Reviews of BAnQ Grande Bibliothèque (Bowling Alley)

Jean-Luc Pesant

(Translated) I went there this week, to look for a book following a reservation, well it was like being in the middle of prohibition, security personnel, outside, in the hall, in the corridor facing the room, at the entrance from the local, you must present your card showing that you have a book to collect, Do not enter who wants. Follow green arrows, towards the recovery counter, plexiglass counter, show the reservation #, follow arrows, book recovery, follow arrows, plexi desk, we scan the bar code of my card as well as that of the book. Bingo, I leave the library, thanking the staff. 15 min max. I come out happy. Strange service, but terribly efficient. (Original) J'y suis allé cette semaine, chercher un livre suite à une réservation , hé bien on se serait cru en pleine prohibition , personnel de sécurité , à l'extérieur , dans le vestibule , dans la coursive face au local , à l'entrée du local , faut présenter sa carte démontrant qu'on a un livre à récupérer, N'entre pas qui veut. Suivre flèches verte, vers le comptoir de récupération , comptoir plexiglas, montre le # de réservation, suivre flèches , récupération du livre , suivre flèches , bureau plexi, on scan le code barre de ma carte ainsi que celui du livre. Bingo, je sors de la bibli, en remerciant le personnel. 15 min.max. j'en sors heureux. Service étrange, mais drôlement efficace.

Nuo Cheng

Good for everyone. Love the selection of tourism books

Barbara “Financial Tidbitter” Aboagye

This is a beautiful space to relax and work. It's open to the general public. To borrow books, you do need to have a card. There are enough working space and computers to work with. You can also have a space for your laptop. It's quiet and I do love the ambiance. There are a wide variety of books to choose from. There are video games which you can borrow as well as magazines and manga. The library has a wide variety of resources for kids and adults and all kinds of academic disciplines. There are elevators and easy to move from one floor to the other. The architecture is surely impressive!

Jian Yi Zhang

I had to resubscribe recently and was happy to learn that any administrative fees such as to replace a card had been waved due to the pandemic. Reservations, which I've done a handful, take a minimum of 2 (open) days to process. If you reserve items on Friday, expect to pick it up only by Monday at the earliest. A minor inconvenience.

喜相逢

It's a great place, lots of books, lots of classical music, lots of jazz CDs.

Chuck Barr

Awesome place with remarkable resources for Montrealers...and you can take all the seasons of the Sopranos out for a TV series marathon.

P.H Henry

Amazing place for studying and quietness. Maybe one of the fastest internet you can find in the city from over 250 to 300 mbps speed. I suggest you to come very early at 10 AM to get the best spots possible because it's get very crowded from 12 PM to 19 PM. The staffs very are friendly. You don't need to bring a book to stay here, just don't get caught sleeping by the security guards because it's quite embarrassing. The only downfalls are the lack english books (for the english speaker) ,it's closed on Monday and a lot of homeless people.

Amir

Best library that I've ever seen and experienced. Unlimited resources, books, music, games etc. Amazing service, friendly staff. Love their online service.

Melvin Laur

(Translated) Unlimited access to culture! Thousands of books, a huge collection of magazines, a wide variety of video games and all that accessible with just ... A BANQ card. Easy, free and quick to do, this card gives you access to a rich and varied heritage. Note also that the large workspaces available make it possible to study in a calm and peaceful place. Be careful, however, to get there early: during exam periods, even the smallest spaces are taken by storm! Finally, it is also possible to deposit / borrow in the many libraries affiliated with the BANQ, everywhere in Quebec. (Original) Un accès à la culture sans limites! Des milliers de livres, une immense collection de magasines, une large variété de jeux videos et tout ça accessible avec simplement... Une carte BANQ. Facile, gratuite et rapide à faire, cette carte vous offre l'accès à un patrimoine riche et varié. Notons également que les grands espaces de travail disponibles permettent d'étudier dans un endroit calme et paisible. Attention cependant à vous y rendre de bonne heure : durant les périodes d'examens, les moindres espaces sont pris d'assaut! Enfin, il est également possible de déposer/emprunter dans les nombreuses bibliothèques affiliées à la BANQ, et ce partout au Québec.

Dennie Nguyen

Most beautiful library and the staff there are helpful and kind. You need to visit at least once. They have a huge collections of all materials - every book that I've search up is always available to borrow. One of a kind library!

Eggsy Lin

Fantastic place to study!

Jessie

my kid loves this library!

Maria Becerril

(Translated) This library is wonderful for children and adults, you can find books of all kinds and in many languages, the library is huge and very beautiful, if you visit Montreal do not stop going to the library. (Original) Esta biblioteca es maravillosa para los niños y adultos, encuentras libros de todo tipo y en muchos idiomas, la biblioteca es enorme y muy bonita, si visitan Montreal no dejen de ir a la biblioteca.

Jesper Bexkens

Poor services if you are not a member while they do have the facilities to accommodate. On service level they could learn from the Halifax library.

Barbara-Anne Purtell

(Translated) Very large collection of books, videos and other formats. Always clean, employees and security guards always polite and attentive. The only negative is the door for the disabled at the main entrance ... you have to be an excellent driver if you have a fairly large scooter. The doors are opposite the concrete columns. In addition, in winter, the salt container is against the column outside, facing the entrance for the disabled and installed lengthwise ... in addition to the snow which reduces the maneuvering space . Personally, with my scooter, I only have an inch of play to avoid the column inside. (Original) Très grande collection de livres, vidéos et autres formats. Toujours propre, employés et gardes de sécurité toujours polis et prévenant. Le seule point négatif est la porte pour handicapé de l'entrée principale... il faut être un excellent conducteur si vous avez un quadriporteur assez gros. Les portes sont en face des colonnes en béton. De plus, l’hiver, le bac à sel est contre la colonne à l'extérieure, face à l'entrée pour handicapé et installé sur le sens de la longueur... en plus de la neige qui réduit l'espace de manœuvre. Personnellement, avec mon quadriporteur, j'ai uniquement un pouce de jeu pour éviter la colonne à l'intérieur.

Laughing Man

Good large library but location isnt great

Steven Bjerke

Vast selection of books, newspapers and documents spread out over many floors. Cheap photocopiers and good internet access too. After 7 can get sketchy with a lot of drug users and homeless in the area.

Stephane Tapp

(Translated) An exceptional place. A nice collection of comics, movies, video games and records. We stop there to read, have a coffee and appreciate the architecture. A nice place to study. (Original) Un endroit exceptionnel. Une belle collection de bandes dessinées, films, jeux vidéos et de disques. On s'y arrête pour lire, prendre un café et apprécier l'architecture. Un bel endroit pour étudier.

Olinto Mendez

It is the paradise for readers and researchers, the infrastructure is modern, spacious and beautiful, the collection of works is impressive and the service is of quality. a real treasure in montreal.

pilot kayayan

Best library to study in Montreal! The only sad side is that it’s closed on MONDAYS ???? We need to study as much as possible. Please!!

Aubrey Backscheider

One of my favorite libraries in Montreal. There are enough volumes in English to still be a worthwhile trip to non-french speakers. Check out the vinyl record collection on the top floor. Amazing!

Phat Pham

one of the biggest library in Quebec, especially free to obtain membership.

Sebastien tizi

Cool

Jose Ferreira

(Translated) Apart; the infinity of very interesting documents, the relaxing atmosphere. What service!! (Original) À part; l'infinité de documents fort intéressantes, l'ambiance relaxant. Quel service!!

Natalie Chickee

This is the place I used to make myself bilingual in French! I use to go here everyday and every book or movie I watched in English I found in French.(well almost all) The library is super cool about ordering books, movies and music you want/need. The wifi is fast the 4th floor is my favourite, it's the media section so you can watch films get movies and music watch it there or bring it home. I discovered so much music I love. This is a nice big library and on the weekend it's lively full of people but still nice and quite. I love this place!

Yumi T.

I just love this place!

Rami YAMIN

Great place to be.

Jack Caldwell

I absolutely adore the Grande Bibliothèque in the great city of Montréal! I'm always down to go there, and I do once or twice a week.????

Moh Younis

Lovely place with helpful staffs,

Atena Kavian

The opening hour is very late (10 o’clock). Many people should wait behind the doors until it opens. The activities for children are not interesting.

Gaby Zonana

Well maintained, clean , would definitely recommend as working spaces for students

Rita Li

A nice place to study and to pass time. Every Qubecoise could subscribe here for free and can borrow up to 15 documents or films for one time. Plenty of lounge and spacious tables. Free Wifi access using subscribe card number and password.

Peppermint

They've refreshened the main hall and I really like it, the new furniture looks very 'into the future', calm and smooth so to speak and the main doors are much larger. Wish they get the funds to do the same furniture change on all floors. Maybe one day. We can clearly see this place is constantly improving which is a big THUMBS UP for the management/direction stuff. Abundant collection, the stuff is polite but on the reserved side, study/sitting places could be more and could look fancier (wink to the above named entrance hall). They have vastly improved the self check-out machines, and even placed a few at the upper levels, great idea. On the downside, the computer search site is dated and poorly usable, this is the area they should improve at this point. Their web site is of low quality and confusing, common issue with public/government web sites here in Canada were contracts are given to businesses with low quality standards. This library is located right near the gay district, there seems to be a bit of a 'hook up' atmosphere on the seated places. There is an entire floor for kids located at the basement, nice area where parents come with their smaller kids and spend some time. It has tv screens projecting movies for free with seated places, and a decent collection of cartoon books. That said, the collection for kids is not as complete as the one for adults. I found it particularly lacks in the Movies/DVD shows area. Perhaps the more impressive area, or at least from what I've seen myself, is the graphic novels section for adults, located in an area not visible from the main stairs, so just ask for it. Lots of collections here, surely not everything ever published on Earth, but the management who built this section must have had some knowledge and interest.

Guy Sanscartier

(Translated) No locker to leave a coat. No place to have lunch with what we brought. In my opinion this is not practical. (Original) Pas de casier pour laisser un manteau. Pas d'endroit pour luncher avec ce qu'on a apporté. À mon avis ce n'est pas pratique.

Florencia Gennaro

Excellent place to study

Sun Yueru

The library and the staff went above and beyond in keeping the services accessible during the pandemic. They are incredibly responsive to general inquiries, and fast to adjust to COVID-specific restrictions, e.g. contactless pick-up. Kudos for keeping the library open and running!

Quentin Auvray (golbarg)

Wow. If you want to listen to and discover music, find any kind of book or even just have an awesome elevator ride, go to BAnQ! The building is impressive. Grab two pieces of ID and get your library card done ASAP! You can get books put aside online. Many great cultural events also take place here, be sure not to miss them.

Benoît Eclache

Love it. Great place to work, study, relax, learn something new, etc. The staff is really helpful and can help anyone find what they are looking for. There is also a lot of seats and the WiFi works pretty well.

Jana Abdul Kader

Excellent and awesome service even during the pandemic!!!

GChen

(Translated) Best library I have seen. I live in Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville but I go anyway for everything there. Great place to find comics or mangas in a library. There are so many! The system to bring back the books is awesome. You will see. Full of floors, glazed, huge, clean, technological, a modern library what! There are even secure boxes for connecting cell phones. It proves that it was built not so long ago. Recommended to everyone who lives in Montreal and Montérégie. If you work there, you have time! Create an account, and you'll only have to come back with your family one day. In addition, with an account, you can buy eBooks from home. You will not regret going there. ???? (Original) Best bibliothèque que j’ai vu. J’habite à Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville mais j’y vais quand même pour tout ce qu’il y a là-bas. Superbe place pour trouver des comics ou des mangas dans une bibliothèque. Y’en a tellement ! Le système pour rapporter les livres est super génial. Vous verrez. Pleine d’étages, vitrée, immense, propre, technologique, une bibliothèque moderne quoi ! Y’a même des boites sécurisées pour brancher des téléphones cellulaires. Ça prouve qu’elle a été construite il n’y a pas si longtemps. Recommandée à tout ceux qui habite à Montréal et en Montérégie. Si vous travaillez là-bas, vous avez le temps ! Créer vous un compte, et vous n’aurez qu’à y revenir un jour avec votre famille. En plus, avec un compte, vous pouvez vous procurer des livres numériques, à partir de chez vous. Vous ne le regretterez pas d’y être aller. ????

