The San Francisco Public Library is filled with resources for all ages. Their media room is well known for its wide collection of movies and music. A happy place for any bookworm out there.
I've been an avid library-goer for years, and this library is an absolute gem! From the moment you step through its welcoming doors, you're transported to a world of endless knowledge and imagination. The diverse collection, cozy reading nooks, and helpful staff make it a haven for book lovers like me.
Despite the potentially daunting surroundings of the Civic Center/Market Street area, I highly recommend a visit to the San Francisco Public Library. The library's stringent security measures ensure a safe and secure environment, allowing visitors to enjoy a truly tranquil experience inside. Stepping through its doors, you are immediately enveloped in a sense of serenity, as if entering an oasis amidst the bustling city. The library's architecture is simply breathtaking, adding to the overall ambiance of calmness and tranquility. From the moment you interact with the knowledgeable and accommodating staff, it becomes evident that their commitment to providing exceptional service is unwavering. They are always ready to assist visitors, going above and beyond to ensure a positive experience. One area of the library that stands out is the San Francisco History Room, which boasts an astonishing array of offerings. It is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, with a wealth of resources and materials that will undoubtedly captivate visitors. The dedicated staff members of the San Francisco History Room are passionate about their work, readily sharing their expertise and making every effort to accommodate the needs and interests of visitors. In summary, don't let any reservations about the surrounding neighborhood dissuade you from exploring the San Francisco Public Library. This haven of tranquility is filled with stunning architecture, a helpful staff, and an abundance of books that will keep you engrossed for hours. The San Francisco History Room is an absolute gem that should not be missed, and the library as a whole offers an enriching experience that will leave you with a deep appreciation for its offerings.
Amazing and spacious library with lots of materials. It's more than a library, it's a museum as well. I could spend a whole day here! They have media available in many different languages. I was floored at the diversity of the selection compared to the library in my hometown. The areas are tidy and facilities are well maintained.
Visited the Main SF Library today and it was an awesome experience. It’s easily accessible via BART Civic Center stop and is centrally located near City Hall. I specifically went to visit the Childrens Section which is located on the 2nd Floor. This is a must visit place if you love libraries, reading, and engaging things to do with your children. It’s truly awesome that the entire second floor is dedicated to toddler and children literature. There is also a story-time section that has library staff reading to the kids. Also, the library and the San Francisco unified school district have partnered and kids can take home one free book.
Super modern and elegant building in which I can spend the whole day. A system of applying for a reader card is fast and easy. The choice of books is massive. Besides all genres of literature in English you can also find Spanish, Indian, Russian books there - foreign language section is big enough. Children’s book club seems to be cool too. SF public library is definitely one of the best places for work/study or just to be alone with yourself:
Angelo from info desk super nice, made me feel welcome and excited, was very clear. Lovely atmosphere, lots of books, clean. Couldn't make me feel more happier being in sf. All the desk personnel are quick to help you even though they might be mid another conversation with staff. They are super helpful here and have help on ever floor even right outside the elevators.
One of the best without a doubt . They have everything that someone will ever need. Make sure to get a library card if you live in san francisco. They have free fax and scanning station and you can print free upto 2$.
Loved visiting the third floor art display areas. Saw the wonderful show by the Cocketts and then show the wonderful HerStory show near the elevators. The library is really doing great work to bring educational art shows on every show. Love that they are monitoring the restrooms now so we can at least go to the restroom w/o people bathing and changing clothes and more strange things prior to this security. They even put up a suicide screen netting starting at the 3rd floor. More security and that is good.
SF public library is by far my favorite library I have ever visited. There are plenty of books of all kinds! and they quickly have the newest books available. The website system for holding and renewing books is also super good and make the process of renting books easy. The wifi is also very decent and you can use the library's computers. Printing is also available for up to $2 of printing for free every day - pretty amazing!. Getting a card membership is quick. Staff is generally kind and helpful. You can just ask a question and they will help you or point you towards a person that will. And yes, there are homeless people inside but that's not a problem!! They are usually reading, resting, having a chill time on a safe space that is very different from what they live on the streets. I personally like to see them there, learning, reading and resting instead of making bad decisions. But in case anyone bothers you, there are plenty of security guards around. I personally never had a problem - just nice conversations with the homeless while there.
