Library or Bookstore with a good reading nook?
Hi friends,
Curling up in a cushy chair in a bookstore or library is probably one of my and my daughter's (she's 9) favorite things in the world. I can't seem to find a bookstore, or library, with comfy seating where we can do this. Does anyone know of a cozy reading corner/nook at a bookstore or library? I've looked online and am completely at a loss. Thank you so much.
Shreya
Aug 24, 2022
Parent Replies
Have you tried the Lafayette library?
Covid may have changed things, but if you're willing to go through the tunnel the Orinda library had several nice reading spaces indoors and out last time I was there. It's walking distance from BART. My guess is other Contra Costa library branches have reading areas, too.
I'm not sure if this is cozy enough but the San leandro main library has upholstered chairs in the teen section and children's section that you can sit and read on.
Hi Shreya, Berkeley’s North Branch Library has cozy books with leather reading armchairs in both their children and adult sections. It’s quite peaceful and the library itself is beautiful with the atrium welcoming you at the entrance.
Some libraries with good children's/YA reading areas:
North Berkeley. Branch; Claremont Branch; Albany Library; San Pablo Library.
East Bay Booksellers (on College) has good YA/kids sections.
I’ve always thought Diesel bookstore on College (at Kales) has a nice sunny front window - with a big bench cushion, and they’re super nice and don’t care how long you sit and read.
One of my favorite reading spots with the nook at the Claremont public library in Berkeley.
The Oakland main library children’s room has some nice window seats with cushions (at least they did pre-pandemic and I THINK I saw them there recently).
Hi there,
The Orinda library has a lot of cushy sitting areas, near windows. It is easy to spend lots of time there!
Also, the Claremont branch of the Berkeley library has a fire going in their fireplace during the winter months, and couches in front of it. I have fond memories of sitting with my daughter, reading together by the fire.
Hope you find your nook. : )
All Best,
Miranda
Milpitas library has booths and is clean. It's far but very nice.
One idea is to call and ask the contra costa library system. They are closing the Kensington library for 2 weeks and I hope they put something like this in for kids when it reopens. Good luck.
Lafayette Library children's area.
North Berkeley Branch
San Leandro Library has nice seating and a pretty large children's library.
It's been a while since I've visited, but I always find a Barnes and Noble to be a good place to sit with a book. They have comfy chairs and no one ever really hassles you about posting up there for a while. Probably have to go to Emeryville to find one though. I think you're best bet for a 9 yr old might be to find a good public library like some others have suggested, plus a library has more options for kids.