Edith Brunet-Leblanc

(Translated) Since the official opening, I've lived there, almost always full of happiness. I find it satisfying and enveloping, DESPITE the pandemic and its inconveniences, to find myself within its walls and the members of its staff. (Original) Depuis l'ouverture officielle, j'y vis, presque toujours tout plein de bonheurs. Je trouve satisfaisant et enveloppant, MALGRÉ la pandémie et ses désagréments, de me retrouver en ses murs et les membres de son personnels.

Me

Great library. There's a variety of books, dvd's, and cd's. Not the ideal place to study or do work.

Audrey Anne

(Translated) Yes, this library is big but there are so many people who frequent it that it is not uncommon to have to walk several floors before finding a seat to sit and work. The number of positions for book research could be increased .. but the automated book lending / returning system is working well. (Original) Oui, elle est grande cette bibliothèque mais il y a tant de gens qui la fréquente que ce n'est pas rare de devoir parcourir plusieurs étages avant de trouver un siège pour s'assoir et travailler. La quantité de poste pour la recherche d'ouvrages pourrait être augmentée.. mais le système de prêt /retour de livre automatisés fonctionne bien.

Carma Daria Companiona

This is a huge huge place. 5 floors of tons of resources. If you can't find something to read, watch, listen to, or play here that you would like, then there's little hope. The architecture of this building is especially impressive. Open staircase. Three glass elevators that allow you to see your voyage up or downstairs. I'll definitely be returning!

Gabriel Asselin

(Translated) Is it a prerequisite to be stupid at the reception counter as an employee of the library? If yes I would like to apply for a job :) able to be dry and get paid at once, it will be very nice! (My comment is based on several experiences) See you soon dear employees of BANQ ... (Original) S'agit-il d'un prérequis que d'être bête au comptoir d'accueil en tant qu'employer de la bibliothèque ? Si oui j'aimerais bien appliquer pour un poste :) capable d'être sec et d'être payé à la fois, ce sera très agréable ! (Mon commentaire se base sur plusieurs expériences) À bientôt chers employés de la BANQ...

Lorena

I used to go to this library during final exam season. It is quiet, clean, and the staff was always professional and prompt to assist

Karim Bouchard

(Translated) The archives are majestic. Excessively well preserved documents, the architecture of the place is worthy of Harvard! Very welcoming staff, ready to answer any questions. I call it the library of life! From censuses to old maps, including law books. Beautiful subdued lighting, with lamps at each "office". My favorite place on earth. (Original) Les archives sont majestueuses. Documents excessivement bien conservés, l'architecture de l'endroit est digne de Harvard ! Personnel très accueillant, prêt à répondre à toute question. Je la surnomme la bibliothèque de la vie ! Des recensements, à des cartes anciennes, en passant par des livres de droit. Bel éclairage tamisé, avec des lampes à chaque "bureau". Mon lieu préféré sur terre.

Qiot Riot

Awesome public library. Wish ours back home was like this. Lots of programming for kids and families. quiet areas to just sit and rest. Relatively clean but the bathrooms get used by anyone off the streets. Wish we had more time to explore this place.

Maxence Frenette

Great place to do homework. They have free wifi, ethernet plugs and power outlets.

Vj Kam

This is a huge library with so much to offer to the public. I like that it has an indoor parking and the staff is very helpful.

Hany Shokair

The best

Olivier Joseph

(Translated) The National Library of Quebec is a beautiful modern building, with pleasant light atmospheres. It is an essential place to study, with the shelves of books provided and very accessible. (Original) La Bibliothèque Nationale du Québec est un beau bâtiment moderne, aux ambiances lumineuses agréables. C'est un lieux incontournable pour étudier, aux rayons de livres fournis et très accessibles.

Josh Owen

DISHONEST underground parking fees. First, they don't mention anywhere the cost. Secondly, you have to put a minimum of $2. Finally, you can only buy time in blocs of 30 minutes. Here's how it works: if you want to stay 30 minutes, put $2. If you want to stay 60 minutes, put $4. ATTENTION: if you put $3, it will only give you time for $2 and the machine will eat your extra $1 without any chance to get it back. So if you put $3 you will get time for $2. If you put $5 you will get time for only $4 ! The machine won't return your extra dollar and won't give you time for it.

Elí MuGu

Beautiful and modern library, in the center of Montreal. If you're interested in Canadian history, books or stories. Don't miss it.

Mohamed Alnadjar

You can find almost all books in this nice library

Koraihl

(Translated) A great place to work or study! Many books, videos and CDs! The place is quiet, there are lots of sitting areas for reading or working. Also, the wifi is ok. Subscription for books is not very expensive for residents of Canada! This place is very big and well laid out! (Original) Un excellent endroit pour travailler ou étudier ! De nombreux livres, vidéos et cd ! L’endroit est calme, il y a beaucoup d’espaces assis pour lire ou travailler. De plus, la wifi est convenable. L’abonnement pour les livres n’est pas très cher pour les résidents du canada ! Cet endroit est très grand et bien agencé !

Steven T

Very good place but beware the little sofas! They have bed bugs on them!

B Cadorette

Great place, has everything, books DVDs CDs video games, good wifi, 2 hours computer time per day. Places to watch dvds, listen to LPs, practice keyboards, play social games. Probably lots more.

Imran Chowdhury

I don't think I have anything to add about this place it's as everyone said about it.It is a beautiful and fantastic library i don't think I have ever seen such a gigantic library before in my life.if you go in the alleyway right beside the library you'll find two small bookstores.which has diverse books of diferent languages.

Jim Dymond

Great library and resource....best keep secret is safe and secure parking in basement

Josa Lavoie

Beautiful place

Gytis Niedvaras

Bravo ! Happy to pay taxes for such a well run institution. Well staffed, well stocked, and great online resources.

Cameron Shurtz

Amazing library. Very cool architecture. Worth stopping in.

YM Chao

Peaceful, inspiring and freaking huge!

Gaby Swift

Amazing place!

L B

Aside from the few rude security guards and few aggressive people, it THE library for everyone to go and have a good time reading, listening to music and watching movies. I've been a member since 2012 and I only go there now for my book borrowing. At first I wasn't sure if it was expensive to join or if I had to live downtown in order to join, once learning that they except anyone regardless of municipal heresay I was overjoyed and surprised. So many items and they keep improving and adding more features and services each and every year to make the members more happier. They sell items during the Summer outside til Fall and have the once-a-season merchandising sale. Its truly one of the best places ever built in this city and am very thankful and happy it exist.

J. Joaquín Rosillo

(Translated) Great library. The attention to the reader is very good and the backgrounds are impressive. To highlight the fairly well-stocked section of graphic novel, comic and manga (Original) Biblioteca estupenda. La atención al lector es muy buena y los fondos son impresionantes. A destacar la bastante bien surtida sección de novela gráfica, comic y manga

jeremy petrus

It is the place for that book you were looking for ( French mostly)

Hamid Gerami

The best place on the planet!

Samuel Bouchard

Nice and quiet public space. Good for relaxing, reading, studying... Nice architecture inside.

Dmytro Kuznetsov

I love this library. It's centrally located; the selection if loanable material is impressive, and returns can be made to any city library in Montreal.

James Roche

Simply superb place. Well-designed and a nice integration of robotics --it always a joy to go there. Not to mention the truly fantastic selection of books.

lilia mansour

(Translated) Fairly well maintained in terms of hygiene and covid, but you don't always find the lovre you are looking for remains a magnificent place to have a moment of peace and pleasure among the available books. (Original) Assez bien entretenu côté hygiène et covid, mais on ne trouve pas toujours le lovre qu'on cherche reste un magnifique endroit pour avoir un moment de paix et de plaisir entre les livres disponibles.

Claude Lalande

(Translated) Superb organization in terms of sanitary measures. The relaxation of booking rules is much appreciated and should be maintained. (Original) Superbe organisation en temps de mesures sanitaires. L'assouplissement des règles de réservation est très appréciée et devrait être maintenue.

James Ravel

(Translated) A wide selection of books for everyone. We really enjoy going there to work or just read. On the other hand every time I went there I had the right to work too noisy. We appreciate the underground access of Berri Uquam station (Original) Une large sélection de livres pour tout le monde. On apprécie vraiment y aller pour travailler ou simplement lire. En revanche à chaque fois que j'y suis allé j'ai eu le droit à des travaux trop bruyant. On apprécie l'accès souterrain de la station Berri Uquam

Eric Bates

Extremely easy and efficient. They’re nailing it during covid.

Liddell Lavigne

Love this place!

Denis Vincent

(Translated) Almost endless shelves of books. This place is a paradise. You have to go there and get lost. (Original) Des rayons de livres presque à l'infini. Cet endroit est un paradis. Il faut y aller et s'y perdre.

James Gz

Got fleas and Bed Bugs. This used to be my favorite place to visit. Now its over run with homeless people. They bring fleas & bedsbugs with them while siting on the comfy chairs. I got 20 bites in the 10 minutes I sat there.

Joe, Juhyun Lee

Was temporarily closed due to the pandemic but now reopen to public.

DynV Montrealer

(Translated) An incomparable multimedia experience for the price: free. A museum in the basement outside the main section, a large section for children - very well arranged in the basement, a section open later on the ground floor, many - places to read and browse with free WIFI arranged to maximize natural light, a mini-museum on the 1st floor, the archives section above the auditorium, large magazine & BD sections, an audio-video section on the 4th floor, a mini-museum museum in front of the staircase of the museum on the ground floor, not to mention a selection of documents definitely larger than the libraries of Montreal and librarians (& assistants) in front of the elevator doors. The BANQ is a must for citizens and tourists. (Original) Une expérience multimédia incomparable pour le prix : gratuit. Un musée au sous-sol à l'extérieur de la section principale, une large section pour enfant--très--bien arrangée au sous-sol, une section ouverte plus tard au RDC, de--nombreuses--places pour lire et naviguer avec le WIFI gratuit arrangées pour maximiser la lumière naturelle, un mini-musée au 1er étage, la section archives au-dessus de l'auditorium, de grandes sections magazines & BD, une section audio-vidéo au 4e étage, un mini-musée devant l'escalier du musée au RDC, sans oublier une sélection de documents définitivement plus grande que les bibliothèques montréalaises et des bibliothécaires (& assistants) devant les portes d’ascenseurs. La BANQ est un incontournable pour les citoyens et touristes.

Simone Samuels

Great, clean, renovated, QUIET place to read and study. Good book offerings in both English and French. I love the BAnQ!

Mithula Naik

Spacious, quiet, comfortable and has all the resources you will ever need in a library. The Café is really good too.

Josh Le

All residents of Montreal get a library card! You just need two pieces of ID with your address on one of them. The building is very beautifully constructed, but the magic is inside with access to endless amounts of information. There's access to the library from the Berri-UQAM metro station, so you don't have to brave the elements to feed your mind. Happy learning!

Sylvia Pianista

I think it's a good tourist attraction for people to visit but you got to be quiet, and it's also a great place for professionals to do some work.There's a separate basement for kids with cushions and stuff to do.

Sean Neri

Such an amazing service for the learning community: public library at its best.

