Ocean View Branch Library

We wanted to come here for Preschool storytime but the Librarian was ill. The space is small but cozy. Easy street parking and it’s also near Merced Library.

I bring my kids to the library all the time and this one is right by their school. The staff are very nice here. I guess my review would be on the rules. I sat outside today for almost an hour to wait for the zoo pass and because I only had both my kids cards and I didn’t have a card, they have the pass to the next person. It literally took me less than a minute to get the card for myself and they gave the pass to the next person. I’ve never checked out a family pass and would’ve been nice to know the kids needed to be there with me but they are both in school. A bit upsetting that I told them I waited so long and the lady basically told me, oh we’ll, I can’t wait 1 minute for you to get a card.

I have used this branch forever ever since being in elementary school when it used to be next to the old firehouse down the street from where it is now. It’s not exactly the biggest branch with the best collection of books but its adequate. I usually just request books before going to the library and then pick it up. They started a self checkout stand a while ago and even though it’s a little more convenient?, it’s still a hassle. I just thought if there’s a self checkout, what’s the need for four librarians to be present at once? Overall this branch is a nice quiet neighborhood branch. I’m glad there’s one close to my house otherwise I would have to travel to Merced or Ingleside just to pickup my books.

I use this library a lot with my 3^rd grade students. We go here every Wednesday afternoon and they love renting books. It’s a small library but they have a great selection of children’s books, dvds, and magazines. In addition, all the librarians who work there are very nice and friendly. I would definitely recommend Naima because she’s an excellent reader for the young ones! The library also has a couple PCs and laptops available to the public, which is also a plus. For the most part, the entire library is pretty quiet and clean, except when my students come to visit.
The Good: Great selection of children’s books, DVDs, and magazines, laptop/​computer access, friendly librarians, and a quiet and clean atmosphere.
The Bad: There aren’t any big tables for studying or doing homework because there’s not enough space inside the library. I wouldn’t recommend this library for studying in groups.