West Branch Library
🏢 Berkeley Public Library · BERKELEY, California
West Branch Library
The West Branch is the first public library in California certified Net Zero Energy by the International Living Future Institute, and as of 2015 the largest net-zero-energy library building in the United States.
🕑 Library Hours
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Thursday | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Hours may vary on holidays.
📍 Location & Contact
Address: 1125 University Ave., BERKELEY, CA 94702
Phone: 5109816270
Website: berkeleypubliclibrary.org
📖 About West Branch Library
<p>Opened in its current LEED Platinum form, the West Branch at University Ave. and San Pablo is a landmark of sustainable library design. It was the first public library in California to earn Net Zero Energy Building certification from the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), the second ZNE public library in the entire country, and the largest ZNE library by square footage in the U.S. as of February 2015. The branch earned AIA COTE Top Ten and AIA East Bay Design Award recognition, and its rooftop solar panels partly power publicly available curbside EV charging stations outside. It is also home to Berkeley READS, the city's adult and family literacy program, and hosts bilingual baby storytimes and Family Game Nights.</p>
⭐ What makes this branch special
- 1st public library in California certified Net Zero Energy Building (ILFI) — 2nd in the U.S.
- Largest net-zero-energy library building in the U.S. by square footage (as of 2015)
- LEED Platinum & AIA COTE Top Ten award winner
- Rooftop solar panels power curbside EV charging available to the public
- Home to Berkeley READS — the city's adult and family literacy program
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the West Branch a 'net-zero energy' building?
The West Branch generates as much energy as it consumes annually through its rooftop solar array and high-efficiency design. It was certified Net Zero Energy Building by the International Living Future Institute (ILFI), making it the first public library in California and the second in the U.S. to earn that designation.
Is there EV charging at the West Branch Library?
Yes. Publicly accessible curbside EV charging stations are available outside the West Branch at 1125 University Ave., powered in part by the library's rooftop solar panels.
What is Berkeley READS and is it at the West Branch?
Berkeley READS is the City of Berkeley's adult and family literacy program, offering free reading and writing instruction to adults. It is housed at the West Branch Library. Contact the branch at 510-981-6270 or visit berkeleypubliclibrary.org for program details and enrollment.