Tarea Pitman Hall South Berkeley branch library

The South Library and Tool Lending Library have recently reopened one block north of Ashby BART. There is no designated parking lot, but ample street parking is available. Need to fill the rest of your visit to S. Berkeley? See our Parent’s Guide to the Lorin District.

What to expect

This small building really packs it in. The library is modern and very pretty with ample natural light, art everywhere, adorable little nooks for reading with children, and a few hands-on toddler play zones. Even the water fountains are a work of art.

There is a large shelf stocked with (free-cuz-its-the-library) DVDs to borrow upon entering. Book rooms were separated by age and interest. Five internet-enabled work stations were occupied with Minecraft the day I visited but I suspect that is not their main purpose.

Children’s Activities

Tuesday mornings at 10:15 is Tiny Tots Storytime. Intended for children ages 12-36 months and their parents/caregiver to explore the joy of books and language in a highly participatory program of books, songs, finger plays and movement activities.

Borrowing Tools

The tool lending library is about as Berkeley as you can get. You can check out basic hand tools and power tools using your library card! Find out more about the hours and policies of the tool lending library. It does have a small parking lot for loading and unloading tools.