Berkeley Public Library - Claremont Branch — Attraction in Berkeley

About a week ago, I noticed Claremont Library had begun chilling the inside temperature to well below comfortable levels (even the librarians are wearing winter sweaters). This is an understandable but blatantly NIMBY, Starbucks-inspired attempt to prevent members of the public from using the computers at length. This isn’t the first time I’ve experienced prejudice-based access-blocking of the computers here. But hey, folx! This is a public library—using tax payer dollars like mine to fund a public resource that is supposed to be accessible to all, with stated policies equally applied to all. So come one, come all, and bring your winter sweaters, hats, socks, extra layer of sweat pants, and blankets. And remember—if a computer is not reserved, you have every right to use it for another hour; simply go to the desk and ask them to add an hour to the time on your computer number. (Blatant NIMBYism aside, this is a lovely library with great computers and computer stations; certain staff members are wonderful; hence the two stars. Once this problem is resolved, I’ll adjust my rating...

About a week ago, I noticed Claremont Library had begun chilling the inside temperature to well below comfortable levels (even the librarians are wearing winter sweaters). This is an understandable but blatantly NIMBY, Starbucks-inspired attempt to prevent members of the public from using the computers at length. This isn’t the first time I’ve experienced prejudice-based access-blocking of the computers here. But hey, folx! This is a public library—using tax payer dollars like mine to fund a public resource that is supposed to be accessible to all, with stated policies equally applied to all. So come one, come all, and bring your winter sweaters, hats, socks, extra layer of sweat pants, and blankets. And remember—if a computer is not reserved, you have every right to use it for another hour; simply go to the desk and ask them to add an hour to the time on your...

This library is a true gem in the community! I needed to borrow some cookbooks for a project, and the library staff made the process so easy. The selection was vast, and the quality of the books was superb. The library provides incredible value by offering not just books, but a wealth of other services—computers, free Wi-Fi, events, and workshops. It’s the perfect place to explore new topics and find a quiet...