Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Hercules Library?
The Hercules Library is at 109 Civic Drive, at the corner of Civic Drive and Sycamore Avenue.  There is a parking lot in front of the entrance and a WestCat bus stop directly across the street from the library. 

When is the Hercules Library open?
The Library is open 45 hours a week. 
Sun:  Noon - 5:00pm
Mon-Tues:   1 - 9:00pm
Wed-Thurs-Sat:   10:00am - 6:00pm
Fri:   closed

Who operates the library?
The Hercules Library is under the jurisdiction of the Contra Costa County Library (CCCL). The Hercules Library is the 24th CCCL-operated library. CCCL provides library service to all Contra Costa County cities except Richmond. CCCL also operates branches in unincorporated areas such as Crockett, El Sobrante, and Rodeo. 

Is it too late to get my family/business name acknowledged as a library donor?
No, naming opportunities exist for donations as little as $50.  Please refer to the Donor links listed on this web site's home page.

How big is the Hercules Library?
The Library is a 21,500 sq. ft. one-story building.  It is the largest branch operated by Contra Costa County.

What kind of materials does the library have?
The collection is designed to serve the needs of our diverse community. Library materials include books, magazines, newspapers, CDs, DVDs, and books-on-tape that meet the diverse information needs of children, teens and adults. The library also has special collections that showcase the cultural heritage of Hercules residents. 

What kind of electronic resources and equipment does the Hercules Library have? 
The Library has personal computers, electronic databases, DVD players, and laptop connections in the study areas.  There is also a Computer/Homework Center.

Will K-12 students be able to get homework help? 
Absolutely. There is a Computer/Homework Center where K-12 students can access CCCL's online catalog, electronic databases, the Internet and other interactive online homework resources and tools for K-12 students. There will also be programs to help parents learn about on-line homework resources.

Does the Hercules Library have meeting or study rooms?
Yes, the Library has several meeting rooms. There is a small conference room and small study rooms for tutoring or group study. There is also a large meeting room that seats 60 people and will be equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. The large meeting room will be accessible for public use when the library is closed.  At present, rentals are not being taken.

Does the Hercules Library have a patio or garden?
Library users can enjoy the Sky Garden, a glass-enclosed atrium in the center of the building. The Sky Garden is a major natural light source and a pleasant, outdoor space to relax with your favorite book.  The Children's Garden is located outside of the children's collection area and is open for quiet reading and library programming.

Does the Hercules Library have a bookstore?
Yes, the Friends of the Hercules Library operates a library store.  Located to the left as you enter the Library's lobby, this store features gently used books, books-on-tape, DVDs, and videos.  Friends logo t-shirts, book bags, hats, library mugs, and bookmarks are also on sale.  The store is open the same hours as the library.

What other features and services does the Hercules Library have?
A children's library containing children's materials, reading areas with child-size furniture and computer stations and programs for children, parents and care-givers. 

A Teen Room designed for teens to gather and study in groups. 

Services and informational programs designed to meet the needs of many segments of the community such as seniors, limited-English speakers, owners of small businesses, and others with specific information needs. 

Special collections and programs showcasing the cultural heritage of Hercules residents.

Volunteer opportunities for youth and adults. 

Did Hercules have a library before?
Hercules had a one-room library in the Historic Clubhouse.  The library was operated by the Contra Costa County Library (CCCL) from 1913 until 1970. Bookmobile service was provided from 1970 until 1993.