Coconut Grove Branch Library

The Coconut Grove Branch Library is such a gem! I was there this week and the fantastic Jennifer Hernandez (branch manager) gave me the loveliest tour. I could see how much thought goes their incredible programming. I was also impressed with the file cabinet converted into a mini food pantry.

Coconut Grove branch is a part of the Miami-Dade Public Library System. Historic building, many programs available for adults and children. Downstairs is entire area for kids very nice for families. Parking is difficult on weekends but worth the walk.

A charming library in the town center provides a joyful and engaging environment for kids and parents to come together. We love the weekly Storytelling and 'Talking is Teaching' events where kids sing, dance, learn, and listen to stories. The librarians are wonderful, playful, and kind-hearted, and my kids have developed a love for books and stories thanks to our adventures at the Coconut Grove Library.

Small neighborhood library that’s great for kids. You walk into an open space with high ceiling that’s flooded with natural sunlight. If you go down the stairs there’s a dedicated children’s playroom with lots of childrens books. I believe they also have family story times at this location. Went on a weekday morning with my kiddo and there was only one other family there so it was nice and quiet. There’s a park and playground right across the street so it’s perfect for kids to spend sometime in the area.

The place is small, but quiet and really nice. Unlike the main library, this is not used as a homeless shelter. I am sorry and I know that a library is a space for everyone, but this one really is, because here there is silence and there are no disrespectful people eating and talking on the phone as if it were a cafeteria. Please keep this space free of disrespectful people who do not know that a library is a space that should be respected.

A total five-star experience.

I don’t like when this women comes whatever her name is she ripped off my kid a toy off his hands. Here’s an imagine right before she does it. You shouldn’t touch other people kids that’s first. Second there were many other kids grabbing bunch of toys off that box and she only did that to my kid. Third, if you don’t want them playing with it you put it on a high surface so they grab it.

The Coconut Grove Library is a hidden gem! It has a rich history that dates back to 1895, making it one of Miami's oldest libraries. Tucked away amidst the lush greenery of Coconut Grove, this library offers so much more than just books. The serene atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to escape the hustle of daily life and delve into your favorite novel or research project. Staff is friendly and helpful. They genuinely care about the community, making everyone feel welcome. The library's collection is diverse and well-maintained, catering to readers of all ages and interests. For families, there are numerous Storytime programs that are fun and interactive, great for the little ones. They host a wide array of community events and workshops, offering something for everyone. The list of free programs being offered is available on their website. Beyond books and programs, the library also provides essential services to the community. It has a free food pantry and accepts donations of clothing, nonperishable food, and toiletries to support those experiencing homelessness in the area. Whether you're a local resident or just passing through, the Coconut Grove Library is definitely worth a visit!

Great small, quiet, but nice library in Coco grove! They have a self check out kiosk and ample computers. The only thing I will complain about is the parking; the adjacent lot is VERY expensive ($5 for half an hour) and street parking in the area is definitely a hit or miss. Surprised and a bit disappointed that there isn't a lot for parking that belongs to the library.

Love this little libe! Ive only used it for studying/working, the adult book selection looks pretty limited but I haven't explored all the sections yet. It's super clean and quiet, they always have someone wiping down tabletops/chairs (I'm assuming as a COVID precaution) and a security guard so I feel safe to leave my laptop on the counter when taking a break!

The library has recently gotten a historic marker to mark it's long history in the Grove. The library was founded by Kirk Munroe and his wife Mary Barr Munroe as the Pine Needles reading club on June 15, 1895. This was prior to the city being incorporated in 1896. A building devoted to the library was built in 1901. The land for the library was donated by Commodore Ralph Munroe with the stipulation that the grave of his wife Eva Munroe would be maintained. Eva came to Florida from Staten Island with her husband Ralph Middleton Munroe who designed yachts. Shortly after giving birth to her daughter in 1881 Eva contracted tuberculosis. Ralph brought her and her siblings to Miami hoping the milder winter climate would improve their health. The baby stayed behind with her grandmother and died shortly after they left. The Munroes settled at the mouth of the New River where Eva was buried when she died on April 2, 1882. Ralph went back to Staten Island and when he returned to settle in Coconut Grove he purchased 40 acres of bay front property where he built the Barnacle which is the oldest home in Miami still in the location where it was built. He had Eva's grave moved to in it's present location and it is the oldest marked grave in Miami. The library operated in that small building built in 1901 until 1957 when the city offered to build a new one. The current library was built in 1963. It was designed to be modern with air conditioning while at the same time look rustic in homage to the library that came before. The firm T. Triplett Russell and Associates were selected to design the 6.400 square foot library. The western wing of the library was created to look like the original library with oolitic limestone and a wrap around porch. I love how the building resembles the library from 1901. This was a wonderful update to make the library usable for today's citizens of the Grove while preserving the heritage of the past.

A cute historical libary right in the centre of Coconut Grove located opposite Peacock Park. Hidden away behind pretty trees and foliage, this sweet library awaits you. Every time I have been the staff are friendly and the place is pretty quiet. A nice reprieve for me whilst one of my charges attends football practice. I definitely appreciate the air conditioning. Also the children's section is on the lower floor and has a few PCS, tables and chairs, plenty of DVDs and books.

This library is the epitome of what I think of when I think Coconut Grove: a snuggly bungalow that's just a touch outdated. But at the end of the day... it has everything you need! The branch is small compared to others I've been to, but I request most of my books online so I have little need to browse. If you're looking for a big selection, you may be better off heading to Coral Gables. The two or three times I've been, I was surprised by how many people were inside reading or using the computers, but there have always been a few seats left. The people who work at this branch are the friendliest library workers I've encountered - usually the people seem angry at me for checking out a book (isn't that the point of the place?) but the ladies who work here always have big smiles on their faces. Parking is a major issue in this area so that knocked at least one star off for me. It's a pain to pay to park if you're just running in to drop off or pick up something. It's also FREEZING in there - think there's a problem with the AC so if you plan to hang out there, bring a sweater (or if you're constantly cold like me, a winter coat!).

3.5 stars... This library looks small and is pretty hidden from the street, but it's actually bigger than it looks from the outside. They have a kids area downstairs and a great movie selection for adults. For parking, there is street parking or a parking garage next door, but both charge $1.50/hr. Despite being pretty old, this library is clean and well kept.

Just a library. Nothing all that special, but as a branch throughout Miami they're sweet. You can get whatever you want delivered to your library of choice and there's very little, at least of what I look for, that they don't have. The work spaces aren't great, but it's a public library so my expectations aren't high. It does the job. The staff is friendly and very helpful all the time. I come sometimes daily and always get nice smiles.