
Riverside Main Library
A modern, spacious library in downtown Riverside, offering abundant natural light, scenic views, and a welcoming atmosphere for readers and students.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more seating

Riverside Main Library
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more seating

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern, spacious library in downtown Riverside, offering abundant natural light, scenic views, and a welcoming atmosphere for readers and students.
"Beautiful library on the inside. Great views. But parking is terrible."

🚗 Parking Strategy
Be aware of parking limitations; you might need to park down the street and pay for meters. :car:
📚 E-Reading Apps
Utilize Hoopla and Cloud Library for e-books. You may need a PIN; calling the library for assistance can be challenging. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spacious and Modern Interior
Main Library Building
A beautiful, well-organized space with abundant natural light and comfortable seating. Perfect for reading or studying.

Scenic Terrace Views
Library Terrace
Enjoy breathtaking views of Mt. Rubidoux and downtown Riverside from the library's terrace.

Vibrant Children's Area
Children's Section
A dedicated and engaging space for young readers, filled with numerous children's books.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Parking Hassles
Extended Hours for More Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Be aware of parking limitations; you might need to park down the street and pay for meters. :car:
📚 E-Reading Apps
Utilize Hoopla and Cloud Library for e-books. You may need a PIN; calling the library for assistance can be challenging. :iphone:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes
This spot is surprisingly dog-friendly, making it a new favorite for some visitors and their furry friends. :dog:
📅 Check Event Calendar
The library hosts various events like story times, craft workshops, and even art performances. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Be aware of parking limitations; you might need to park down the street and pay for meters. :car:
📚 E-Reading Apps
Utilize Hoopla and Cloud Library for e-books. You may need a PIN; calling the library for assistance can be challenging. :iphone:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes
This spot is surprisingly dog-friendly, making it a new favorite for some visitors and their furry friends. :dog:
📅 Check Event Calendar
The library hosts various events like story times, craft workshops, and even art performances. :calendar:
💡 Comfortable Atmosphere
Enjoy the great lighting, air conditioning, and ample seating for a productive study or reading session. :bulb:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Riverside Main Library for its beautiful, spacious, and modern building with abundant natural light and comfortable seating, making it ideal for reading and studying. The scenic terrace views are a significant highlight. However, parking is frequently cited as a major drawback, with nearby college students occupying prime spots, often forcing visitors to park further away and pay for meters.
"New and spacious! Love the building and atmosphere. Free parking by the library. Lots of books, but not Chinese books. Many children books and nice children reading area. Many chairs and tables. Lights and air conditioning are great!"
Mark Yan
"Thank you to everyone who contributed to this library. Everything from the set up to the furniture to all the different sections were throughly though of. This place is a very comfortable space to get lost in a book or get studying done. The terrace has an amazing view of Mt. Rubidoux and downtown. You will get lost here! Thank you again."
JOnas
"Beautiful library on the inside. Great views. But parking is terrible. All the RCC students across the street take all the free parking. So you have to park down the street and pay the meter to go to the free city library. Meanwhile there's a big empty dirt lot right in front of the library sitting empty and unused. Poor city planning. The parking situation discourages us from coming back to this location. We'll visit one of the other city library's with easier access."
Michelle P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Riverside Main Library is located at 3900 Mission Inn Avenue in downtown Riverside, CA. It's a prominent four-story building easily accessible by car.
Yes, there is a small parking lot behind the library. However, parking can be challenging due to nearby college students occupying free spots, often requiring visitors to park further away and pay for metered parking.
Information on specific public transport routes is not readily available, but downtown Riverside is generally served by local bus lines. It's recommended to check the local transit authority's website for current routes and schedules.
As a modern facility, the library is expected to be accessible. Visitors have noted the spaciousness and thoughtful setup, suggesting good accessibility.
The library is situated on Mission Inn Avenue, which bisects the site, and is near Fairmont Boulevard in downtown Riverside.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Riverside Main Library is a public library and offers free admission to all visitors.
The library's hours have been extended. Generally, it's open Tuesday through Sunday, with specific hours varying. Tuesday-Thursday: 10 am - 8 pm, and Friday-Sunday: 10 am - 6 pm.
