Reviews of Houston Public Library - Central Library (Library)

500 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77002

Average Rating:

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Here you have the reviews of real people like you who are purchasing the products of Houston Public Library - Central Library (Library) in Texas.

Currently this firm receives a rating of 3.6 out of 5 and the score is based on 196 reviews.

As you can see it has an average rating is very good, and it is founded on a high number of scores, so we may say that the assessment is very credible. If people have bothered to give their feddback when they are pleased with the service, is that it works.

You know that we do not usually bother to place tatings when these are good and we usually do it only if we've had a problem or issue...

This Library belongs to the category of Public library.

Where is Houston Public Library - Central Library?

REVIEWS OF Houston Public Library - Central Library IN Texas

Paul Shimek

The homeless population hang out at this place which isn't that big of a deal besides I'm scared to use the restroom because it's disgusting.

Sara Schultz

I came here for the first time last week to get a library card, as I only have a Fort Bend library card and wanted something for close to where I work downtown. The woman who helped me wasyoung, around my age, and was very sweet and helpful and gave me all the info I needed and got me a library card right away. I was excited to browse! Not 10 minutes into browsing the 2nd floor, a homeless man started following me, jeering at me, making noises at me like I was a dog. He followed me literally the entire time I was in the library, whispering and cat calling at me, and did not stop until I flipped him off. I left soon after, I dont think I was in the library for even 15 or 20 minutes. I will not be going back by myself ever, I felt so uncomfortable and upset to have been harrassed at the library while on my lunch break in the middle of the day in front of other people at the library. It made me nervous to even leave and walk back to my office. I will say that the library card itself is awesome and I now have access to their online services and ebooks which is fantastic. Again, thank you to the employees and staff who were nothing but kind and helpful, I'm sorry I was just so shocked and angry and embarrassed about being harassed that I dont plan to come back to this location. I shouldn't be too surprised since the area is infested with homeless and mentally unstable individuals. There needs to be a better system for helping them in Houston.

Mayflower Hirami

I've been visiting this library for years and I really love it. And although I have a closer location I prefer to go this one.

Vinay Kumar Chandrasekaran

Must visit ... nice collection of books

Yolanda Rodarte

Extremely disappointed!!!! I brought my kids here today during spring break. I was told i had to leave the teen section cause I'm an adult. Only my 16 yr old could stay. I told her my daughter doesn't stay alone anywhere. (There were 5 teens there ,with what seemed no adult supervision, n they we all guys) I wasn't about to leave my daughter alone with them or anyone else. I was on my phone (fb)sitting quietly while my daughter chose her books. My sons (22 n 18) also went n my oldest one was told to leave. I'm sorry but, my sons are very close n they go everywhere together. Not only are they brothers, they're best friend. My oldest one knows what the youngest one likes to read n was helping him look. This place is NOT family friendly. They cater to the homeless only. I'm extremely insulted n disappointed. I'll NEVER go back. N if you cherish your time with your children n family, I suggest you stay away also! I only gave it 1 start because I couldn't place a comment otherwise.

Mark Kirschke

Kind of dirty, kind of smelly, and an old slack jawed yokel named Rodger chastising me for not seeing the closed sign for the 3rd floor when there is no such sign. It says pardon the inconvenience, which is not the same thing and it's way …

Zachary Garnes

This library is disgusting. When you step foot inside the bathrooms here(any floor) it smells like someone placed cow manure on a semi truck and hit you at 100 MPH. Then when your hour is up you have to get up and log in and get a new computer. I'm from Columbus, Ohio and you have the option to log on the log on computer or any computer that says available on the screen. Also when your time runs out you don't have to get back up to log on again, the computer automatically gives you another hour as long as there is no reservations made for the computer, which Houston public libraries doesn't allow this. So you can be on same computer all day. Also in Columbus Ohio public libraries, they provide you with sanitation wipes to wipe the keyboard and mouse down. I brought my own wipes and was distraught at how nasty the computers were. There's a lot of homeless, mentally ill, people here as well. I don't have a problem with them except when they smell, looking at porn on a public computer, and doing other nasty things.

