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Alhambra Civic Center Library
Category: Public Services & Government Libraries Libraries [Edit]
101 S 1st StAlhambra, CA 91801
Neighborhood: Alhambra
(626) 570-5008
- Hours:
Mon 1 pm - 9 pm
Tue-Wed 11 am - 9 pm
Thu 10 am - 9 pm
Fri-Sat 10 am - 5 pm
Sun 1 pm - 5 pm
- Wi-Fi:
- Free
35 reviews for Alhambra Civic Center Library
35 reviews in English
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Review from Ty G.
Los Angeles, CA
4/22/2012
Alhambra Main Street's public parking availability (.2 per capita) has been on the steady decline since beer and wine permits were dished out like hot cakes several years ago, so it's a beautiful thing that underground parking is available below the library. But note the signage for parking restrictions, and DO NOT leave your car parked after 5pm on Sundays or the gates will trap your buggy (the signs make no indication of Sunday restrictions). I learned the hard way, and as it turns out, so have several other friends.
APD - biggest takeaway for the next Yelp review evaluation: append Sunday restrictions to the signs! -
Review from Minkalicious M.
Alhambra, CA
4/19/2012
I love this place! There's something for all ages. They're open 7 days a week.
Some librarians aren't knowledgeable.
There's street parking and they also have their own parking structure underneath. -
Review from Amy F.
Temple City, CA
2/12/2012
First time I came here, my jaw dropped from the beauty of this place. Lots of brand-new shiny books, all that looked very interesting, nice architecture, plushy chairs, and rooms that you can rent to work in.
Seriously very catered to the community.
I came here one day to finish some icky summer school work with a large group of people and it's thanks to this place that we managed to get something done.
I'll definitely come back here to check out some nice books in the future. Lucky Alhambra kids. -
Review from Mimi V.
5/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
I always drive by this library, but never knew it what it was until my friend told me it was a library. This library has a lot to offer, it has a kids, teens, and quiet area. It also has private rooms where you can book for up to 2 hours. It's a clean nice library with it's own parking garage. If your hungry, you can literally walk down the street to many different restaurants and if your thirsty or feeling tired, there's a starbucks across the street. This library is big, clean, and is in a convenient spot. Great place to study at.
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Review from Angie W.
1/6/2012
The Alhambra Library is beautiful! It is located in Downtown Alhambra near Main Street, Police Station, Civic Center, Alhambra High School and the courthouse.
As you walk in, you will notice a nice lobby and a few computers and the children's section. Then upstairs is more computers, chairs and the rest of the books.
The customer service here is about average, nothing to complain about. I've been here to ask about the passport services.
The best thing about this library is it is so new and clean and bright and open. Love it!! It's pretty quiet the few times I have been there. But I can see how it can become crowded after school.
Parking: There is lots of street parking, but be careful because 1st St is one way. You can also park in the lot across the street for free.Listed in: Local | Alhambra, A Beautiful Mind
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Review from Alex C.
11/21/2011 1 Check-in Here
I swear Alhambra is the only city that can keep up with the amount of new construction that goes on in Vegas.
When did the new library go up? I still have fond memories of the old one on Main Street. I suppose that's Life; out with the old and in with the new.
This new one is nice. I like how they keep it spacious unlike other libraries that cram everything into tight aisles. There's a sense of airiness that has a great calming effect.
There's parking underneath the building, on the street or at the structure across the street.
I just came by today to check it out after lunch. I didn't have too much time but I liked what I saw. I checked out both floors. There's a copy center, a DVD collection ($1 per title), computers for internet access and rooms for meetings.
I was impressed the massive collection of Biographies. So impressed that I signed up for a library card! Wohoooooo!!!
Even as technology advances, there's no way digital can replace the analog. There's nothing more retro than reading a real book. Print is not dead! -
Review from Anna C.
Los Angeles, CA
11/20/2011
LOVE, LOVE, LOVE how they are open on sundays
parking is good, spacious, lots of books
BUTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT
bitchy old hag librarian that bitch at everything.She needs to retired.
The outlet plugs seems stupid whoever did the building/wiring plan. If they knew this place is for students to study and for kids to read and with technology being more use (more power/outlet needed).
Those are my two cons...
watch out for the bitchy old white lady -
Review from Sharon K.
Rosemead, CA
7/5/2011
The facility itself is a total upgrade from what it used to be on Main St. Very clean and well-kept. Lots of selections of books, DVDs, and other rentals. Plenty of study tables. Oh, its also two stories!