Yes, you can obtain a library card at the Main Library to access its collections and digital resources.
While many events are free, some special events like the Mayor's Ball for the Arts require tickets. It's best to check the library's event calendar or specific event details for booking information.
The 'Friends of the Library' accept book donations. However, it's advisable to confirm their operating hours for donations, as they may close early on certain days.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
The library has a large collection of books, including many children's books. However, some visitors noted a lack of Chinese books.
Yes, the library offers many chairs and tables, creating a comfortable space for studying and getting lost in a book.
While not explicitly stated in all sources, public libraries typically offer free Wi-Fi and computer access for patrons. It's recommended to confirm upon arrival.
The library boasts a beautiful terrace with great views and a well-designed children's reading area.
Surprisingly, the library is considered a new favorite spot for dog lovers, suggesting a welcoming atmosphere for pets.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The library itself does not appear to have dining facilities. However, it's located in downtown Riverside, which offers various restaurants and cafes nearby.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally advisable to consume food and drinks in designated areas or outside the main library spaces to maintain the cleanliness and preservation of library materials.
Being in downtown Riverside, you'll find numerous dining options within walking distance, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
There is no mention of a cafe within the library building itself. Visitors often pair their library visits with stops at nearby establishments.
It's best to check the library's specific policy on food and drinks. Typically, light snacks might be permitted in designated areas, but full meals are usually discouraged.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in public libraries, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially if using flash or professional equipment.
The spacious interior with abundant natural light, the scenic terrace with city views, and the vibrant children's area offer great photo opportunities.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Check with library staff if you plan extensive shoots.
The library's modern, four-story architecture is quite striking, and exterior shots are generally welcome.
Morning hours often provide the best natural light, illuminating the interior spaces beautifully. The terrace views are also lovely throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Avid Readers & Students
🐶 Pet Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Library's Digital Resources
Beyond e-reading, the library likely provides access to online databases for research, educational materials, and potentially streaming services. These digital offerings extend the library's reach beyond its physical walls, providing valuable resources for students, lifelong learners, and anyone seeking information or entertainment. Taking advantage of these digital tools can significantly enhance your library experience. :iphone:
Getting Started with E-Reading Apps
* Obtain a Library Card: Visit the Riverside Main Library to get your free library card.
* Download Apps: Search for Hoopla or Cloud Library on your preferred app store.
* Log In: Use your library card number and any required PIN to access the content.
* Explore: Browse the extensive catalog of digital media available for borrowing.
Community Events and Programs
Beyond regular programming, the library serves as a venue for special occasions and celebrations. It has hosted events like the 5th annual back-to-school kick-off and has been a site for honoring significant figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to reflect on principles of equality. The library also collaborates with local organizations for events like the Mayor's Ball for the Arts, showcasing performances and supporting the arts community. Checking the library's event calendar is highly recommended to discover upcoming activities and participate in the community life centered around this important local institution. :calendar:
Types of Events You Might Find:
* Children's Story Times and Craft Workshops
* Adult Education and Social Programs
* Cultural Celebrations and Commemorations
* Art Exhibitions and Performances
* Community Outreach and Partnership Events
Architectural Features and Ambiance
One of the most appreciated architectural elements is the library's terrace, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, including Mt. Rubidoux and the downtown cityscape. This outdoor space provides a refreshing escape and a beautiful backdrop for contemplation or relaxation. The overall ambiance is one of spaciousness and comfort, with excellent lighting and air conditioning ensuring a pleasant experience for all patrons. The building's design clearly prioritizes visitor comfort and aesthetic appeal, making it a destination in itself. :camerawithflash:
Key Architectural Highlights:
* Modern Four-Story Design: A visually striking building in the heart of downtown.
* Abundant Natural Light: Large windows create a bright and airy interior.
* Comfortable Seating Areas: Numerous chairs and tables for reading and studying.
* Scenic Terrace: Offers impressive views of Mt. Rubidoux and the city.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit