The library is relatively noisy after school when tutors and parents are working with kids, and older kids are working in groups. Staff is helpful and courteous.

Review №18

2019-11-19 04:46:38

Huge kid area. Love being able to pick up books Ive requested online that they have set aside at the front. You can check out museum passes. If they dont have a book you want, they will borrow it from another library. Whats not to love?

Review №19

2018-02-26 23:45:24

This review is for this librarys Job Lab program. Firstly, this service is amazing; its free, you can print job stuff from their laptops, they have current samples of resumes, cover letters, and interview questions, etc. Secondly, and most importantly, the Job Lab volunteers are incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. One thing to note is that job help is offered on a first-come basis, so you may have to wait a little before someone can spend 1:1 time with you; once someone does, its worth your time!

Review №20

2018-08-16 23:58:02

If I could not even give 1 star for the library staff I would!The staff needs to remember that when they are dealing with the public that they should all take a class on respect and communication.When you are explaining anything to anyone of any particular subject then you must be courteous, professional and especially polite with due respect. Not take whatever your emotions are and reflect them on to the public. I felt as if I were in the mean public school system being talked about and bullied! I realized when I brought my little baby Chihuahua in there that it wasnt the best idea due to the policies. I had to turn in my books on this particular date and it was very hot outside so I could not for the life of me leave my precious cargo in the car. I held him the whole time and didnt even try to do anything else but turn them in and ask a question when I disgruntle employee with blond hair came out and started to tell me about my pet and I calmly replied I understood meaning I knew it was wrong but I really in my heart had no other way but to take him in for a second or two to ask a question and turn in my things. I thought she would know I was an adult and completely understood her but NO! She had to rant at me 3 more times while some other disgruntle looking lady and other staff started to stare at me. This is totally unprofessional in the way that it was clear, cut and dry that I understood her but for some reason she had to drive it home with a bulldozer.I just told myself that she and the rest of unprofessional staff member who were glaring over had more going on in their lives than me and to forgive them for not being very Christ like. I will never ever be comfortable to seek any information from any of those who dont really know what its like to work with others in a public setting and know that they are truly representing the whole community. We have enough going on in this world we live in today and just need folks in our own community to treat one another with some respect and decency. Sorry for this but I feel it is important that we say something instead letting them think they can treat others in this manner as well and represent the library in this way. If I knew their names I would have put it in this review as well.

Review №21

2020-06-08 13:10:53

I love this library. It is closed right now because of the covide 19 pandemic. This is a state of the art library. It is a state library rather than a city library. That means if you dont live in Castro valley you wont be charged for a card, or to use their equipment. This library has the best collection of DVD and CDs I have ever seen. They have at least 6 computers fully ready with internet, and printers. Their check out is done with a scanned code, and computers. They have a large and well stocked childrens section, complete with little chairs and tables. The parking is spacious. They have books in other languages. They have a book shop. They have a cute cafe that sells great coffee. I just cant wait till they open.

Review №22

2021-08-21 21:01:11

Went for the outdoor Bookstore Book Sale held each Saturday morning. Always glad to support Friends of the Castro Valley Library. A quick visit to check new books in the library itself. Not busy, 11am.

Review №23

2023-04-20 00:49:45

Excellent source of FREE BOOKS, DVDS & LIBRARIANS WEALTH OF KNOWLEDGE to help you navigate ALL THE FREE STUFF!

Review №24

2018-03-09 23:42:48

A true gem.I absolute LOVE this library! You can catch me in the back in the quiet area enveloped with great reads like Jared Diamond, Michelle Alexander, Neal Gabler, Murakami, Mark Levin or Fitzgerald. I love getting a seat facing the window, it offers a good break from reading/studying. I always sit facing the window bc of the views. The windows are huge and offers natural light to enter in and is even more beautiful on a rainy day.

Review №25

2023-05-31 23:53:16

Pretty library, great librarians, great community gathering locations

Review №26

2012-11-19 01:59:41

My boys and I love this library. It is bright and functional. There are outlets on table to plug in my laptop, ipad and phone; I am a multi-tasking working mother. While my kids play I get serious work done, we feel safe.

Review №27

2021-08-15 22:16:10

Library is spacious and bright. I did not get to make full use of it because I was there for a special training. The facilities look nice. 👌👍

Review №28

2015-03-09 17:20:43

An exceptionally well-designed and well-run library. There is an automatic checkout AND return system that is very convenient. The location is also great. It is in the center of town but is removed from any other businesses.

Review №29

2018-03-24 23:36:25

I enjoy the environmental concerned design of the landscape and building. I also appreciate all the friendly and helpful librarians and staffs here. I like the preown bookstore and their annual book sales too!

Review №30

2022-09-06 18:45:37

Worst hours ever! Open at 12p? Closed on Fridays? I love it because its close to my house but the hours are terrible.

Review №31

2015-10-21 06:41:09

Made my first trip last week on account of the aforementioned reviews. And it took just that one trip to make a lasting impression. You wont be disappointed. A model facility.

Review №32

2022-02-28 00:24:37

I love that you can request books online and pick them up at this library. It’s such a special place!

Review №33

2017-02-16 05:33:46

Beautiful spacious library with very helpful staff. Good collection and nice Friends used book store. Very nice public meeting rooms.