Raymond Keith

nice palace to kill some time

Ricardo Fernandez

The good: This place is really great to study they have a lot of resources and reading material. They have desks, comfortable seating places and even space for watching movies in the 4th floor. Located in the downtown area there are plenty of cafes and restaurants around. The bad: Their costumer service is very unprofessional and easy to snap at you with rude remarks. I was inquiring for printing and photocopies and the clerk laughed at me saying they were not a printing house. I didnt understand why they were charging a few fees for late return and upon asking I met with staff that gave me attitude. I paid the fees since I did bring the material late yet dealing woth their costumer service was not a pleasure. Lastly on this note they really dont have a lot of english material, they have more french which is okay for me. The ugly: lots of homeless people or people that seem to be anyway. Watch out for your stuff.

Ian Oliveri

(Translated) What a magnificent library !! I can spend a whole day there. Books galore, workstations, quiet corners, armchairs, an excellent little café on the ground floor (open outside Covid time), a large selection of newspapers and magazines, not to mention the secret archives section ... Its grand staircases central and giant bay windows open up the space ... to the point of opening our minds :-) One of my favorite places in all of Montreal! (Original) Quelle magnifique bibliothèque!! Je peux y passer une journée entière. Livres à profusion, postes de travail, recoins tranquilles, fauteuils, petit café excellent au rez-de-chaussée (ouvert hors temps Covid), grande sélection de journaux et de magazines, sans compter la secrète section des archives... Ses grands escaliers centraux et les géantes baies vitrées ouvrent l'espace... jusqu'à ouvrir nos esprits :-) Un de mes endroits préférés de tout Montréal!

Sô Eau-claire

Love this library, so beautiful and big, you can find anything you want ! People are really nice too.

Julie Esposito

(Translated) Simply splendid library! As much by its architecture as by its collections and the diversity of the documents on offer, this library is a must in Montreal. (Original) Bibliothèque tout simplement splendide! Tant par son architecture que par ses collections et la diversité des documents proposés, cette bibliothèque est un lieu incontournable de Montréal.

Debbie piercey

It is ok

Cynthia Mah

Been coming here for years and it never disappoints! More than just books: DVDs, video games, comics, manga, and music. Accessible from the metro level too, which is a godsend in the winter.

Francois Arpin

(Translated) This library is great. Very large, beautiful design, there is all kinds of information. Nice experience on my side. (Original) Cette bibliothèque est formidable. Très vaste, beau design, on y trouve de tout genre d'informations. Belle expérience de mon coté.

Beatriz Corona

I love this place. Clean, tidy, excellent variety of books and activities for children are wonderful.

Ziyaad D

(Translated) Beautiful architecture, bright. Books, albums, mangazines, films, etc. Lots of choices for all ages. Very close to the berri-uquam metro. (Original) Belle architecture, lumineux. Livres, albums, mangazines, films, etc. Beaucoup de choix pour tout age. Tres proche du métro berri-uquam.

Антоша

I love, love, love, love the library, but this recent bedbug scare got me. Therefore only 4 stars. Its a shame though, a big shame, because it's one of my favorite spots in the city.

Marceline Desbordes-Valmore

(Translated) Perfect place for bookworms, students, strollers etc. I love the design, the mix of materials (wood, metal, concrete). The quiet atmosphere invites study and reading, the choice of books, films, CDs, etc. is vast. I always come with great pleasure and I like taking the time to discover new things. On the other hand, there are not enough outlets to plug in computers and tables and some librarians are not well trained to answer questions relating to specific research: in my case French cinema from the 1920s. (Original) Endroit idéal pour les rats de bibliothèques, étudiants, flâneurs, etc. J'adore le design, le mélange de matériaux (bois, métal, béton). L'ambiance silencieuse invite à l'étude et à la lecture, le choix des livres, films, CD, etc est vaste. Je viens toujours avec grand plaisir et j'aime prendre le temps de découvrir de nouveautés. Par contre, il n'y a pas assez des prises pour brancher les ordinateurs et les tables et certains bibliothécaires ne sont pas bien formés pour répondre à des questions portant sur des recherches précises : dans mon cas cinéma français des années 20.

poonam dangi

Staff is super helpful !!

anil kuldip

Great library, fast internet, good for studying but especially during exam time there is literally non space you can find that you can sit in except if you come like at 10 in the morning, there's like 2 little coffee shops, a lot of restaurants around, and it's connected to the Berri metro station.

Jérôme Carrier

(Translated) Behind this immeasurably ugly building resembling a gargantuan garbage container ... is one of the most complete libraries in Quebec. The place is crowded with people from all walks of life, including the '' Urban Wildlife '' so this place is, in my opinion, not very conducive to reading ... It's better to get what you need and to read or watch elsewhere ... We salute the government's efforts to have a library worthy of the name in the heart of a neighborhood that has the best and worst of Montreal ... At the level of choice it is 9/10, but in terms of the quality of environment for reading ... it's another story ...; 0) (Original) Derrière ce bâtiment d'une laideur incommensurable ressemblant à s'y méprendre à un gargantuesque container à déchets... se trouve l'une des bibliothèque les plus complète du Québec. L'endroit est fort fréquenté par des gens de tout horizons, y compris la ''Faune urbaine'' ce qui fait que cet endroit est, à mon avis, peu propice à la lecture... Mieux vaut aller chercher ce dont on a besoin et d'aller lire ou visionner ailleurs... Saluons les efforts du gouvernement d'Avoir voulu se doter d'Une bibliothèque digne de ce nom au coeur d'un quartier qui a du meilleur comme du pire de Montréal... Au niveau du choix c'Est 9/10, mais au niveau de la qualité d'environnement pour la lecture... c'est une autre histoire...;0)

JJ Junio

I love our public library system and BAnQ is its crown jewel. There are a lot of desks available for everyone on regular days, although you might find yourself looking for a spot when exam week is upon us. You can borrow books, dvds, audio cds, games and use their wi-fi if you have a BAnQ borrower's card which you can easily get if you have a driver's license or other proof of residency documents. They also do have the kids space at the basement where kids could watch movies and read children's books and play games. You could definitely spend a day easily here if you are a book lover! I love this place!

TheNotLearning Channel

An amazing library with a beatifull architecture! The place has even video games! It's brilliant.

Louigi Addario-Berry

I really like this place architecturally. Checking out books is super smooth and the book return conveyer belt is awesome. Too bad that multimedia loans have to be returned back to the BanQ rather than to other Montreal library branches - it would be a big plus if that could be changed. Bustling place, friendly staff. Keep up the good work.

Danial Dehghan

Nice place, the architecture is amazing! Great and helpful staff

Huss Farsani

Awesome place for readers, writers & researchers

Anna

(Translated) We rented a room for group study. The reservation is made by phone or on site. The person who answered the phone was a little wary of the nature of the use of the room, like if I was going to use it for a profit, finally not too pleasant in attitude. Despite this, the use of the room went very well. The room is well soundproofed. I will return without fail. (Original) Nous avons loué une salle pour étudier en groupe. La réservation s'effectue par téléphone ou sur place. La personne qui a répondu au téléphone était un peu méfiante à la nature de l'utilisation de la salle, genre si j'allais l'utiliser pour un but lucratif, enfin pas trop agréable comme attitudes. Malgré ça, l'utilisation de la salle s'est très bien passée. La salle est bien insonorisée. J'y retournerai sans faute.

Robin Leduc

(Translated) Heaven every time I walk into the great library. I love to pick up records every week. It allows me to discover new artists and new bands with a lot more songs in my repertoire. Since I listen to music in FLAC, the music is twice as good as MP3. : D (Original) Un paradis chaque fois que j'entre à la grande bibliothèque. J'adore aller chercher des disques à chaque semaine. Ça me permet de découvrir des nouveaux artistes et de nouveaux groupes avec beaucoup plus de chansons dans mon répertoire. Depuis que j'écoute les musiques en FLAC, les musiques sont 2 fois plus mieux que du MP3. :D

carlo zamparo

I love it

Alex L.

(Translated) Perfect place to study! However you have to go early because the places fill up quickly (Original) Parfait endroit pour étudier! Par contre il faut y aller tôt car les places se remplissent rapidement

Genevieve Tremblay

(Translated) A perfect place! It is a pearl of tranquility in the urban landscape. People are very friendly and knowledgeable, you always find what you are looking for. The coffee served at the small library cafe is excellent and eco-friendly. It is the ideal place to read, study or to advance in its works. The second floor is a little piece of paradise. (Original) Un endroit parfait! C’est une perle de tranquillité dans le paysage urbain. Les gens sont très gentil et compétent, on trouve toujours ce que l’on cherche. Le café servi au petit café de la bibliothèque est excellent et eco-responsable. C’est l’endroit idéal pour lire, étudier ou pour s’avancer dans ses travaux. Le deuxième étage est un petit coin de paradis.

Velodactor Pterodactyl

Books :)

Olivier Lougovoy

(Translated) Great, what am I saying, gigantic library in the city center! Of recent and modern conception, it proposes and brings together very many books and documents in all the fields. From the novel, magazine, tourist guide, road map, video games or blue ray of old and recent films. Several places to settle down: work tables and chairs, unfortunately the comfortable chairs were thrown by prevention against bed bugs. I really appreciate the fact that there are 2 cafes: the Parva one of which is located on the ground floor which includes the news area closing late, a real plus! A big problem in my opinion: the floor for children is incomplete: it lacks a real comfortable space for infants and babies, with games, toys and books. I am speaking here of a really dedicated space. (Original) Grande, que dis-je, gigantesque bibliothèque en plein centre-ville ! De conception récente et moderne, elle propose et réunit de très nombreux livres et documents dans tous les domaines. Allant du roman, magazine, guide touristique, carte routière, jeux vidéo ou encore blue ray de films anciens et récents. Plusieurs endroits pour s'installer : tables de travail et chaises, malheureusement les fauteuils confortables ont été jeté par prévention contre les punaises. J'apprécie beaucoup le fait qu'on y trouve 2 cafés : le Parva dont l'un est situé au rez de chaussée qui comprend l'espace actualités fermant tard, un vrai plus ! Un bemol important à mon sens : l'étage pour enfants est incomplet : il manque d'un vrai espace confortable pour enfants en bas âge et bébés, avec des jeux, jouets et livres. Je parle bien ici d'un espace vraiment dédié.

S S

(Translated) This guy literally told me: "don't be kidding me" He wouldn't give me his name and badge number. He warned his supervisor who had to educate him on his obligation to provide me with his personal information. He was rude and haughty to me. I hope you can teach him ways of respect and cordiality with the users of the Banq. cordially (Original) Cet individu m'a littéralement dit :" ne te fous pas de ma gueule " Il n'a pas voulu me donner son nom et son numéro de badge. Il a averti son superviseur qui a dû l'éduquer sur son obligation de me fournir ses informations personnelles. Il a été impoli et hautain envers moi. J'espère que vous pourrez lui enseigner des manières de respect et de cordialité avec les usagers de la Banq. Cordialement

ulises santamaria

(Translated) The library is a space where you can move around freely and surround yourself, in addition to books, with the good disposition of the people who pass by. You can go to work at the communal tables with excellent natural light. There is a place where you can listen to vinyl with a very good music selection. If you are a foreigner, whether you are visiting for a few days or for a longer stay, just show your passport to access a pass, either per day or for a specific period. This pass does not allow you to take books or materials, but to access documents that require a membership to be viewed. (Original) La bibliothèque est un espace où vous pouvez vous déplacer librement et vous entourer, en plus des livres, de la bonne disposition des gens qui y passent. Vous pouvez aller travailler aux tables communes avec un excellent éclairage naturel. Il y a un endroit où vous pouvez écouter du vinyle avec une très bonne sélection musicale. Si vous êtes un étranger, que vous soyez en visite pour quelques jours ou pour un séjour plus long, il suffit de montrer votre passeport pour accéder à un pass, soit par jour, soit pour une période déterminée. Ce laissez-passer ne vous permet pas de prendre des livres ou du matériel, mais d'accéder à des documents qui nécessitent une adhésion pour être consultés.

Smiae

Amazing selection of books, movies, video games, and journals. There's a good amount of materials that you would normally require a university library for. I also recommend signing out a travel guide from the library before travelling instead of buying your own.

