The recently restored landmark Central Library and four historic branches reflect the pride and commitment of the Berkeley community. A great library is more than a building and more than books. A great library stands at the center of its community and is the home of learning and exploration for everyone. The Berkeley Public Library is one of the most beloved institutions in the City and one of the busiest libraries of its size nationwide. The Central Branch, located in the heart of the downtown, reopened in 2002 after an extensive renovation, nearly doubling in size and quadrupling in usage to over 2,500 people daily. The four branches, North, South, West and Claremont, are situated in the four corners of the city and are neighborhood “destinations”. Each branch brings unique benefits to the intellectually and culturally diverse populations it serves, adapting and evolving in an ever-changing environment.