Valente Branch Library

My favorite neighborhood library! It’s small, but the librarians and staff are nothing but friendly. I’ve since moved from the neighborhood, but still go back on occasion to say hi to the staff. I usually had all of my requests from other Minuteman branches delivered to this branch. They have computers with internet and wi-​fi for laptops.

I almost exclusively reserve/​request books/​DVDs online to pick up at this location. Works out perfectly!
This branch has computers to surf the internet or more importantly to print documents (up to 10 free a week) or to make copies.

I like to think of this location of the Cambridge system as the Little Branch That Could. It’s tiny, and the collection is small, but they make up for what they don’t have on-​site with the most consistent friendly and helpful customer service ever.
For a little branch, they always have interesting new and of-​interest books in their displays (not just some one-​off random stuff), the in-​house DVD collection is interesting, and they carry a whole lot of Portuguese language stuff, supporting the local community. I’ve seen classes of kids in there with teachers, and even the kids who hang out in the evenings aren’t usually the crazy loud trouble-​making types. They also offer a small number of computers for public use and wifi. I’ve been able to check out items even with fines on my account, although I usually try to pay the fines either in person or *online* through the catalog. Maybe they just know I’m good for it. ;)
Even with these basic bases covered, it’s the people who make this branch great, anything can get done with the help of their staff.
There is a 69 bus stop right out front, as well as 30min and 2hr metered parking, and it’s about a 10−15min walk from Lechemere. Hurray for accessibility!
I don’t spend tons of time here, I usually just run over to pick up holds, mostly because the hours are somewhat limited (my only reason to dock them a star; when I was working, they were often closed when I was available to go there). I wish Cambridge would give this branch more hours, though, especially since the temporary Main branch was closed to finish the new Main branch construction (the Central Sq branch got more hours, I wish they’d shared some of that love with Valente!).

This Library is connected to the Harrington School right on Cambridge street.
It is larger than O’Connell (closer to Lechmere) and has more of a selection, but I only go to pick up my holds here.
There is always a group of kids hanging out in front of it (and I am not talking about those that go to Harrington)…they are punks and deter many from going but I think the police are on top of it.