Martin Voisard

Good place

Alan Fregtman

It is Grande indeed! Such a beautiful, calm space to explore books and media. Being that it is a library books are to be expected, but I'm continually amazed by the incredible selection of non-book items like films, documentaries, series, cartoons, comics of all kinds and even video games... Hell, there is even board games for kids in the kids floor. How cool is that?! The staff are also very helpful. I love this place and everyone of all ages deserves to visit and make the most of it. ????

cain Kuri

This place is huge. There is so many things to do to read to watch.

Bright Command

Very nice place I love that.

Anting Chang

They have almost every book that i look for

iMADGAMES

(Translated) it's a good place I advise you to see it (Original) c'est un bon endroit je vous conseil à le voir

Osama Baig

This library is very well organized! I just wish they had a semi silent area for those that want to "Work from home" or be able to participate in work calls. Also monitors that can be plugged into laptops would be another great addition. Other than this the architecture was simply stunning. I really enjoyed the art museum on the top floor!

kunal rakshit

Great ambience for studying. They also provide you with iPad and laptops if you want to use them inside the library.

Marion

(Translated) She is very big this library! There are many choices in books, games, music, etc. The staff on site are really super nice and helpful. I like to go there just to hang out. The wifi service is very efficient too. I find it hard to realize that it's really free. The only negative points is that if you are late in your return there is nothing to warn you (whereas I seem to have asked for an alert for that) and sometimes it is difficult to find a book available ... I searched for 1 hour with a lady in the library and in the end we never found what was looking for and I find it a shame. (Original) Elle est très grande cette bibliothèque ! Il y a beaucoup de choix que ce soit en livres, jeux, musique etc. Le personnel sur place est vraiment super gentils et serviables. J'aime bien y aller juste pour flâner. Le service wifi est très efficace aussi. J'ai du mal à réaliser que c'est vraiment gratuit. Les seusl "points négatifs" c'est que si vous avez du retard dans vos retours il n'y a rien qui vous préviens (alors qu'il me semble avoir demandé une alerte pour ça) et que des fois c'est difficiles de trouver un livres disponibles... j'ai cherché pendant 1h avec une dame de la bibliothèque et au final on a jamais trouvé ce qu'n cherchait et je trouve ça un peu dommage.

Vincent Bélanger

(Translated) Nice place to come to work quietly or search for documentation. It's easy to navigate and the employees are very helpful. I am not so much a fan of terminals to pay late fees: they often seem buggy. (Original) Bel endroit pour venir travailler tranquille ou chercher de la documentation. Il est facile de s'y retrouver et les employés sont d'une très grande aide. Je ne suis pas tellement un fan des bornes pour payer les frais de retard: elles me semblent souvent buggé.

Francois-Xavier

Great place to study! Free membership for resident of the Montreal Island. Free Wifi, Free outlets, print or photocopy (0,15$ per pages). It is also possible to use one of the many workstation available. Also possible to use the meeting rooms for free for your study groups (up to 12 seats), just need to reserve the room.

Hossein Zamani

The best library ever!

Le Bagn ard

(Translated) Between the kids screaming, the guards chatting to each other and those talking as if they were at the bar it's almost impossible to concentrate on reading / studying. And it would be good to optimize the space for more reading rooms, we have to go around the library before finding a place sometimes. In short, the 3 stars go to the setting, which is still beautiful and easy to access, and its free. (Original) Entre les enfants qui crient, les gardes qui discutent entre eux et ceux qui parlent comme s'ils étaient au bar c'est presque impossible de se concentrer pour lire/ étudier. Et ça serait bien d'optimiser l'espace pour plus de salles de lecture, on doit faire le tour de la biblio avant de trouver une place des fois. Bref les 3 étoiles reviennent au cadre qui est quand même beau et facile d’accès, et a sa gratuite.

Mahmoud El-Nouri

Just perfect!

Akiko Minako

much big. so book

Mei Ozeki

(Translated) C'est une biblio où j'aime bien parce qu'il y a des DVDs du Studio Ghibli. It is a fun library with a stairwell and glass walls that look good and have books. Locals go there, so even tourists should stop by. It's especially convenient in winter because you can enter the library without going out of the metro. Ghibli's works (French) are also available, so it's a paradise for those who learn languages. (Original) C'est une biblio où j'aime bien parce qu'il y a des DVDs du Studio Ghibli. 吹き抜け&ガラス張りで見栄えも良く、書籍もそろっていて楽しい図書館です。地元の人が通っているので、観光者でも一度は寄ってほしい。メトロから外に出ないで図書館に入れるので、冬は特に便利。 ジブリの作品（フランス語）も揃っていて、語学を学ぶ者としては天国ですね〜

Guy Constantineau

(Translated) For the love of reading A magnificent place for reading and research. This place deserves to be entered. A visit is essential. The employees are friendly and very efficient. Take a moment to read either a book or a newspaper, do some genealogical research or learn about the history of our country. It is a peaceful and restful place. (Original) Pour l'amour de la lecture Un lieu de lecture et de recherche magnifique. Ce lieu mérite qu'on y entre. Une visite s'impose. Les employés sont aimables et très efficaces. Prendre un moment pour lire soit un livre ou un journal, faire une recherche généalogique ou apprendre l'histoire de notre pays. C'est un lieu paisible et reposant.

S V

(Translated) Beautiful area. Good customer service. Lots of book choices. If they don't have it, they will order it for you. Excellent. On the other hand, the only thing I noticed is certain staff who do not speak French well. Also, the guards ... I don't know why, but they always seem to be angry for no reason ... bizzard. There was even one who followed me to the men's restroom ... wow ... they really have nothing to do. It is a little distressing to see such a beautiful building but surrounded by "questionable" staff. But only some. Not all. In general, they are all kind and courteous. (Original) Très bel endroit. Bon service à la clientèle. Beaucoup de choix de livre. S'Il ne l'ont pas, il le commanderont pour vous. Excellent. Par contre, la seule chose que j'ai remarqué est certains staff qui ne parlent bien le francais. Aussi, les guardiens...je ne sais pas pourquoi, mais ils ont toujours l'air d'être fâchés sans raison...bizzard. Il y en a même un qui m'a suivi jusqu'a dans les toilettes pour hommes...wow...ils ont vraiment rien à faire. C'est un peu désolant de voir un aussi bel édifice mais entourés de staff " questionnable". Mais seulement certains. Pas tous. En général, ils sont tous gentils et courtois.

Simon Fernando

A beautiful building with a knowledgeable heart inside :) a great place to visit and granb a book, movie or listen to music

Steeven G (POPE)

There is archive here that just to read cost you a arm about the past of America. The outdoor is made of glass it is a amazing piece of architectural work. I could not went inside but I will be back and take picture for inside.

Bruno Taglietti

Spacious, calm, interesting.

Pat Laugh

Great place and very accessible! However, there are 3 elevators, mostly used by lazy people, in practically constant use, making constant noise in most of the library (they had the ingenuity of putting them in the centre of the library), making reading quietly impossible in most of the library, really defeating a main purpose of a library. Either listen to music or walk far away from the elevators. They have many chairs and desk available -- you can still hear the noise, but it's less loud. The constant noise of the elevators is really a turn off for me, though. Why are people so lazy?? And why do they need THREE elevators, one somewhere discrete would've been well enough! And the door rings twice each time it opens, for even more noise! Because of this, I don't go study at this library, except when other, more quiet libraries are closed (like during the summer). Grande Bibliothèque maintains its long hours throughout the year. But, it is closed on Mondays (why??). Another annoyance: they make a global announcement about the children's place closing (why not just make the announcement there instead of throughout the whole library?). Also, on their online database, if it says a book is available, don't count on that, especially if it's a popular book! Books that not at their location (lost) are marked as available! So don't go expecting your book will be there! Incredible architecture, and beautiful place, but with serious fundamental flaws.

Emil West

Beautiful library. My toddler enjoys spending time in the kids' section.

Jonathan Bernatchez

(Translated) Very nice place, totally free and endless choice (Original) Très bel endroit , totalement gratuit et choix infini

Maxime P. Hébert

As long as you are a Quebecker's resident , you can get a free Library pass to rent books ! The most complete library you will evet get !!

Austin Graff

This is a library close to the university. It's often open late and HUGE! There are plenty of spaces to read, study, or even connect (quietly) with a friend. The design itself is beautiful with many levels and opportunities for the natural light to shine through.

MyzMyz1995

Very cool place, lots of space, lots of material for reading, staff is also very nice.

Derek Mahar

Happy that this library is fully open again to the public and that it is not very crowded.

michel durand

(Translated) It is magic. There are even vinyl records to take away. 1 square kilometer of happiness (Original) C'est magique. Ya même des disques vinyles à emporter. 1 kilomètre carré de bonheur

Indrakant Sharma

Huge collection of books. Must visit.

iris geng

love this library! it has everything you need, even a café

Matthew Forsythe

My favourite place in Montreal.

Elvis A. Atanga

With its important collection of books, I enjoy reading books overthere

Connie Dominguez

This library continues to offer outstanding service...even during these difficult times. I was happy to find it open and well-controlled.

Jacob Harris

Decent library, catalogue systems are a bit confusing. Friendly service and good location and building. Recommend

Helen Lam (Helen Lam)

Lovely :)

Tania C

I absolutely love this library, it’s my favourite place to study and relax by reading a book. It’s so cozy, great selection of books in any language you want !!!

Henry Yu

I love this library, fast wifi, lots of archives, good books to borrow or read and many floors and desks for studying. Absolutely well kept and great resource for all Montreal denizens.

NFOYOO International

(Translated) Simple and fast registration, receipt of a nice letter of confirmation of subscription to free online services, they even have an online learning service "learn everything", an application. (Original) Inscription simple et rapide, réception d'une belle lettre de confirmation d'abonnement aux services en ligne gratuit, ils ont même un service de formation en ligne "toutapprendre", une application.

Karthik Rao

I loved the virtual reality show here. It was in French and I couldn't understand but just the experience with the VR device was good. The library has a huge selection of books.

Geta Hailu (ጌታ)

Fantastic library

Gabriel Mainville

(Translated) I like to go to the large library to recharge my batteries but to ask for the vaccination passport for lectures in the auditorium I find it abusive. (Original) J'aime aller me ressourcer à la grande bibliothèque mais demander le passeport vaccinal pour des conférences à l'auditorium je trouve que c'est abusif.

Eric Chan

(Translated) The large modern national library with its glass facades is particularly well equipped to allow everyone to read, work or study in comfort. With plenty of seating and work tables available either along the windows or next to the books. In addition to finding books in French, many collections of other languages are also available, as well as multimedia and retro content including vinyl records. (Original) La grande bibliothèque nationale moderne avec ses façades vitrées est particulièrement bien aménagée pour permettre à tous d’y lire, travailler ou étudier confortablement. Avec de nombreux sièges et tables de travail disponibles soit le long des fenêtres ou à côté des livres. En plus d’y retrouver des livres en français, de nombreuses collections d’autres langues sont aussi disponibles, ainsi que du contenu multimédia et rétro dont les disques vinyles.

Cari Mason

Beautiful space that accommodates loads of people using it for all the right reasons. Just lovely.

