Terrazas Branch, Austin Public Library - Austin, Texas

A V.

Even though there are security guards in the parking lot there are still homeless people walking through not minding their business. I saw from the reflection of my truck there was a man who stopped and stared into the inside of my truck to see what I had while I was unloading my son to go to story time! I turned around quick and he walked off fast. Obviously up to no good.

I know this is a public place but come on. There is definitely an open door policy here with no ID or library card checks. Because of this open door policy there are so many homeless people hanging out inside that are not reading a book and just sitting there basking in the heat or AC, restrooms, and computers. Needless to say it’s unsanitary as well. Probably dealing and definitely tweaking. Probably wouldn’t smell so bad if they weren’t there. Feels dangerous like one of those guys could flip any moment.

Also the homeless guys peaking through the windows in the conference room while there are babies there for story time, and then other homeless people using the windows for mirrors again right outside of the kid play/read area. Just downright out of hand to introduce children into this kind of atmosphere. The homeless people take priority over everyone else’s comfort level even small children and parents let alone mothers who are there with their children alone.

I give this place two stars because the staff definitely deserve 5 stars however it’s not their fault the atmosphere and clientele are what makes this place a glorified trap house.

Ryan L.

I just wanted to add to one of the recent reviews here saying this branch is really sketchy -- it is alongside the Ruiz location. Against my better judgement I also brought my child to the babies and book event at Ruiz and got into an altercation with a mentally ill man who pulled out a pencil as a shank. I refused to come to this location after one visit. These branches have fallen apart quickly. The morale of the librarians is low; upper library management is out of touch with the conditions on the ground and refuses to listen to the former who've requested an onsite officer like other locations. Local news outlets (KXAN) covered this story last year. I highly recommend you take your kids elsewhere -- either a safer library or Book People for similar events. It's sad to say but the libraries in this area aren't safe places for kids.

Kenzie M.

Good library to help the community- not great for working individuals. The meeting rooms are not sound proof, and individuals tend to be quite loud in this library. Would not recommend booking a private room.

L B.

Very elegant place, great architectural design. Great atmosphere for readying, working on projects and studying. Great view to the river. Amazing place overall. Need to be kept clean by all people using it, since it is really beautiful now that it is new.

Roy C.

Mark, the lead staff depending on what time of day, is great. APL's policy/system is terrible about misused cards

kris S.

Terrazas is a bit small and seating constrained. Though it has a good sized meeting room. The facility shows its age in the toilets

Jack A.

This one depends on what you need. If your a fancy person, just go to the main library just down the road. This library is mostly to help the homeless.

Armani H.

I like it and everything but the keyboards and mouse's are very dirty and greasie and also I have an idea y'all should make a kids or teens place were they only have computers for teens and kids