My only problem is with the staff, I return books late in 2006-2007 and haven't use their facility for awhile. When I came back, they informed me that "I have a overdue charge from 2006-2007", when I know for certain that I pay for the $12 over due fees. Such bad customer service. So if you have a balance on your account, make sure you keep your receipts that you pay for it or else they will CHARGE YOU AGAIN. =( -
Review from Peter D.
11/6/2011
Working from home one day and my WIFI went out. AL saved me from driving to work and it helped out in a pinch. It's been a while since I've been to a public library and forgot how super conducive it is to working/studying. It's much cleaner, brighter than the old facilities back on Main. Ample parking on weekdays and plenty of local eateries nearby for food and snacks.
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Review from David T.
11/19/2010
I grew up going to the original Alhambra Library, and I have to say that this new one is a step up and a step in the right direction. The old place always felt like a convalescent home to me, with its old carpet and well, just old everything.
The new facility is state of the art. Computers are everywhere. The place has lots of windows that allow much of the sun light from the outside to shine in and grace the inside with that wonderful light.
High ceiling and beautiful artwork from local artist's. The new library also has an underground parking lot which is great as parking can sometimes be an issue in that area. It's also conveintly located across the street from the local high school, post office and next to the police station and city hall.
If you haven't had a chance to check it out then I would recommend stopping by. Check out there website also, their always hosting all kinds of events that are great for the family. -
Review from Haik K.
11/15/2010
This place is called a library but it is more of a place you go to get work done. The book selection is a joke compared to other libraries in the county.
But I gotta admit, having access to study rooms and for up to 6 people (we snuck in 7) and entire conference rooms with access to wi-fi is a really great resource. The time limit for the study and conference rooms is 2 hours and you have to reserve ahead of time, which is not a problem if you give them a call.
This library is also one of the few ones open on a Sunday, which blew my mind!
The place has a somewhat friendly staff, yknow they are Librarians after all, the ultimate SHHH!- police.
I would recommend this for anyone trying to get a group project done or do some independent studying in a productive environment. If you're looking for book selection, make the drive up to Pasadena or downtown LA. -
Review from Cindy L.
1/9/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Public libraries make me very happy. Especially when I try not to purchase books until I know for sure I'll enjoy it over and over again.
Spent a lot of time in my younger years at the old Alhambra library and I have to say they did an amazing job upgrading the place, aesthetically and parking wise. The selection of books/magazines are not too shabby and the library is very clean & organized. Not quite sure how Alhambra seem to always do things slightly better than Monterey Park.
My only minor irk is that to place a book on hold, is 50 cents, but it's understandable since I'm sure funding is being slashed left & right for public facilities. -
Review from J W.
Alhambra, CA
11/19/2011
Nice building. Although I like the previous building architecture. Spacious. Seems like they have a good selection of resources.
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Review from Brenda P.
Alhambra, CA
3/16/2011 1 Check-in Here
how can a library get 4 stars lol well it gets so packed and the out side patio is never open. I suggest get there early if you want a good spot or expect to wait awhile for a table.
if you have kids take them to check out story time! it's so much fun for kids;) -
Review from Mimi C.
10/19/2009
Finally got to visit here! =)
It's a very nice library, comparable to Cerritos Library in terms of materials and space (missing the whole shark tank aspect ;)).
The organization is very neat - your younger and popular sections downstairs. The referances and study rooms are upstairs. THEY HAVE STUDY ROOMS! =) And decent ones to boot - nice comfortable chairs, glass room. =)
Style wise, it's very minimalistic, though it does carry on the mosaic theme that Alhambra's going for. Plenty of computers, plenty of magazines (even US weekly!), plenty of DVDs (even anime!), lots of seats and good amount of computers to ensure you a space.
The staff is really friendly as well. They also seem to have a lot of classes offered or exhibitions and events going on which is pretty neat. The only thing I didn't like was that it's in quick to miss area and the sign isn't too obvious as to what it is. I'm not sure if there's another are you can park, but I parked in front of the library - 24 minutes only. I guess that's cool for a quick dash. There are also 1 hr parking spots, but didn't really see if there's a garage or lot specifically for it.
What's nice is that it's located near lots of eateries in Downtown Alhambra (too bad I call it mediocre row though). -
Review from Alison W.
7/19/2009
So I recently moved to Alhambra and decided to check out the local library. It's not part of the County library system so you have to apply for a new library card that you can only use at this library as far as I can tell. It's a dang nice library - large and new and plenty of table/chairs to study or chill. Two stories with teen and children areas on the first. And public computers with free internet on both floors. They also have free wifi if you want to bring your own laptop. Their selection of books isn't that extensive but I think you can reserve books - maybe even from other libraries, if you're looking for something in particular.