Atik Blues

The best

Areku

(Translated) I rarely leave negative notes and I think my situation is unique. I said that I am a regular at BANQ, I find myself well (rating) and normally, the employees are very nice despite the crowd of people. I went to the library as part of an academic research, I look in the catalog of the BANQ, I find some titles, but not much because my subject is quite specific. Two of the books are in the National Collection on the 2nd. So I'm going there, it's a bit remote section of the BANQ. First experience in this space, no welcome, nothing. In short, I manage to open the locker and drop my personal things. I begin to browse the different floors in search of the book and out of curiosity. Then, gradually, I get closer to my section, but I start to be a little discouraged. I come to an office where a librarian is. I received a haughty and very unpleasant service !! She tells me that the book I am looking for is in the section behind her. I go there uncomfortable because of his attitude. I do not find it (it must be known that it is a book of the Government of Quebec, very thin and well hidden). She gives me a: Did you find what you are looking for? Me: No ... I'm not very comfortable with the place (National Collection). Give me your paper (she almost takes it from my hands!). She changes row and then starts searching. He was really well hidden. She gives me other documents that indicate that these are previous years. After the return of the documents (because it is consultation on site), a man occupied his place, he was much more friendly and courteous. I was very disappointed with this unfriendly, dynamic service. Otherwise, the place was very busy, very quiet and quiet. We must organize ourselves in advance to be able to work on the spot, because the belongings are left under keys. (Original) Je laisse rarement des notes négatives et je pense que ma situation est un cas unique. Je précise que je suis une habituée du BANQ, je m'y repère bien (cote) et normalement, les employés sont très gentils malgré la foule de monde. Je me suis présentée à la bibliothèque dans le cadre d'une recherche universitaire, je regarde dans le catalogue de la BANQ, je trouve quelques titres, mais pas grand-chose car mon sujet est assez spécifique. Deux des livres se trouve dans la Collection nationale au 2e. Je vais donc sur place, c'est une section un peu reculée du BANQ. Première expérience dans cet espace, pas d'accueil, rien. Bref, je me débrouille pour ouvrir le casier et y déposer mes choses personnelles. Je commence à parcourir les différents étages à la recherche du livre et par curiosité. Puis, graduellement, je me rapproche de ma section, mais je commence à être un peu découragée. Je me présente donc à un bureau où une bibliothécaire s'y trouve. J'ai reçu un service hautain et fort désagréable!! Elle me dit que le livre que je cherche se trouve dans la section derrière elle. Je m'y dirige mal à l'aise de par son attitude. Je ne le trouve pas (il faut savoir que c'est une livre du gouvernement du Québec, très mince et bien caché). Elle me lance un: Avez-vous trouvé ce que vous cherchez? Moi: Non... je ne suis pas très à l'aise avec l'endroit (Collection nationale). Donnez-moi votre papier (elle me l'enlève presque des mains!). Elle change de rangée puis commence à chercher. Il était vraiment bien caché. Elle me donne d'autres documents précisant que ce sont des années antérieures. Après pour le retour des documents (car c'est consultation sur place), un homme occupait sa place, il était beaucoup plus sympathique et courtois. J'ai été très déçue de ce service peu courtois, dynamique. Sinon, l'endroit était très peu occupé, très calme et silencieux. Il faut s'organiser d'avance pour pouvoir travailler sur place, car les effets personnels sont laissés sous clés.

Jeff Jeffcoat

Good selection Staff is able and helpful

Eran Goldstein

Amazing library, so many comic books video games, Novells movies board games, and actually EVERYTHING!

Rami

Great environment, really relaxing, and overall a fantastic place to hang around in.

Samuel Croteau

(Translated) One of my favorite places in Montreal. The Great Library is a success all the way. I particularly appreciate the tranquility of the National Collection and the Alley of Booksellers during the summer. (Original) Un de mes endroits préférés à Montréal. La Grande bibliothèque est une réussite sur toute la ligne. J'apprécie particulièrement la tranquillité de la Collection nationale ainsi que l'Allée des bouquinistes durant l'été.

Animesh Ghose

I wish to have a living place inside this place!Such an amazing place with a hugeeee amount of collections! This place offers outstanding environment to study or work on your laptop or you can use the computer of the library. It is easy to get the book and read them there or you can borrow them for 21 days. The staffs are so friendly and efficient. Grab your coffee and go there for a day long experience!!

Leslie Proulx

Such a good place to get so many books that aren't readily available at other libraries. Helpful and courteous staff who knowledgeable and friendly, week maintained inventory and ease of access all help make this library a Montreal gem!

Sony Mathew

Must visit place in Montreal. Vast books of different genres and digital library too. You can peacefully read and refer books and journals. Entrance comes up with a information counter and service desk.

Tyler Crawley

Best library in the city. It's super easy to sign up and a LARGE selection of books. You can also find movies, music, computers and many study spots tucked away. Beautiful interior and very welcoming. The graphic novel section is particularly good.

Jacques Lemieux

huge place for study. However it lacks English books.

Marc Letourneau

(Translated) Large library pleasant to visit. The place is clean is the courteous staff. There is a wide choice of conference. Our 5 year old daughter loves to visit the children's section in the basement. Several shows or creative activities for her. (Original) Grande bibliothèque agréable à visiter. L'endroit est propre est le personnel courtois. Il y un vaste choix de conférence. Notre petite fille de 5 ans adore visiter la section des enfants au sous-sol. Plusieurs spectacles ou activités de création pour elle.

Benoît D

(Translated) The place is really nice to work quietly and the spaces are very well laid out for people coming with their Laptop! For students your card is made in 5 minutes, you need a proof of residence and your student card. By cons I have not seen space to eat. I think it would be a plus for people wanting to stay there all day. (Original) L'endroit est vraiment agréable pour travailler au calme et les espaces sont très bien aménagés pour les gens venant avec leur Laptop ! Pour les étudiants votre carte est faite en 5minutes, il vous faut un justificatif de domicile et votre carte étudiant. Par contre je n'ai pas vu d'espace pour pouvoir manger. Je pense que ça serait un plus pour les personnes voulant y rester toute la journée.

Sam Totah (montrealsam)

Excellent! Huge place. Friendly personnel! A great many subjects. You need several visits to get to know. Some sectors full of students. Public stay on the ground floor. Children section is paradise. Music and video section for the connaisseur. The only missing point there is no personnel to help you if your computer fails. You are on your own. Limited print section. Besides books there are activities such as lectures. First come or reservation. Strongly suggest you visit to feel at home! February 2020 still 1 of the best spots in Montreal! Visit & re-visit at your leisure!

copper lapislazuli

(Translated) Best place to rent books and search for information on specific topics. In addition, the cost to become a member is super affordable for access to all the services that the BANQ can offer. The building is clean and extremely modern which is a big plus. (Original) Meilleur endroit pour louer des livres et chercher de l’information sur des sujets précis. En plus, le coût pour devenir membre est super abordable pour l’accès à tous les services que la BANQ peut offrir. Le bâtiment est propre et extrêmement moderne ce qu’est un grand plus.

令狐冲

pretty good library, resources are huge, and facilities are good.but the language is restricted, announcement is French, infos board js French, thx that reception staffs could speak English.

alissa osumi

Best place to study or work. It could be busy sometimes. There’s a huge selection of books and movies.

Geneviève Verschueren

(Translated) Since the beginning of the pandemic, their in-person services have been closed until further notice, however if you have problems with access to some of their online services, they are very responsive. I received a quick response (less than 24 hours) and an immediate resolution of my problem. They are wonderful! Thanks to the person who replied to my email. I can continue to use Hoopla for my comic book desires! (Original) Depuis le début de la pandémie, leurs services en personne sont fermés jusqu'à nouvel ordre, par contre si vous avez des soucis avec l'accès à certains de leurs services en ligne ils sont très réactifs. J'ai reçu une réponse rapide (moins de 24h) et une résolution immédiate de mon problème. Ils sont merveilleux! Merci à la personne qui a répondu à mon courriel. Je peux continuer d'utiliser Hoopla pour mes envies de BD!

Marie-Michèle Leclerc

(Translated) Imposing collection of books. It is varied and quality books. The staff are welcoming and courteous. There are only a few sections of personal and team work. Sometimes noisy depending on the location chosen. (Original) Collection imposante de livres. C'est varié et des livres de qualité. Le personnel est accuneillant et courtois. Il y a seulement quelques sections de travail personnel et d'équipe. Parfois bruyant selon le lieu choisi.

Yung Chi Hsiao

Good look

Joel Miller

This is a very good public library with excellent policies designed to seriously involve the public. It is easy to navigate and there are many comfortable spaces work spaces. It is as good as most medium sized university libraries but falls short in some ways, particularly as much of its scope doesn't reach beyond Quebec. I can forgive them for the major holes in U.S. Canadian historic documents and in English literature to some extent but unfortunately the ethnocentric ethos extends to the sciences as I was doing research on North American geology and found very little south of the border that was useful and not much material for the rest of Canada.

Edward Kasimir

Love this place. All the things!

Jo

I love this library. Lots of options for many things, even for video games, and the staff is very nice. It's a huge blessing this is a free service. And when you leave on vacation you can let them know and borrow things for much longer than usual. So handy.

Frédérick B.

(Translated) Opened in late April / early May 2005 in the Quartier Latin / Quartier des Spectacles, the Grande Bibliothèque is now a cultural reference in Montreal. Many cultural events / exhibitions take place there. More than four million documents / books / newspapers / journals / maps / films can be borrowed or consulted. Free registration with proof for all Quebec residents. For the last 10 years, it has welcomed more than 27 million visitors, it is the busiest of the Francophonie and some of the world. Well-appointed spaces, pleasant for reading, connected to the Montreal metro station bixi at the door and free wifi. Happy reading & a great discovery to Montrealers! 5/5 visited since its opening in 2005. (Original) Ouverte fin avril/début mai 2005 dans le Quartier Latin/Quartier des spectacles, la Grande Bibliothèque est maintenant une référence culturelle à Montréal. Nombreux rendez-vous culturels/expositions y ont lieu. On peut emprunter ou y consulter plus de quatre millions de documents / livres / journaux / revues / cartes / films....Inscription gratuite avec preuves pour tous les résidents du Québec. Depuis maintenant 10 ans, elle a accueillie plus de 27 millions de visiteurs, elle est la plus fréquentée de la Francophonie et l'unes du monde. Espaces bien aménagés, agréable pour la lecture, connecté au métro de Montréal, station bixi à la porte et wifi gratuit. Bonne lecture & belle découverte aux Montréalais! 5/5 visité depuis son ouverture en 2005.

Jennifer C

If this is the same BanQ where one can order archival records from the 1800s, your representative, Chloe R., is incredibly helpful, pleasant, and efficient. I live in Florida, and she has helped me a couple times so far. Thank you so very much!

Raehyun Han

I have really loved this library. I used to go there every weekend with my kids. But I was bitten 7 shots on my arms and legs by bed bugs yesterday while I was reading books. I think library should be closed for a while, or just don't go there. If you must go there, please don't sit on chairs. You will surely know what I am saying.

Angela Dámaso

(Translated) For lovers of books, magazines, videos, audios, those who do not want to stay at home, those who want to experiment in the science room, etc. As a Latina I have never seen a more beautiful, organized, large library with so many things to offer. They can lend you many books at the same time (I have taken a maximum of 7), also movies, and you find many things in foreign languages, here no language is unknown or foreign, children love this place, if they are just arriving in this beautiful city can not miss a visit to this place. Few times I was late in returning a book or CD and the fines are super small, there is no problem with that, the staff are willing to help you in everything, if you want to study or concentrate there is enough room for that! I recommend the 3rd floor! Children are no longer heard in this environment, the great library is without a doubt my favorite place. (Original) Para los amantes de los libros, revistas, videos, audios, los que no se quieren quedar en casa, los que quieren experimentar en la sala de ciencias, etc. Como latina nunca he visto biblioteca mas bonita, organizada, grande y con tantas cosas para ofrecer. Te pueden prestar muchos libros al mismo tiempo (yo he sacado máximo 7), también películas, y encuentras muchas cosas en idiomas extranjeros, aquí ninguna lengua es desconocida o ajena, a los niños les encanta este lugar, si recién están llegando a esta hermosa ciudad no se pueden perder una visita a este lugar. Pocas veces me atrasé en devolver un libro o cd y las multas son super pequeñas, no hay problema con eso, el personal bien dispuesto a ayudarte en todo, si quieres estudiar o concentrarte hay bastante lugar para eso! Les recomiendo el 3er piso! Ya no se escucha a los niños en este ambiente, la gran biblioteca es sin dudami lugar favorito.

michel brillon

(Translated) In the midst of the pandemic, you can register at the large on-site library on the ground floor with identity documents, reserve books on the website and pick them up on the ground floor; there is an outside book return box open 24/7; one cannot move on the floors; I didn't see a lot of wait, 5 minutes a few times and it didn't happen often. You can also book audiovisual documents and comics. (Original) En pleine pandémie, on peut s'inscrire à la grande bibliothèque sur place au rez-de-chaussée avec des pièces d'identité, réserver des livres sur le site web et venir les chercher au rez-de-chaussée; il y a une boîte de retour des livres à l'extérieur ouvert 24h/7; on ne peut circuler sur les étages; je n'ai pas vu beaucoup d'attente, 5 minutes quelques fois et cela n'est pas arrivé souvent. On peut aussi réserver des documents audiovisuels et des bandes dessinées.