Luckiie Dude

Love coming here. They open the earliest out of all the libraries.

Kutay Günal

There are lots of homeless people here.

Mike Warren

Open on Sunday's can't beat that

S L O P \

They would not let me in with my skateboard, which is a form of my own transportation. I did not have an option to leave in front with security guard or anyone who works there. I was told either to leave my skateboard outside for it to get …

Michael

I was excited for somewhere to go in the downtown neighborhood to read and enjoy. The majority of the people were homeless, or definitely not there to read or study. They were at times loud and using vulgar language with each other. When they would cough, I would leave the area as to not acquire Tuberculosis. They were allowed to bring their 'suitcases' or 'bags of clothes' with them into the building. The bathroom on the 3rd floor had persons having intimate relations in the stall, so I left and went down to the 1st floor bathroom that smelled so bad it made me gag. There was no soap and a homeless showering in the sink. Really Houston and Mayor Turner? Isn't City Hall just across the street? Can't we afford some tax money for a shelter with AC and places to wash? This library is disgusting and should be shut down if it's going to continue to act as a day shelter. There were few students and no children while I was there. Do NOT let your children go here unattended.

Güera

Super super great staff, very clean lots and lots of books computers and tables available. Came her for passports and I was and out in less than 30minutes their are 2 employees doing passports (make sure you have all your paperwork rady) items arrived in 3weeks.

Luckiie Boi

The bathroom smells like a stale crackhouse from last week. When the shelters kick the residents out they run to the library and hog the case computers till it's closing. The staff is ghetto. They're all walking around on they phones at work lol.

Richie Rich

Wifi 5mbps . Not enuf table with outlet . Friendly staff

Aaron Potts

Other than the bathrooms, it's a pretty good place. Good selection, friendly staff, and cool events.

Jimmy Two Times

Horrible Staff/Security Guards and $h!ty hours compared to other libraries in Austin, Dallas and San Antonio.

Mandy Simpson

I am amazed at the limited selection that the Houston Public Library offers the public. I think that their interlibrary loan system is broken as you have to wait sometimes MONTHS to get a title available. It's like the entire city of Houston is trying to share 1 set of titles! Shameful for a city this size!

Michael Rogers

Great place to find ☮️!

Mick Mullets

Absolutely dreadful Brought my little nephews to this library because they let u play video games. But I had to get a library card. And after filling out the application they tell me I can't get a library card without a id from texas. Mind you I only wanted my nephews to play video games. Went through a whole process to get a card only get told no I can't have one. I got no help or assistance. Everyone here literally didn't care and my nephews are sad. Houston library this has been a horrible experience . Your staff sucks .Don't come to this library ever. Avoid coming here

Jonathan Nassar

Houston's downtown library. It's pretty big, though also a little dated. Check out the historic part next door.

Ken Dang

Had a pretty good selection of books, been there a couple of times and was relatively satisfied. Only problem was that there were a lot of homeless people that took up areas like the restroom, and that it also smelled a bit.

jauana bradford

This place is smelly with a lot of homeless people. Don't feel safe because of the area

Meagan White

Best in Houston, except for the many unfortunate people who try to sleep there. This library has a serious "homeless" problem.

Protein Shark

Friendly staff and looks of good books

China Wise

I go here often they helped me find a job this is the best library I even been to and I’m from California so basically keep it up team

Carlos Mejia

I have use this library because if the main library of Houston, but know it's the main one it should be more organized and clean, every time I visit this library, i'm always approach by homeless people asking for money. It makes it worse because it's next the city hall.