Review №34

2015-11-17 16:39:41

Its one of our little towns treasures. The staff is helpful and the facility is beautiful. Our circulation is just ok but getting better year after year.

Review №35

2022-06-20 22:41:44

Always love this quiet wonderful place. I can stop in get a book and an hour or so of sanity.

Review №36

2016-02-14 09:04:41

So many homeless people around, I was there yesterday and this homeless guy was watching porn with volume high! I mean this is just ridiculous! Why would you give them computer so they could watch these sort of stuff anyways.

Review №37

2022-07-18 05:30:09

Great library. A lot of books and resources. And plenty of activities for kids and adults.

Review №38

2015-06-10 21:35:20

The new Castro Valley Library is great...BUT why oh why have they not seen fit to alphabetize the childrens book section by author like EVERY other library everywhere? Its beyond frustrating!

Review №39

2020-01-18 17:19:53

Wonderful building, warm welcoming staff, a plethora of books, movies, activities and computers... always a pleasure to visit.

Review №40

2022-12-12 15:36:28

Friendly and professional staffSpacious area for quiet reading ..

Review №41

2016-06-21 03:31:13

Great location. Beautifully designed building. Only minor gripe is that the internet gets really slow during peak hours.

Review №42

2017-09-14 23:44:35

One of the best libraries we have used in recent months. Our grateful thanks to Castro Valley Library and the helpful staff.

Review №43

2018-01-11 00:40:04

Very unique place with vivid signs, departments are well signed, and the library provides laptops for library use...impressive!

Review №44

2021-11-06 18:15:53

Offering excellent programs in the new building. Best library in Bay area.

Review №45

2023-04-15 22:02:01

Lot of stores, restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores. Variety thrift stores

Review №46

2018-03-24 20:09:29

Great help. Nice workers. Professionalism is still there. I love it. Thank you all for everything.

Review №47

2021-05-13 02:52:49

I enjoyed a great time studying in a quiet, and relaxing environment.

Review №48

2018-07-31 20:57:40

Nicely appointed and maintained public library. Good selection of titles.

Review №49

2022-04-03 22:42:56

Great library and staff! Open on Sunday.

Review №50

2015-02-11 00:32:28

Nice and modern library, but not enough natural lights is used. This can be very wasteful.

Review №51

2019-04-21 20:33:08

Great books, great staff, 4 poke stops and a poke gym!

Review №52

2017-08-22 18:57:16

My complain is that the opening hours are too short and too late for Monday and Tuesday. I hope they can open at 10am on Mon and Tuesday.

Review №53

2022-06-04 23:22:45

It has great children books and new DVD collection

Review №54

2023-02-11 00:08:42

Sometimes Thursday I go there.

Review №55

2022-01-16 23:07:34

Helpful and friendly staff. Great resource for the community.

Review №56

2017-03-25 23:32:00

I love this library, it is clean, modern, and well run.

Review №57

2021-09-26 21:35:26

Best library in the bay!Hand down

Review №58

2019-01-22 23:40:50

Free wifi, very clean and great staffs.

Review №59

2014-10-26 01:48:07

Well-lighted, great collection, and friendly staff

Review №60

2018-01-22 23:12:54

Calm quiet well lit

Review №61

2023-02-04 18:53:03

Very nice library.

Review №62

2022-05-27 02:08:37

Why such short hours? Is it self above service?

Review №63

2018-03-20 15:11:37

Very nice staff and good books

Review №64

2021-12-22 23:27:21

Steak

Review №65

2015-02-04 19:02:31

I love this place!! Can spend hours here.

Review №66

2021-09-05 19:51:04

That bald Asian librarian is too rude!!

Review №67

2020-08-29 02:07:28

Great place when it was open ...great staff ...

Review №68

2020-02-12 17:36:00

Great, Clean and well organized.

Review №69

2022-07-19 05:53:20

Always a great experience

Review №70

2021-04-22 22:11:14

I was about to go inside it was closed for 3 hours.

Review №71

2011-08-13 20:16:06

Well organized and really high tech

Review №72

2014-03-06 01:03:52

5 star library very good library

Review №73

2017-06-29 23:27:41

The staff is great much more

Review №74

2016-09-02 00:38:01

Good auto drop off machine

Review №75

2018-09-08 21:48:06

Perfect place for peace and learning

Review №76

2019-07-12 01:53:12

Gr8 place

Review №77

2016-12-06 23:00:12

Great place and helpful staff

Review №78

2016-04-29 20:04:46

This place feels like home. :)

Review №79

2018-03-11 20:48:31

Clean and reliable internet.

Review №80

2016-01-14 20:28:29

Clean and well lighted

Review №81

2015-10-24 20:07:30

The staff is professional and friendly

Review №82

2014-03-22 17:35:52

Best library ever............

Review №83

2014-02-19 18:01:29

Best library....

Review №84

2014-11-22 19:35:40

AWESOME LIBRARY

Review №85

2022-08-19 00:05:49

The first time I came to borrow books at a library like this, everything was quite ok, you could choose and check out yourselfHowever, Vietnamese books are quite few

Review №86

2022-02-21 17:27:44

3 years agoNice library. Very good library. After borrowing books for 3 years, I feel that many of them are too old. Many books are damaged. But the staff attitude is very good. I hope the books can be updated.