Cary Ann

This is very good.

Hans Villarpando

Is the best library in Montreal, all kind of books for every age, movies, music, games, etc

Alexander Peplowski

An amazing resource for Montrealers. Lends out physical and digital copies of both English and French books, guides, textbooks, comic books, video games, movies, journals, magazines. Also has desktop computers stations for personal use, study spaces, conference rooms and printing services.

N. G.

Has everything I am looking for

Live Now

Full of dvd, game packs, board games, comfortable chairs, comic books and BOOKS. Amazing library!

Maey

This is a massive sprawling library with options in french, english, and to a lesser extent, other languages such as german and spanish. The staff are kind and patient. They don't speak much english (this is a french part of town, after all, with its closeness to UQAM) I have spent hours perusing the isles and reading. Its a marvel. Its what all libraries should be. And their top floor!!! Filled with movies, CD's, video games. THEY EVEN HAVE RECORDS!!!! And record players. They have music production studios you can RENT OUT! The bottom floor is the childrens area, filled with color and life. It's clean, with a beautiful modern design, without feeling cold or unwelcoming.

Trevor Kinkade

We loved the youth hockey exhibit last Summer. The older gentleman running the exhibit was fantastic - chatted with us for 15 minutes about his personal history with hockey in Montreal.

Beatriz Noé

(Translated) Very nice space to study! The staff is very courteous too! BUT the toilets do not look very clean and it's a shame for a nice book like this one (Original) Très bel espace pour étudier! Le personnel est très courtois aussi! MAIS les toilettes n'ont pas l'air très propre et c'est dommage pour une belle bibli comme celle-là

Shantal “Loupa” L'Esperance

Excellent

Paul Heisenberg

(Translated) Service to subscribers has become a priority now given that access to the works was prohibited before this same week ... (Original) Le service aux abonnes est devenu une priorite presentement étant donné que l'acces aux ouvrages etait interdit avant cette meme semaine...

daniel spoclair

(Translated) Huge library with remarkable architecture, I always start by contemplating its structure ... You can find absolutely everything there, even the weekly reviews ... Peaceful and respected place. I like to take every moment to get there ... Each time we find a surprising reading, and different from what we expected ... (Original) Immense bibliothèque à l’architecture remarquable, je commence toujours par contempler sa structure... On y trouve absolument tout, même les revues hebdomadaires... Lieu paisible et respecté. J’aime profiter du moindre moment pour m’y rendre ... On y trouve à chaque fois une lecture surprenante, et différente de celle à laquelle on s’attendait ...

Clelio Neto

Beautiful library. It's a great place to study and research. All it is missing is a place to get coffee.

Dwain Richardson

It is possible to borrow books and CDs in a wide array of subjects. DVDs may also be borrowed. Just disappointed that the library staff removed all seating areas, but I suspect this measure is temporary.

Fernanda Nicoli

This place is just amazing. Every book I can think of I can find in here. Great collection of art and architecture books. They also carry a lot HQs, CDs, DVDs.

Heather Cheung

Beautiful library!! All kinds of unique study places. Very clean with a cafe as well. I love the sculpture outside.

Lupa Duende

The children's section is replete with manga, to the delight of my boys. The staff are courteous, informed, and helpful. A good place to recharge with friendly books.

Fatima Ahmad

Amazing and fast help. Everyone is ready to help you. And it has so many sections and amazing books. Great spacing as Well! ????

H Vaillancourt

Nice place, the architecture is amazing! The staff is always helpful and, if you speak French, there is a huge variety of books. However, the place is always crowded, sometimes it looks like a shopping mall and not a library. And if you are looking for books written in English... sigh... you are not at the right place. There are a few books in English but only old ones and no major work. I tried to find novels written by contemporary authors, but to no avail. The clerk told me that the target clientele of this library is French reading persons, even if it is the biggest library in the province.

Julien Mancilla

Absolute gem, big, spacious and very quiet for a library this size. It has to offer all you need in terms of books, music, attractions and even devices like ipad’s and laptops if you would be in need of one.

Discovering Destinations

Where: BAnQ Grande Bibliothèque - Montreal, Quebec What: A huge central library How was it: We are lucky because this place is very close to home. It's so close that we'll go for long periods at a time without going or even forgetting it's there. One of the perks of living on the island - you don't need to pay for the membership. They have lots that you can check out online, even reading material, renew your almost due books with a simple click or even rent music or movies. It's huge, well decorated and clean. We'll even come to study here sometimes. Grade: Eli = 5, Serge = 4+ Recommend: Yes, if you're in the area and you like libraries. Best case scenario you can even get your membership !

Marieve Lacelle

Very clean and bright library with a lot of options from books, sc.research, ebooks and DVD/blue ray. Great coffee and service. However don’t take a nap in your study breaks, napping is not allowed even if you have been studying for long hours

Anna Dowdall

Book lovers' heaven. A jewel in the crown of Montreal. The kind of place a writer like me goes to when I need to refresh my faith in public institutions.

Tessa Blanc

This is where you go when you need to escape Life and wish to get lost in Thought and Imagination. Beautiful setting for a library (4 floors of books, music, and videos) and competent staff members. A perfect getaway on a rainy afternoon.

Nusrat Jahan Neetu

A wide variety of books. Stuffs are really helpful. Liked the reading arrangement too. Highly recommended.

Kathy Ho

There is plenty of space to sit!! You know how hard it is to find a spot to read in a library in Toronto and in universities and in coffee shops. Well at BANQ, this is not an issue. It is a fantastic library, I'm so glad it lives. You need to be a member to use WiFI and check out a book. If you live in Montreal, your membership is free. Their website explains what documents you need.

s izmi

(Translated) Very cool library. There are a lot of books related to art. It's about 70% French and 30% English. Japanese comics (although it is French) have a good volume. (Original) えっらいかっこいい図書館。 美術関連の書籍がそこそこ揃っています。仏語7割英語3割くらいかな。 日本の漫画（フランス語ですが）がなかなかいいボリュームで揃ってます。

Alex Lapointe

(Translated) Bravo for your sanitary measures and the offer of many elements online! What will adapt for years to come, I hope that the Grande Bibliothèque will remain standing despite the estrangement of people from books and the computerization of information. (Original) Bravo pour vos mesure sanitaires et l’offre de nombreux éléments en ligne! De quoi s’adapté pour les années à venir, j’espère que la Grande Bibliothèque restera debout malgré l’éloignement des gens du livre et l’informatisation de l’information.

Steven Rancourt

(Translated) An essential place to work or study in Montreal. Very large library on 4 floors with lots of volumes, places and sockets. WiFi requires a subscription (free), but it is excellent. From the ground floor to the 2nd floor, the tranquility is less favorable. I recommend the 3rd and 4th floor. Sometimes quite busy. At this time, if you go accompanied, it will be difficult to find places. Alone, there will always be a little corner for you. (Original) Un endroit incontournable pour travailler ou étudier à Montréal. Très grande bibliothèque sur 4 étages avec beaucoup de volumes, de places et de prises. Le WiFi nécessite un abonnement (gratuit), mais il est excellent. Du rez-de-chaussée au 2e étage, la tranquillité est moins propice. Je conseille le 3e et 4e étage. Parfois assez achalandé. À ce moment, si vous y allez accompagné, il sera difficile de trouver des places. Seul, il y aura toujours un petit coin pour vous.

Jason Behrmann

Impressive collection of literature and audio in many languages. I used to rent Electronica cds here almost every day. The problem with the place is that it is often crowded with less desirable people. It is difficult to find a good workspace.

Jason Lambert

Wonderful selection, staff and implementation of self-serve!

Leïla Dadda

(Translated) Great bibli a little too much AC for my taste but otherwise it was perfect! (Original) Super bibli un peu trop de AC a mon goût mais sinon c’était parfait!

Lieven M

Anyone who lives in the City should absolutely visit this amazing masterpiece!! The architecture of this location inside and outside is gorgeous! The library has thousands of books of course, CDs, DVDs, and wait .. video games?!?! Yes it does. The investment into this location can be compared to those at major universities in the US. Si vous habitez MTL ou de passage, n’hésitez pas de visiter la Grande Bibliothèque! There’s a kids and toddlers space as well. You can literally borrow up to 25 books for up to 3 weeks ... wait what?!?! Alors abonnez-vous à BAnQ and enjoy this amazing ride!

daniel lucia

I’ve been coming to this place for 3 years now to do homework, job applications even to create a to do list. It doesn’t even feel like I’m at a traditional library. However, you are downtown so it’s distracting for me to get things done and it does take some motivation.

Lassaad Mestiri

We’re so lucky to have such a facility in Montréal!

Ammaad Farooq

Best place for book lovers in Montreal. Excellent environment, huge selection and very helpful staff.

Tracy Teed

Used to come here 2 to 3 times a week...now the place is infested with bedbugs and fleas Hope things improve...

Daniel Gregoire

(Translated) Better than before ! Less homeless! Well lighted ! Lots of windows! Fairly clean! Very good services! Small flat ... the employees not very smile! Even cold customer service! Here is ! ???? (Original) Mieux qu'avant ! Moins de sans abrit ! Bien éclairé ! Beaucoup de fenêtres ! Assez propre ! Très bons services ! Petit bémol... les employés pas très sourient ! Même froid le services à la clientèles ! Voilà ! ????

Haussmann Alliyyi

Fantastic place, great selection and the staff is wonderful

Christine yo

(Translated) Abundant resources There is also a reading area for children. Video and music at the same time Very good (Original) 資源豐富 還有小朋友的閱讀區 同時提供影片跟音樂 非常的棒

Riad Assal

Wow book! So many books!!

Mario E. Soto

It's always a nice place to visit. If looking for something in particular, look online if it's available before making the trip.

Karolina Kamga

great choice of books and helpfull staff

Joseph Bonnani

Many of the documents are damaged (such as DVD's and Blu-Ray videos) yet they keep being available; that is a waste of time for users who go to the library and go through the entire process of loaning a video just to find out it cannot be viewed at home because it is damaged.

HEM COLLINS

(Translated) There is nothing to say negative about the range of choices offered by the Grande Bibliothèque, both in French and English, nor on its courteous staff that is always available to users. However, I consider it one of the worst places in Montreal to study. The free wifi is very slow. Impossible for me to study without a fast internet connection to do research. You can not take food, coffee, or any other drink except water (in a clear container only). I understand that it is a precaution not to damage the equipment. All the same, the way to apply this regulation is abusive. Every ten minutes an employee goes round to make sure of that. Personally, I have to eat and drink coffee to concentrate on my studies. In addition, several flights have been reported to this library. You can not go to the bathroom without taking your laptop and other belongings with you without risk. to get them stolen. (Original) Il n'y a rien à dire de négatif sur la gamme de choix que propose la Grande Bibliothèque, tant en français qu'en anglais, ni sur son personnel courtois qui se met toujours à la disposition des usagers. Toutefois, je considère que c'est un des pires endroits à Montréal pour y étudier. Le wifi gratuit est très lent. Impossible, pour moi d'étudier sans une connection internet rapide pour y faire de la recherche. On ne peut emporter de la nourriture, du café ou une quelconque boisson autre que de l'eau (dans un récipient transparent seulement). Je comprends qu'il s'agisse d'une précaution pour ne pas abimer le matériel. Tout de même, la façon d'appliquer ce règlement est abusif. À toutes les dix minutes un employé fait sa ronde pour s'assurer de cela. Personnellement, il faut que je m'alimente et boive du café pour me concentrer sur mes études. De plus, plusieurs vols ont été rapportés à cette bibliothèque.On ne peut aller aux toilettes sans emporter avec soi son laptop et autres effets personnels sans risquer de se les faire voler.