Sugar nator

Amazing iy has a lot of book even manga i am such am anime freak that for real im gonna go there every saturday to read interesting books and well comic books,anime/manga books,plus try to make new friends~

Michael Williams

I yelled and they told me to stop

Devan H

On my sixteenth birthday aparantly i was to short for the teen section I was litterally told "your to short to be here" lol tgt was a couple jus four years ago Second worst birthday evr lol

Dawn Callahan

The Julia Ideson Library is gorgeous!!! We have hosted numerous events there; always beautiful! They also host weddings!!!

Kevin Mask

Dirty.. no wipes after homeless bums use the computers.. risk of serious infection or disease .. unpon speaking to the manager. She stated it was the end of the fiscal year and no funds were available to purchase cleaning supplies during the day. so they only clean them in the morning. Disgusting and Dirty without any care or " Proper Maintenance", even if you wanted to clean it yourself.

Savannah-Marie Gregory

Large selection of books, large computer area, nice view, and interesting displays. Not the fanciest or most interesting library, but it gets the job done.

Hadley Haven

Liked this place very much. Big and separate section for kids is indeed helpful

Jesse M.

Library is closed on Friday. Building and courtyard is great.

Emily Wade

The city public library staff are good at their jobs. Lots of books to just sit there and read

Hoko Le

Great use of space. The computers are blazing fast. Even offers cheap earphones if you need it. So easy to check out and reserve computers! Printers always available!

Ann

Kind people at the counter. Very helpful.

A E

I love this library! The staff is friendly there are many levels and there is also a great outdoor area in front where you can read, if the weather permits.

Billy Shepard

BUM'S BUM'S BUM'S It would be an ok library but this place has 90% homeless people. They pee in the elevators and the book area.

Don Quach

Quite a nice library. They have quite a bit of access to quite a bit of different literature. If its not available then the ILL will be quite useful.

Andrew Hudgins

Large building, wifi speed is excellent, and there is plenty of space to spread out and have some privacy.

Karima Tidwell

If you want to spend a quiet and relaxing afternoon reading or just surf on the Internet, go to the TX Public Library. You will find all the books you can think of. The building itself is beautiful (don't forget to take pictures of it).

Melissa Padilla Wegner

Posting for both HPL & Passport Services. City of Houston should do more to provide an area for homeless people. There are a lot of homeless but from my little observations they keep to themselves and are just looking for a place to keep cool. Children's section is on the 4th floor. Only saw a few families and enough staff for helping. The passport services were easy. You apply for an appointment online & they text you the availability. Got several time updates by text. Easy, fast and efficient. Friendly staff. Bring your checkbook to pay for fees. 2 checks needed.

Nolan Head

Convenience, svcs., hospitality

Thaddeus Nero

This library is great for all ages. Only downside is the homeless that stink up the men restroom and the disrespect by them but this library get a five because of the outstanding workers that make the library a great place.

George Benaroya

The best and worst of the Houston Public Library. Many things we don’t have at other libraries, but a major drawback for those who need to use it. See below

Travis Hookham

A nice public library. Worth a visit if you're in the downtown area.

Machin3gun DAV

It's a super place for all to learn and improve!!!

Sharon Edenburg

It takes forever to set up a library card.

Sarai Baylor

This is a beautiful building, not to be missed. It really is spectacular, the most beautiful library I have ever visited. The history of the building is so interesting and the interior is amazing. It's free to visit too.

Mike Hunt

Lots of drug addicted homeless people who smell like they just soiled themselves. ..

adanel avalis

I don't have any problem with the homeless. .but...usually the libraries are quiet... nobody keeps the order... noisy library...

Mila

I love coming here just to do my homework and relax. This is what I do with my weekends.

Noemi Muro

Really great place and excellent customer service!

N C

The staff are doing what they can, but obviously the city does not invest in services for the homeless so they come here. The bathrooms are third-world, with no soap or towels and a horrid smell. The homeless are "showering" in the sinks. There are police and security patrolling the library so it's reasonably safe, but rather than spend all those resources on that, why not build a real homeless shelter instead of making the library do double duty? I would not take my children here, as it wouldn't be safe for them and they could not use the bathroom.

