North University Community Branch Library — Attraction in San Diego

I'm no longer a student, so my primary reason for coming to the library is to either reserve and use their conference room for a couple of hours, or to borrow books that the SD Library mobile app says they have on shelf. I don't need to sit and study, but I can imagine the frustration of others. This library can be loud at times, depending on when you go.

PARKING/LOCATION: Lots of parking is available near the library. Located in the middle of the Nobel park and a Small/Large dog park, the location can't be beat. It's an amazing spot. There's even grassy area right outside the library if you dare to lay a blanket on top to sit and read (beware of dog pee and poop though. :) )

LAYOUT: Inside, to your right, there is a small bookstore. To your left, the big meeting/conference room for events hosted by the library (and possibly others?) This same hallway is where you would also find the restrooms. Straight ahead is the library. Against the back left, you'll see the kids book section, where it can get really loud. In the main area, you'll also see a separate room for computer use, conference room use, and tables scattered all over the library, surrounding the bookshelves. They have an AMAZING DVD collection here, (yes, you can borrow movies for FREE, so before deciding to Redbox it, check here first).

ATMOSPHERE: Even there are enough outlets to go around, I always feel uncomfortable bringing my laptop here to work... even with music playing through my headphones to drown out the little kids' screams and giggles. Even though there are enough tables, it always feels so awkward working here. :( The environment at each library is always different. At this particular one, you'll notice the place looks more modern than "quaint". I think it's the architecture and the bookshelves. Other libraries have wooden, beat-up bookshelves that really add to the ambience of the place, but here, (I forget....) their shelves are.... straight, tall, and.... made of metal? :) Either way, the look is fairly modern compared to other locations I've been to.

BOOKS: Lots of books to choose from. :) Check out a title's availability through their mobile app! You'll be surprised at how organized the entire SD Library system has gotten over the past...

Nice library. Seems like newer building & more modern, than other city library branches. Smallish-medium size yet bigger than many city branch libraries. Fair # of tables & library computers (a few reserved for library catalog access). Decent amount of seats & tables & power outlets for your devices. Effectively 1 open space, no separation/isolation by walls, so no alternative places for more quiet (except possibly rooms).

Public transit. 204 Superloop bus route, stop nearby, on street Judicial Dr., uphill from the library, still have a walk downhill on street Research Pl (~5 minutes) to arrive @ library. 1 bus stop on 1 side of street, since route is a 1 way loop.

Basically in Nobel Park. Has recreation & community center nearby, park & sports & playground facilities. The rec center seems to have equipment available. Leash free dog park area in park.

In a mainly residential area. UTC Mall nearby, not close & not far. A far walk, may prefer to drive or take bus (to UTC) or bike. Not far from University Of CA, San Diego (UCSD) (farther than UTC), in case want to check it out including it's libraries (Geisel the main central).

There is a major interlibrary loan service, where you can lookup combined catalog & order from other branch libraries & some other local library systems. Example combined catalog is - The Circuit (check the library Web site or catalog). You can lookup catalog & Web site online before going. You need library card & then user account to reserve online...

Definitely one of the better libraries. Great ‘friends of the library’ bookshop. Cozy study areas plus a few rooms. Outside is sorta like a park and relaxing. A little hidden when driving. Ample parking. Divided Children section in full view of staff. Wheelchair friendly including wheelchair friendly desk in computer room. Event & community rooms are after entry into library but sectioned off before entering actual library space which also feels safer and less noisy. I live less than 1mile from the UC Governor drive library but I will drive to the North UC library and do! I prefer to do work there when I need a place with little distractions.

I might take a few pics next time to add to my review! I was just writing down the current hours and reviewing latest Covid regulations when I got distracted by other reviews I agreed with and felt moved to share...