Gabrielle Chamberland

This library is amazing. I know this isn't a very constructive comment, but visit it, you'll love it!

Moulay Driss

(Translated) Well organized many books from all fields (Original) Bien organisé beaucoup de livres de tout lea domaines

Nawel Iwelo

(Translated) Everything you would expect from an excellent library: a very large collection, always up to date, welcoming staff, comfortable premises, various documents (books, video games, films, etc.) ... and all for free! The children's area is also particularly well done. In short, a must-see for Montrealers and visitors looking for a break. (Original) Tout ce qu'on attend d'une excellente bibliothèque : très large collection toujours mise à jour, personnel accueillant, locaux confortables, documents variés (livres, jeux-vidéo, films, etc.)... et le tout gratuitement ! L'espace enfant est aussi particulièrement bien fait. Bref, un lieu incontournable pour les montréalais comme les visiteurs en quête d'un répit.

Maurice Dubé

(Translated) It's practical for me, I like to make Facebook or puff a ???? its relaxes me, in any case I like to come here bye bye bye matachi (Original) C'est pratique pour moi, je me plais en faire du Facebook ou feuilletée un ???? sa me relaxe,en tout cas j'aime venir ici bye au revoir matachi

Rony Islam

huge place for study. However it lacks English books. It'd be great if they could have more English books available.

Sandy Nguyen

Absolutely gorgeous building! A very modern library if we talk about its architecture. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow natural sunlight to come through which add a homey vibe to it. However, I don't suggest you to study there since all floors are open and sounds resonate a lot (we can hear noise from the 1st floor all the way to the fourth floor) which can be distracting for people that needs silence. Nonetheless, great library!

Chiara Vallone

The best library. Great staff and amazing service

Jamal Abdallah

Great library! It literally has everything you can ask for

Richard Dinel

Vous n'avez par terminé un livre ? Et la période de renouvellement est expiré, vous pouvez toujours vous présentez et aller au comptoir spécial à cet effet . naturellement, si quelqu'un a réservé le livre, ce ne sera 0as possible. Mais vérifier vous-même si au moins une copie est disponible. Dans ce cas vous devrez être en mesure de redémarrer une nouvelle location.

Alec K

(Translated) I have just discovered my new place of study # 1. The floors are more dedicated to study and / or reading. The ground floor is noisy given the entrances and exits. The staff are respectful and answer questions with pleasure. Moreover, the amount of work scattered across the establishment is quite impressive. (Original) Je viens de découvrir mon nouveau lieu d'étude #1. Les étages sont dédiés davantage à l'étude et/où la lecture. Le rez-de-chaussée est bruyant étant donné les entrées et les sorties. Le personnel est respectueux et répond aux questions avec plaisir. D'ailleurs, la quantité d'ouvrage dispersée à travers l'établissement est assez impressionnante.

Kara Thrace

One of the biggest libraries I've ever seen. High ceilings and hard-wood floors, this is a work of art. They have all sorts of different sections, including one on Japanese books. I spent a few hours going up and down the shelves and looking at art. Those massive windows give this place a clean, calm feel. Definitely will be stopping back when I'm in town again.

Geof

(Translated) I love the big library (Original) J adore la grande bibliothèque

Ekaterina E

(Translated) La René de bibliothèque. Good service, a card is issued for two years, no buy is needed. It is convenient to independently take books in the machine, swiping the reader. There are Russian racks next to Vietnamese. They seemed not intelligible, there are books by Dontsova.???? (Original) La René de bibliothèque. Хороший сервис, карточку выдают на два года, бай не нужен. Удобно самостоятельно брать книги в автомате, проводя по считывателю. Есть русские стелажи рядом с вьетнамскими. Показались не внятными, есть книжки Донцовой.????

Moon Ky

(Translated) Library spacious and pleasant. Two remarks however: some table lamps have not been changed for months. Lack of surveillance in the evening before closing on noise and people sleeping. (Original) Bibliothèque spacieuse et agréable. Deux remarques cependant : certaines ampoules de table n’ont pas été changées depuis des mois. Manque de surveillance le soir avant la fermeture concernant le bruit et les gens qui dorment.

Marcus loko

Excellent Library to find all the books you need and/or to study in a calm place.

International Sy

(Translated) The library is super well organized, the barrier measures are top notch and the attendant who gave me information has fun doing his job. I highly recommend it, since I had no difficulty finding the books I was looking for and the place is Zen. (Original) La bibliothèque est super bien organisée, les mesures barrières sont au top et le préposé qui m'a renseigné a du fun à faire sa job. Je la recommande vivement, puisque je n'ai eu aucune difficulté à trouver les livres que je cherchais et de plus l'endroit est zen.

François Demers

(Translated) The building is magnificent. It enhances the sector. Large selection of books and equipment. Courteous staff. (Original) La bâtisse est magnifique. Ça rehausse le secteur. Grand choix de livres et d équipements. Personnel courtois.????

Vile Meme

An excellent resource for research, with plenty of books, physical or numerical, magazines, newspapers and audiovisual content. There are some desks available for work and relatively comfortable seats for reading. You can also work in private rooms, which is useful for team projects. The library has plenty of computers available for use. However, my main annoyance with the library is the noise. The library tends to get crowded and the staff struggle to apply the rules. There are plenty of rude people who don't seem really concerned about silence which sometimes makes work or reading a pain in the ass. You also have the occasional homeless person sleeping in a chair. My suggestion? Borrow the things you need and work/read somewhere else.

Alain Dionne

Great Library. Good collection. Excellent staff

azita malek

great selection of books and DVDs

Bernard Proulx

(Translated) Living place, well lit. Very large selection of books, videos, music and other things. Good coffee on site. Easy access. Plenty of armchair seating for reading. Very nice place for all Montrealers as well as visitors. Do not miss. Free Wi-Fi for subscribers. (Original) Endroit vivant, bien éclairé. Très grande sélection de livres, vidéos, musiques et autres choses. Bon café sur place. Facile d'accès. Beaucoup de places assises en fauteuil pour lire. Très bel endroit pour tous les montréalais ainsi que les visiteurs. À ne pas manquer. Wi-Fi gratuit pour les abonnés.

Amine CM

(Translated) Excellent library, wide choice, very good service. In addition, they seem to be listening to customers: installation of places to eat. Only negative point: bed bugs ... (Original) Excellente bibliothèque, vaste choix, très bon service. De plus, ils semblent être à l'écoute de la clientèle : installation d'endroits pour manger. Seul point négatif : les punaises de lits...

Aviram Porat

A jewel and a pleasure

Julius Grippo

Quiet

Yanni Li

One of my favorite spots in Montreal

William Tang

Very good services with the excellent library clerks.

Clement Lai

It is a good library

Roger Fournier

(Translated) I ♥ ️ MY large library. Thanks again to everyone who made this project. (Original) J'♥️ MA grande bibliothèque. Merci encore à tous ceux qui ont réalisé ce projet.

John Holmes

nice collection, but mercenary approach to collecting 'overdue' fines, as many ( mostly donated?) films inexplicably seem to be 'reserved' upon attempting online renewal, with big fines ..they brazenly block last minute online renewals by removing the 'mon dossier' option from the page....they are greedy for fine revenue, & you have to ask them after to remove unfair fines...many smug, bureaucratic employees. Warning: It is best not to visit the bathrooms ( especially those outside the ground floor 'sensor' area) as the guards will follow patrons ( men OR women) inside, and wait directly outside the stall while the patron performs their 'business'....this is 'normal' guard behavior, according to a library receptionist. It seems voyeuristic, if not a breach of privacy, to me.

Justin J.R.

Best library in town to study or just explore, friendly staff, and yay for the fact that it's air-conditioned during the summer and feels warm during the winter. Just confused about the reviews about the lack of English books...you're either not looking enough or you're just entitled lol. Would you expect a Francophone to go to Edmonton, Fredericton or Vancouver and complain about the lack of French books in the library? Would you go to Germany and complain about why public libraries have more books in German than in English? Make it make sense

Hank Voight

(Translated) Your digital loan is full of bugs, it rarely works. It's frustrating (Original) Votre prêt numérique est pleins de bugs, ça fonctionne rarement. C'est frustrant

Lotte Opgenhaffen

(Translated) Sunday 10/6/2018 asked for info because we were going to check in online for our flight. Received a ticket and opened an account because it was valid for two days and we could therefore still use it on Monday 11/6. However, upon our arrival on Monday 11/6, the library turned out to be closed. I would like to thank them for their correct information and the usefulness of our money ... Not so ... (Original) Zondag 10/6/2018 info gaan vragen omdat we online gingen inchecken voor onze vlucht. Uitkeg gekregen en een account geopend omdat deze twee dagen geldig was en we maandag 11/6 deze dus ook nog konden gebruiken. Echter bij ons aankomst maandag 11/6 bleek de bibliotheek gesloten te zijn. Bij deze wou ik hen bedanken voor hun correcte informatie en de nuttigheid van ons geld ... Niet dus...

Vg G

Largest Public library in Quebec with a large collection of books, cds, movies, maps, and other pertinent documents . Registration is free for Quebec residents.

John O'Meara

Selection is good and hours are decent. English library is limited and being closed on Monday is a little annoying, but it's fine otherwise

Alain Saas

Heaven

Rachel Green

i love libraries, and this one has it all...usually. Covid has reduced it's cosy seating and café hours (actually, I'm not sure if the café is currently open), but you can borrow all the books, CDs and DVDs you've always eanted to read, hear and watch. the spaces have optimal natural light and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful. it'll be back to 5 stars when all the services are reinstated.

Paul Rebar

Great place to study and get work done! Clean, modern, with decent wifi and lots of seating and outlets. The catalogue is enormous in French and pretty good in English. It can get a little crowded but there are usually plenty of free seats before noon. The only downsides with this place are: 1) Closed on Mondays. Kind of inconvenient for students, freelancers and remote workers who want to give themselves a standard workweek in a reliable location. It's busy enough on the days it's open, after all. 2) There are a lot of drug addicts, homeless and mentally ill hanging around, which can get distracting and brings up questions of hygiene and theft. I’ve witnessed more than one violent, shouty outburst and just the other day I saw a crusty old guy with his shirt off doing self-grooming in one of the chairs. I’m not sure what the solution is, but I am sure a library should be peaceful and safe. 3) The centrally-located elevators are in constant use and ding loudly every time the doors open. I assume this is to help the visually impaired, but a quieter signal would probably work just as well. In many areas it's hard to concentrate without headphones.

Nadir Hadji

(Translated) This concentrating with the sound of an elevator every 5 seconds is very complicated. (Original) Ce concentrer avec un bruit d’ascenseur chaque 5 secondes est très compliquer..

Gab Lauzon

My favorite place in the world. They have basically everything you could want in terms of books, tons of videogames and lots of movies and series. It's easy to find a quiet spot you can spend the entire day in.

Ganonymous Last

Impressive. Free audio self guided tours. Impressive in that it has more resources than anything I've seen around Canada in a library. Montreal residents should be grateful to have it. Worth the stop to see what's there.