Christina Cyrax

Love the book selection here. The bathrooms are clean. It is constantly filled with homeless people and it is hard to find a place to sit

Loston Moore

Real nice library go there all the time. I like it.

Tahisis Lopez

Great place to be in! There's obviously a variety of books. For people who need a quiet place to be at, this is the right place.

Jason Gamble

The reference librarian there is outstanding and most helpful

Karmelita Straight

The building is fabulous, they allow the homeless to sit inside and outside and they smell of weed and pee. While using the computers people were talking on their phones and listening to loud music that you can hear through their earphones. There are security guards and police officers on the property to control the large homeless crowd and make sure they are not stealing. The bathrooms are very disgusting, and since the majority of there customers are homeless......be prepared to flush a toilet full of feces. I don't recommend this library, but if you have to go; grab your books and get out.

mumtaz younis

I fail to see the rational behind limiting borrowing of video to 2 per month. I suggest making the limit 2 borrowed regardless of time.

Brad Rampp

Huge library. One of USA’s biggest.

kirt walters

Decent library, would be 5 stars except the smell of piss, the homeless wines, and the drug dealing going on upstairs in the teen section

Danny Broomfield

Doesn't even deserve 1 star. DO NOT bring any electric devices expecting to be able to plug them up when they start running low on battery, because the local homeless have taken over the entire facility. I don't even feel safe here anymore.

Ryan Cirilo

Let me try rating again, since the first time I rated it was graciously deleted. The building and its collection of reading material is respectable and quite nice. The staff seemed to be knowledgeable. It is by far and without a doubt the "patrons" that frequent the establishment. Many of the homeless or population that is down on their luck enter the building to get out of the Houston heat and with them they bring their foul odors and stench. More than twice I have noticed them use the restroom and they don't even bother to flush their excrement. I truly feel if they don't pay taxes then they shouldn't use the taxpayer's funded facilities. You can also pay to park under the building or metered parking is available. Bring change, many "patrons" ask for that.

Marty Troyer

Comfortable seating, plenty of computers.

Akilah Irby

This library is beautiful. I went here to study once before since the book I needed were not allowed to be loaned out. I am in love with the ceiling and the marble steps are absolutely gorgeous. Definitely a must see place!!

Erika Snell

Went to apply for a passport. The whole process from the minute I walked in took 10 minutes. Came with the form filled out and all my needed documents and had no line. Everyone was so helpful and nice. Loved it!

Fredi Rosa

Many reviewers constantly complain about the homeless here. Honestly, it's not as bad as many say it is. Every major city has them and every downtown library in major cities encounter these same issues. Although there is a fair amount of …

Noele Nguyen

Clean place and friendly staff. Just wish the parents teach their kids to use their inside voices.

J.E. Astala

Very friendly staff went out of their way to help me find what I was looking for and answered all of my questions. Books and categories were all clearly marked. I was able to start checking books out the same day as I got my library card. I was also interested in seeing what the view from the highest floor open for public was like, so I went over to the fourth floor, which was the books and game area for teenagers. It had been divided into different sections, small tables for studying in one corner, very comfy seats around TV, computers and video games, etc. everything you could imagine teenagers to want.

Alex Jimenez

It looks so nice l

Raechel French

What a great resource to have downtown. Unfortunately, it seems that the only people who frequent this location are folks who are a bit down on their luck. So, at times it can be a bit awkward here, although security does a good job about making sure you are are solicited for money (although it might still happen). Lots of great resources from books to CDs to DVDs to newspapers. I would go here on my lunch break from work and pick up books/media that I requested from other locations. Self checkout was quick, easy and very convenient.

Lois Sanborn

A great resource, but the librarians in the stacks can be a little rude.

