Guelph Public Library - Main Library - Guelph, Ontario

Anna P

a very nice library - I was only able to drop in for a short visit - but I was impressed with the number of books and other items that can be borrowed there. Looks like it is a very vibrant location offering many interesting programs (when I was there an Era themed program was offered for Swifties!). 3 levels (basement, 1st and 2nd floor) with an elevator for accessible access. There are public washrooms and water fountain/bottle filling station. I loved their current display on Kintsugi by the main entrance. it was a pleasure to visit!

Jithin Varghese

Wide collections of books. Internet access and amble place to sit and just read until 8:00 PM. Free membership if you have a photo ID with address in Guelph. Furthermore, do have facility to take prints at a cost. Great deal, go ahead become a member.

Alexander Green (Zenchi)

Guelph Public Library on 100 Norfolk St is located just off the heart of DownTown Guelph making it somewhat of the right ventricle to the city heart compared to the other GPL locations and Bookmobiles that act as a supporting cast around the city.

As the Main Branch you'll find many services, programs, resources, events and outreach initiatives available to you. You can even get your Guelph Public Transit card at the front desk.

You see it's more than just borrowing a book to read at a GPL and anyone can become a member but you'll get more options if you provide ID and details if you're a Guelph resident for more access.

In my observations I've found Staff to be generally cordial and informative towards visitors and very eager to assist and make suggestions to your needs. The building is clean, and the selection of available material be it books, movies, or even Conservation, Genealogy, and Local Guelph history information is vast for researching fellows like myself out there.

Please be fully aware that many different people from all walks of life use this branch, and the vast majority of patrons are kind and respectful to the best of their abilities as any other. However, some are not. At times there may be a frustrated visitor, a belligerent individual or more innocently just a person suffering a mental health related issue.

These are not issues to be ignored or stigmatised and each is handled on a case by case basis by staff or security if need be but with that said while the branch is a safe location one should always be vigilant, empathetic to the plights of others and if you have young children to keep them in sight or at least be aware of their locations in the building.

With that said, there are many cameras throughout the building for security and peace of mind. I am just making you my dear reader, aware of the reality, and that goes for any location.

You'll find many nearby stores, restaurants, a bus stop, clinic, and more nearby. Remember, this is downtown.

I really must recommend checking out the services available on the expanding virtual library so do give a visit to the frequently updated Guelph Public Library website at https://GuelphPL.ca and check out the Digital Library section for information on apps you can use to access e-books and audiobooks available to members as well as the other information on their website including catalogue information, online resources and details of current events and services.

I hope you enjoy your visit at this or any of the other Guelph Public Library locations real soon.

Zeinah Kalati

Valuable place for downtown. Very accessible. The staff is very approachable and always wanna make sure you’ve got what you need whether its books or printing needs or computer needs. Support your public libraries. This place acts as a warming center as well which is ESSENTIAL and amazing. The online access is also quite comprehensive from magazines to audiobooks. Always love passing by the library to pick up books while walking my dog.

kirankumar deshpande

It was okay, but I saw some visitor in library not using good language and have the smell of weed. Otherwise its okay.

Benjamin Hartmans

Is this building kind of gross? Yes. Does it look kind of like a nuclear bunker? It sure does. Are the washrooms closed most of the time? Yup. HOWEVER, despite it's worn out charms, I kind of like it. Its really the heart and soul of downtown. Its got most of the books you'll ever need. The staff are angles. And most importantly its serves as an essential haven for those in need. Its got computers and places to study for those who don't have them. Libraries are not just book repositories but have evolved into a general public good which is designed to tie the community closer together and serve all with dignity and equality. Therefore, despite it being a rather ugly place on the surface, I will always take pride in our flagship public library because its such an important part of our community and city. So next time you visit, try not to be turned off by its rough edges and rather look at the bigger picture of this institution!

Maple Ippersiel

This used to be a good community place. However, during the pandemic they loosened the return times and never told me when they changed the policy. Today, I was told they sent my account to collections, twice. However no one ever told me or sent me a letter. This will beat up my credit score, though I have never not returned an item in my life.

Secondly, as a support worker in the community. They refuse to lend more items out to my client with disabilities, even though my client returned all past items.

This is no longer a good community resource. It has now become an anti-social aggressive agency. So be aware, and instead use Netflix, support local book stores, and use the free little libraries.

Krista Carrigan

Im so amazed with the service at this library. Hold requests and ILLs are fulfilled so quickly and the staff are so helpful and friendly. A huge thank you to the folks who work here.