I like going there most on the weekdays. It's not that busy so you have plenty of choices on where to park yourself for a few hours. Although it is the summer so I'm sure it gets busy after everyone goes back to school in the fall. On the weekends, it gets packed though - people probably taking advantage of the free air conditioning on the hot summer days. Also the internet is a lot faster on weekdays since there are less people using it. Parking is easy - either in front or the back on 1st and 2nd streets respectively. Or there's an underground lot with even more spaces. And the location is great - really close to my house and right off Main Street so you can grab some food or coffee if you please. -
Review from garfield s.
Los Angeles, CA
10/10/2011
The library itself is cool.
But I volunteered there a while at the IT department and felt really bad, my work did not seem to be appreciated. The guy left me his job, and went to smoke. I do not think they know what volunteering means.
It was such a bad experience. -
Review from Jody V.
Alhambra, CA
5/28/2009
I never saw the old Alhambra Library so I've got no comparison. However, the new library is very nice. They have a great selection of books on many topics including odd ones i.e. beekeeping. Also, the staff is pretty helpful with sending you in the right direction to track something down or answer questions. I also like the idea of being able to borrow from any library in LA; I haven't used this service yet but I like the option regardless.
Being able to renew or reserve books on the internet is awesome too. They also have an interesting thing on the site that lets you purchase things through Amazon but it gives the library a little kick back for some funding. Only real downside is that it opens at 11 and they don't have a drive by book drop on the street. -
Review from Karen Y.
7/6/2010
Pretty nice library considering it's brand new. It's a new two story building too. There are lots of study rooms, computers and laptop stations which makes it a perfect place to study.
They have a patio area too, but I've never seen it open. I'd love to study outside on their patio though. Maybe it's just for special events...
I wish they had more books though. It kinda seems like there are more study tables and computers to use than areas with books. I guess they have room to grow.
They also have a small (storage-sized) room where they sell used books. Not too much there yet either. -
Review from Amy W.
2/23/2010 1 photo
Came here on a whim with my cousin today. Apparently she buys her baby books at the bookstore here. It's a rather nice, new, all-white building located right off of Alhambra's Main St. Walking in, I felt a sense of calm. It's very nicely kept inside with plenty of space for studying, reading, computer use or whatever you're into. On a Monday afternoon there were quite a few people taking advantage of all the space and comfy looking chairs.
And, yes, my cousin wasn't making it up! There is a bookstore, although not large or anything, that sells used books for SUPER cheap! It's all mainly in decent condition too! My cousin bought 3 children's books for just $3.00 total! It was a super awesome deal! The bookstore is located on the first floor near the bathrooms. You can miss it pretty easily. Would've been a 4 star library, but with the addition of this gem of a bookstore, it's definitely a 5 star! Now, go buy some cheap books people! -
Review from Wayne T.
Alhambra, CA
9/18/2010
Cool new library, i wish i had this library when i was in elementary school. HAHA jk i dont go libraries because i was never book smart. But that is a very nice library, clean and very strong AC.
In the summer when its scourging hot, go to the library, sit down and read in the AC. Remember its not freeloading because as long as you learn something from that book, you are making good use of tax payers money. -
Review from Johnson G.
Los Angeles, CA
7/18/2010
Built in 2008. Free wi-fi. Good air conditioning. Good book and magazine and newspaper selection.
Online catalog search works well. Note: it costs 50 cents to hold a book. (County doesn't charge to hold.)Listed in: Alhambra
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Review from Victor A.
Los Angeles County, CA
6/27/2011
i like this newer library then old one. Its bigger, its open on sundays and has a book store. the book store is small and has a decent selection of books for sale but i bought a few books from that book store that i really enjoyed. the books in the bookstore aren't that expenisve. the most i ever payed for a book was $2.25. the only thing i dont like about the library is the patio is always close when i go there.
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Review from Kenneth L.
Alhambra, CA
2/19/2011 7 Check-ins Here
This place is big, clean, and still relatively new. The only problem is the 4 hour parking. People tend to go to the library to study but 4 hours is a limiting factor that should not be there. Other than that this place is great.
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Review from john m.
Alhambra, CA
3/20/2011 2 Check-ins Here
My brand new local library, nice and with all the latest. Wifi, workstations, meeting rooms, helpful staff and underground parking!
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Review from Oshi Y.
Los Angeles, CA
Nice. Clean and modern. They have DVD's you can rent that are popular movies for a price and only for a limited time. Otherwise upstairs you can rent free DVDs like Tai Chi up to 5 DVDs. They apparently have a 3 day grace period on overdue books which is nice of them.
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Review from Olivia L.