S. Gil

My computer was not properly hooked up to the printer. Staff was unhelpful; she was too busy texting in order to fix the problem and did not explain the nature of the technical difficulty. There's another man who works there who is a patronizing sob who needs charm school. Nobody there is a librarian so good luck. Reading materials are subpar and most do not serve any educational purpose unless one thinks that Jesse James' and George W Bush's autobiographies are instructional. Open hours are no good unless you are a child, elderly, unemployed or a welfare recipient.

Brian TheFlorist

Nothing but high marks. The staff is Friendly and helpful. If you ask questions they will share the availability of resources you may have overlooked.

Adrian Bardt

quiet .. plenty of computers

carol

i love the library system. it offers a lot. especially for somebody like me with low income, 20 years!!.. and the resources are amazing. Thank You!!

Linh Nguyễn

They are nice all the time <3

Katy Badel

Campus used to be unnecessarily loud. Not very useful for studying or anything that requires a quiet environment. You can see that they're trying to make an effort to improve. It's still loud at times, but the librarians now acknowledge it and try to correct it...for the most part.

Laurinda Messenger

The beautiful library of Houston, TX is a place to come together in a perfect mix of culture, art and architecture. Do not miss the chance to visit from the library, the exposure of one of the most important documents in American history: an original copy of the Declaration of Independence handwritten by Thomas Jefferson himself.

Deepa Menon

Large building, fantastic selection of books. Go on a Sunday with kids and family for an enjoyable day. Comics for Ricky, Books for Casey, Textbooks for an exam, it's got everything. Just park yourselves there with a nice big pile of books and hours can pass without u noticing it. Also every Texan res can get a free membership. Get one, the library's amazing. All in all, GREAT experience!

Olga Cristina Cusco

This library is a HOMELESS SHELTER! Filled with homeless people and their bags of stuff!

RAMCHARGER TEXAS

You'd be better off at an harris county library. The front desk clerk is something out of this world rude. Early 30's caucasian female dressed like a Butch had every opportunity to help me in a polite manner. She had a smart word and tone to everything I freaking said like she was a teen on her 24/7 period. (No offense to the real ladies). I don't know how bad a day I have but when I work in customer service and I sign up for that job. You should provide great customer service minus the rude undertones

Sfff R

Went in for a passport and they were nice and helpful. Very patient.

Cedric Kelly

Just chillin' at the library.

Kahrnijj

Out of town tourist, intown for a local event I was competing professionally in. Last night in town out here for the weekend and All my buddies scattered around the area at different bars across town. So I wanted to buy a drink and kick it. I was at a few bars before this one buying myself drinks and others. I Walk up to the "library" Approached the front door, guy ID me and said sorry we don't allow basketball shorts. I come from Utah where it's winter and it's actually snowing right now and I didn't even expect Texas to be so dang hot. So I had breathable clothes for myself so I could be comfortable and have a good time. I even had fresh-in style shorts and I'm 6'4. So after he said this I peaked my long neck in there to see if any of my friends were even there?Guess what, one of my friends was in there and he's kind of a lone wolf. Not in a bad way. It was super slow, low energy and a bunch of guys. Seriously, I saw 20 + guys, factually no girls at all. Only females I saw were the tourists walking by the building outside lmao. The Crib wasn't even poppin. Y'all want good memories and to mingle with the opposite sex. Dead serious, there's a few good bars not too far with high energy and cute girls. I can't believe they'd have that kind of rule in a hot state. I even had a few hundred dollar basketball shoes on and a nice shirt. Oh well, lmao instead I let Them curve me and tweeted out! Haha the rest of the people that knew me, which is a lot of people. That's hundreds in profit down the drain. Ego people that are athletic ... is just straight dumb , especially someone that knows people and brings people. Facts

Steve Lee

The good: large building with 4 floors, lots of tables to work, obviously huge library with good selection , parking available in underground garage ($2 per hour). The bad: the bathrooms smell and on my recent visit, I had to go to a different level just to get soap. The ugly: there are homeless here, and some areas may smell like pee. I'm assuming it's a homeless person with pee on them. And... When I sit down, I have to think to myself, "did someone pee in my seat??"... Yikes! Verdict: good place to work if you happen to be downtown and need quiet and need to spread out. However, there are other libraries that I'd rather work and research at.