Lucy Wang

They have a great collection of titles and have many study areas ☺️ it’s my go-to public library!

Andrea Torok-Ducharme

Horrible. Awfully lot of people paid for nothing under the covid security. Very sad

Vincent Gosselin

(Translated) Great, selection comparable to a university library, with lectures, stations for watching films, etc. Courteous staff, beautiful architecture and everything. On the other hand, too many homeless people strolling around, who should be welcomed elsewhere and whom the governments of the last 20 years do not give a damn about. (Original) Génial, sélection comparable à une bibliothèque universitaire, avec conférences, postes pour visionner des films, etc. Personnel courtois, belle architecture et tout et tout. Par contre, trop d'itinérants du coin qui flânent, qui devraient être accueillis ailleurs et dont les gouvernements des 20 dernières années se foutent éperdument.

M S

Whatever you expect from a dreamy library. Best place to study or spend your spare time.

Taiohontatatie Delormier

I thing that is bad.

서우택

Greqt services. Most of books are there for you. It is a bit complicated to find out what you want due to large spaces.

Yoann Lussier

(Translated) Knowledge in this place is present in his books, his works and his recordings. In addition to the library, there is the archives section, which is a jewel of architecture as well as knowledge. If you have a specific question in genealogy, history, language or about Quebec and Canada, they have either an answer or a reference to offer you. (Original) Le savoir en cet endroit y est présent dans ses livres, ses oeuvres et ses enregistrements. Outre la bibliothèque, il y a la section des archives qui sont un bijou d'architecture autant que de connaissances. Si vous avez une question pointue en généalogie, en histoire, en langue ou au sujet du Québec et du Canada, ils ont soient une réponse ou une référence à vous proposer.

hyperneutrino

(Translated) Thank you for being here. Good quality books can be found that meet the very needs of researchers for any topic of news! well-appointed spaces and very courteous personal! (Original) Merci d'être là. On peut trouver des livres du bon qualité qui répond aux besoins même des chercheurs pour n'importe quel sujet d'actualités! espaces bien aménagés et personnels très courtois!

Alex

While it's called the grand library and it's supposed to have a lot of different spaces and facilities, there are very few spaces for studying or reading the books. There isn't enough new book titles, movies and music, they're at least a couple of years old. I thought it would be better than my university library in most of the aspects, but it's simply not.

Francis Salois

(Translated) I went there with my Secondary 3 students. The library itself is mind blowing. We would stay there all day! On the other hand, I deplore a lack of communication between the various services. In our case, there were two groups participating in two separate activities, and each activity ignored the participation of the other. In addition, I wanted to subscribe my students to the GB, which was done with great professionalism by the attendants, but they were not aware of our arrival that I had announced, which caused them a little stress ... I would give 6 stars to the Square if I could (the place reserved for at least 18 years old). My students loved it. One of them said when he came out of the Square: "I didn't know that a library could be fun! " (Original) J’y suis allé avec mes élèves de 3e secondaire. La bibliothèque elle-même est hallucinante. On y resterait toute la journée! Par contre, je déplore un manque de communication entre les divers services. Dans notre cas, il y avait deux groupes qui participaient à deux activités distinctes, et chaque activité ignorait la participation de l’autre. De plus, je voulais abonner mes élèves à la GB, ce qui a été fait avec beaucoup de professionnalisme par les préposés, mais ils n’étaient pas au courant de notre arrivée que j’avais annoncée, ce qui leur a occasionné un petit stress... Je donnerais 6 étoiles au Square si je pouvais (la place réservée au moins de 18 ans). Mes élèves ont adoré. Un éeux a dit en sortant du Square : « je ne savais pas qu’une bibliothèque ça pouvait être le fun! »

M CD

(Translated) The Great Library of Montreal In addition to the immensity of the chosen place and its ability to engulf us, and therefore lose any person attached to us (our team), the Great Library has proven to be a place filled with emotion where calm and thrills were in constant duality. Whether by traveling in the glass elevator for almost 20 consecutive minutes or more for some; Or observe the different basins of the population wander, or even be observed; Different themes emerged, notably the movement or the phenomenon of "reading non-reading". I would give 5 stars, but we were warned because not allowed to speak, the constraint of silence in 2020 unfortunately removes a star. 4 \ 5 (Original) La Grande bibliothèque de Montréal Outre l’immensité du lieu choisi et sa capacité à nous engloutir, et donc ainsi perdre toute personne rattacher à nous (soit notre équipe), la Grande bibliothèque s’est avérée être un endroit rempli d’émotion où le calme et les sensations fortes étaient en constante dualité. Que ce soit en voyageant dans l’ascenseur vitré pour près de 20 minutes consécutives voire plus pour certains; Ou observer les différents bassins de la population errer, ou même nous faire observer; Différentes thématiques en sont ressorties notamment le mouvement ou le phénomène de la ‘’lecture non-lecture ". Je donnerais bien 5 étoiles, mais nous nous sommes fait avertir car pas le droit de parler, la contrainte du silence en 2020 retire malheureusement une étoile. 4\5

James POPO

very clean. Nice place to study

Esther G

(Translated) An extraordinary space to study, research and discover. The staff is attentive and the library is very complete in both physical and digital documents. You can also book group study rooms. (Original) Un espace extraordinaire pour étudier, rechercher et découvrir. Le personnel est attentif et la bibliothèque est très complète autant en documents physiques que numériques. On peut aussi réserver des salles d'études de groupe.

herve dupuis

des employés betes comme leurs pieds je me demande comment ca se fait qu'ils demeurent a l'emploi du gouvernement ces gens la ?????

Stephanie Buffeteau

(Translated) Beautiful library ... But after more than an hour looking for a place to work, we gave up. No places available. Too many people or not enough workspace I do not know, but frustrating. (Original) Belle bibliothèque... Mais après plus d une heure à chercher une place pour travailler, nous avons abandonné. Aucune place disponible. Beaucoup trop de monde ou pas assez d espace de travail je ne sais pas, mais frustrant.

prs

Please Please, Please consider this comment. I really like this place, but I will take 2 stars off to get your attention guys..... who ever reads this comment PLEASE , PLEASE, PLEASE extend the hours. Saturdays, Sundays and please include Mondays too..... please please please. We need to study 7 days a week. Montreal is getting crowded, we need more on the hours ; and these days everybody has a laptop. Some of the tables don’t have an electricity plug. Please consider.

Nigel Peters

It was such a calm and reassuring library knowing that people are still reading in this modern technological age of Super computers and lightning fast internet. Plenty of books in case you are wondering- fantastic collection of books for every reader. There is a fast elevator to take you up and down the 4 floors. Saw a lot of staff around and quiet areas where you could work. Computers to for those who need then. It's free to enter so anyone can. Parking is available outside and is metered - what a blessing in Montreal. If you like reading go to this library.

Michel Nault

(Translated) For me very good service thank you BanQ (Original) Pour moi très bon service merci BanQ

Gabriel R. Rizzoli

I love this place. Yeah the sound of the elevators can be slightly distracting when you're reading, and the bathrooms could be vastly improved, still I'm so glad this place exists. It's modern, warm and inspiring. I notably enjoy the seats in the back. I stopped renting my films when realised i could get them for free here.

Lucille Doiron

(Translated) Great place, very safe you have to enter through the main door. The staff are very helpful and greatly facilitate our research. (Original) Super endroit ,très sécuritaire il faut entrer par la porte principale. Le personnel est très aidant et facilite grandement notre recherche.

Victoire K

Great place to study! go there in the morning as the spots fill in pretty fast! Access direct from the metro, so you dont even need to go outside

Write Tome

Awesome library

Alex Su 1404B

It was negative 15 outside and my friend was late to pick me up, so I thought it would be acceptable to wait here until he finds his way around Montreal. (I am a university student from Ontario and not familiar with the area). I was quiet, and standing on a corner with no one around me. The security guard approached me and insisted that I have to leave without giving any reason and forced me to stand in the cold for 10 minutes.

Marc-Antoine Bernier

(Translated) Very large selection, friendly staff, absolutely execrable clientele which makes reading or working impossible. The homeless people who sleep in the seats, the people who yell / giggle / stomp in the aisles, that's not what you would expect from a library. As a student who thought that BanQ would be a refuge for studies, I find myself very disappointed ... especially since it is not the staff's fault if people do not know how to live. Maybe better security would be the solution. Perhaps such a large library cannot be saved from the fuss. I will continue to rent my stuff there, but I will not spend more time there. (Original) Très grande sélection, personnel sympathique, clientèle absolument exécrable qui rend la lecture ou le travail impossible. Les sans abris qui dorment dans les sièges, les gens qui hurlent/gloussent/tape du pied dans les allées, ce n'est pas ce à quoi on s'attend d'une bibliothèque. En tant qu'étudiant qui pensait que la BanQ serait un refuge ppur les études, je m'en retrouve très déçu... d'autant plus que ce n'est pas la faute du personnel si les gens ne savent pas vivre. Peut être qu'une meilleure sécurité serait la solution. Peut être qu'une bibliothèque aussi grande ne peut pas être sauvée du tapage. Je continuerai à louer mes trucs là bas, mais je n'y passerai plus de temps.

Brian Barrett

Closed on Monday....do you guys want to make money or no?

Y M

Libraries are places of refuge for many, and this one is no different. Magnificent library, worth the visit even for visitors.

greg gerg

One day when I was walking to the library, i saw a group of men threatening to punch each other. I watched for a bit because why not, and during the 10 minutes i was watching these dudes, not a single punch was thrown. I then went to the get my books but 1 of them wasnt there. I went home to find out my wife had left with the dog but left me my son, which is cool of her i guess. I ate a grilled cheese sandwich from tim hortons to cheer myself up after that disappointing day.

Keiko Brival

(Translated) A library that you almost don't want to leave. You can find anything there. There is never a shortage of space! The staff are very helpful and they are found on each of the 3 floors of the building. Super manga department updated more and more regularly possibility of ordering via the online portal and presence of borrowing and automated payment terminals. (Original) Une bibliothèque que l'on n'a presque pas envie de quitter. On y trouve TOUT. La place ne manque jamais ! Le personnel est très serviable et on en retrouve à chacun des 3 étages de l'édifice. Super rayon de mangas mis de plus en plus régulièrement à jour possibilité de commander via le portail en ligne et présence de bornes d'emprunt et de paiement automatisé.

Michel Filion

A wonderland.

Martin Duclos

Service genial!

libei -

(Translated) Everything is perfect, except the interface of the search catalog on the BANQ website which is much less user-friendly (easy to use). The old catalog (from a few years ago) was perfect though. (Original) Tout est parfait, sauf l'interface du catalogue de recherche sur le site internet de la BANQ qui est beaucoup moins convivial (facile d'utilisation). L'ancien catalogue (d'il y a quelques années) était parfait pourtant.

Lucia Taddeo

Wonderful library with a vast selection of books from different categories in different languages. Large reference center. Computers available for individual use.

Mario Desjardins

(Translated) Can you give direct access via the underground parking lot without forcing us to walk 150m outside ... Thank you. (Original) Pouvez-vous donner accès direct via le stationnement souterrain sans nous obliger à marcher 150m dehors... Merci.

Daniel Krauss

It's a nice library, lots of space and the internet is pretty reliable

Dianne Demers

(Translated) Very good library. Welcoming and friendly as well as warm. Thank you to all of you who work at this library (Original) Très bonne bibliothèque. Accueillant et sympathique ainsi que chaleureux. Merci a vous tous qui travailler a cette bibliothèque

arthur lenko

Warning, DO not sit on any chairs there,they r infested with BED BUGS!

Aur D

Nice and empty, you should take your time if drive a car, not a lot of parking places near ( i didnt use their parking, no idea what to expect ). Paper books seems to become a taboo now ... you can not wash a book, no ? ????

glen dolhan

Excellent selection of books on any subject in English and French. Friendly helpful staff.