Alhambra, CA
3/29/2009
The new Alhambra public library is really state of the art. There are entrances to the underground parking lot on 1st Street and on 2nd Street. I've been there on Fridays and Saturdays and the lot has never been full, so parking isn't very hard. The first floor has a teen section, children's room, fiction and non-fiction, news media and the circulation desk so it is a little noisy. The upstairs is more of a study area since there are a lot tables, computers, references and it is pretty quiet. There is also an outdoor patio area where you can study as well. The library is just huge compared to the old Alhambra library and compared to the public libraries I grew up with in Forest Hills, NY. They get a lot of new books and definitely have more books than the Monterey Park library. You can see a huge plaque when you walk upstairs listing all the major donations the library received.
It's usually a very calm atmosphere upstairs. Occasionally you get the cell phone ring, and the idiot who carries on a phone conversation without lowering their voice or leaving the room to continue it outside. But it's like your normal library where there are occasional whispers between people studying together.
One time there were these two girls studying, and they were whispering really low, almost inaudible to me and my boyfriend who were at the table right next to them, and then a girl 2 tables in front of us yelled across the room to those two girls to be quiet. Yeah, some people take the library way too seriously. Yes the library is quiet, but you don't have to be able to hear a pin drop. Plus, yelling across the room is disrupting enough. The two girls ignored her as did everyone else, and that girl stormed to the circulation desk and told the librarian. She should have walked to the librarian first instead of having an outburst. The librarian then came over and told the girls to go downstairs because they let noise slide because the area around the circulation desk is a little noisy. I found the librarian lecture more disrupting, but the two girls packed their stuff and went downstairs. I felt bad for them, some people are just too high strung.
Anyways, the location of the library is also better than before, because now it is closer to Garfield and there are more restaurants and places to eat when you want to take a break from studying. -
Review from Janey Y.
3/24/2009 1 Check-in Here
After spending my high school years as a patron to Alhambra Library, I decided to visit the new library during my spring break of my fourth year of college. I must say, this place is nice! I came by later in the evening and was able to just sit and catch up on magazines. Despite expecting it to be dead, there were lots of people studying and on their laptops! This place also has two floors. I love the ambiance and am a bit jealous of what high schoolers are getting now. Haha. Parking is also underground too, and that's great when you want to avoid frying your car in the sun!
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Review from Ka P.
Los Angeles, CA
8/27/2009
The Alhambra library is a very pleasant place to be. The building and facility is essentially brand new. The selection of books/videos/audioCDs is great and you can always reserve an item for 50 cents if they don't have it in stock. I usually go on Sunday afternoon and I am really pleased with the friendly service of the front desk staff. It is also a great place to study. I am still a hardcore fan of the bookstores, but I find myself spending more time at the library.
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Review from james k.
Los Angeles, CA
7/21/2010
Ive been going to this library for 6 months now, and its the first library Ive been too since I was like 15 so I dont have anything to compare it too.
I do love this place though. Great parking, nice building (very nice, and new). Seem to have a good selection of books, good computer stations (though busy at certain times of the day). Even across the street from a High School its still very calm and quite. Nice staff. -
Review from Jerald C.
Alhambra, CA
10/11/2010 13 Check-ins Here
useful place for me to get my studying done, just beware of the HS students that raid the place around 2:30pm on weekdays. it can be chaotic, but the dust settles within half an hour
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Review from Jennifer O.
Alhambra, CA
they have the best audiobook collection. they have lots of new books (in hardcopy and audiobook). the staff are helpful and the library is air-conditioned and quiet. :) they also have a little bookstore hidden on the side where you can buy used books. i love this library and visit every month to get new books!
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Review from S R.
San Francisco, CA
10/8/2010
clean, feels new, easily accessible, fast service, easy online reservations. doesn't get a 5 because its a little small.
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Review from xxx x.
Alhambra, CA
8/17/2010
The book about customer service must have been checked out a long time ago and never returned because this place has no trace of it. Seriously, try to ask someone that works there for some help and be prepared to get that "What the hell do you want attitude." Keep in mind, this is not one employee that does this, but all of them. I can't figure out if they have this attitude because A: they hate their lives so they must hate you too or B: they are the only people in the world that poo out gold. I've given this place a chance a couple of times and the results are the same. The final straw was that I had a book on hold and got there just before 9pm because of work. Instead of taking the extra minute to just let me check it out, they badgered me about the library closing and telling me to pick it up tomorrow. Oddly enough letting me check out the book would have taken the same amount of time as badgering me. It would have also taken less resources too since it required 3 employees to badger me and tell me to come back tomorrow.
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Review from Chris C.
Arcadia, CA
7/14/2009
Now the people know how to handle the self-check out!