Amanda Bautista

I do not recommend this library! Filled with homeless people and a smelly environment../:

Diego Verano

nice place, furniture, books, good staff but unfortunately smelly (dirty restrooms) and a lot of homeless persons

Evaristo Munoz

Just to be aware need to take money order ready and log in on the phone to get service and don’t waste any time we were the first ones there but dint know how it works and we’re like the last one to take care off and they open at 10 am but today they did open till 1030 and for the passport at 11 FYI

Kevin M. Cook

Wow! This place is pretty incredible, and surprisingly nice. Yes, it is frequented by indigent people. I, myself, have witnessed first-floor bathroom sink showering. Who cares? What would you have them do? Public libraries are meant to be public spaces, and our infrastructure and community welfare programs are woeful. I don’t fault the library for that. There are tons of computers, tables, seating area. It definitely gets obnoxiously loud - I bring headphones when I come here because people are frequently shouting at one another. That is definitely annoying, and if the people I heard shooting at one another last night when I was there were on Google Maps, I’d give them 1-star reviews, but I’m not advocating for policing the space more stringently. There’s already a great, big, fat security guard who struts around telling people they can’t sleep - maybe let them sleep quietly for an hour or two and they’ll shout less. It’s a terrific library, well-stocked/equipped. If you find yourself annoyed by low-income/indigent individuals claiming sanctuary, steer clear. But if you’re not bothered, it’s actually a gorgeous space and a terrific resource.

Khefa Nosakhere

Reasonably friendly staff. Professional and caring.

Saurabh Limaye

Huge library with a large selection of books. There are way too many homeless people outside though.

Kesavan Muthuvel

I love this place. One of my favorite in Houston. More collections in international languages. I always try to visit whenever I find time.

Ms. LD

Pay for parking... terrible 2.00 to start and 1.00 every 1/2 after...

Noe Huerta

Large variety of books and films.

Jana Black

A great place to go read and check out books and other media! The people are always courteous and I love the building! Last time I was here a few years ago they overcharged me due to their own error. 4 stars! coulda been 5!

A dot

It is quiet but it doesn't have many books that I like. I still like it though

Shana Hill

No bueno. Showed up for scheduled baby story time and because we were the only ones to show up they canceled it. Go to the heights library for baby friendly activities.

Margarita Torres

Very kind and helpful staff!

Jason Miller

this library is awesome!!! great choices of book and very big. there is alot of "homeless" ppl but they are kind and respectful. i dont understand why these comments are so mean to the homeless bc they are human being. they dont bother anyone.

Kenneth Fleming

The staff is ok but the restrooms are awful.

Vanessa Deleon

Unclean restrooms in the ladies and the toilet had lots of toilet paper inside and having pee and smells bad too.

Vierge Libre

I needed to charge my phone a few minutes and there was nowhere to do it

Sumeyye Osman

Unfortunately I have to agree with most of the negative comments listed. There should be more regulations for the crowd control as they bring food, leave the remnants of their food and their packages on the benches inside the library, also they do not even bother washing their hands so it is concerning in terms of health.

Arielle Abbey

It was alright, the people were very kind. I loved the set up, how its built three stories.

Business Hours of Houston Public Library - Central Library in Texas

SUNDAY
1–5PM
MONDAY
10AM–5PM
TUESDAY
10AM–8PM
WEDNESDAY
10AM–8PM
THURSDAY
10AM–8PM
FRIDAY
10AM–5PM
SATURDAY
10AM–5PM

PHONE & WEBPAGE

Houston Public Library - Central Library en Texas
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