By Vaughn Bui
Opened in 1975, the Huntington Beach Central Library (HBCL), has been a popular place to study for students and adults from surrounding communities. Its sheer size provides a variety of seats, with each section being accompanied by its own ambience and scenery.
With hundreds of visitors every day, some people may find that the environment accompanying certain seats may offer a better work-environment than others. As a person who has visited the HBCL multiple times a week for the past couple of years, I have noticed that the surroundings of certain seating areas can cause unwanted distractions. I’ve compiled my thoughts about every kind of seating at the library that I’ve personally worked at into a letter-based tier list below: ‘F’ being the worst tier, and ‘S’ being the best.
It’s good to note that many flaws that come with some seats can be fixed with certain ‘accessories’ such as noise-cancelling headphones, or a group of friends. Nonetheless, the tier-list is based on my experiences as a solo-studier at the library without noise-cancelling headphones—due to the fact that I always forget them at home.
F-tier: tables surrounding the main water fountain/spiral walkway
As you step into the library, you are greeted by the sound of rushing water and a giant spiral walkway; at the base of the fountain are many small tables and seats. Although the ambience of water is nice to some, the splashing water is super loud. The tables and chairs are cramped which may be fitting for one to two people. The lack of electrical outlets means you’re running on your device’s battery. Additionally, these seats offer little privacy as people walk by throughout the day.
The only advantage to this area is that food is openly allowed and the library’s café is in close proximity. Make sure to stop by for a coffee or two if you need!
F-tier: kids seating area
Though I doubt many people would sit in this area, I’ve sat there numerous times as a child. The area is loud—a given as it is often full of energetic kids. S-tier for children; F-tier for the rest of us.
C-tier: group tables in Genealogy
Shielded from the large fountain lies the Genealogy area with several group tables. For students working by themselves, you will have to typically share the area with others. The little amount of electrical ports may also be inconvenient. Unfortunately, food is not allowed in this area either. Though the area is more quiet than at the base of the water fountain, the plastic seats are less comfortable compared to other seats.
The area is also located next to a small restroom—which is definitely the worst restroom in HBCL for being outdated and cramped. Definitely bring a group of friends with you to these seats, it’ll make your experience much more enjoyable.
B-tier: round tables by the tree/fountains
At the furthest corner of the library is an area with a large tree and small water fountains surrounded by little group tables. This little oasis provides the best-looking environment with the soft ambience of the water, views of Huntington Central Park and the greenery of leaves.
Being located at the very corner of the library, this area is the furthest from restrooms, cafe and reception desks—a bother if they are needed. It also tends to be noisy at times as it’s a common spot to work with a group of friends. Some tables are located further away from electrical ports, so you might have to bring a long cable alongside noise-cancelling headphones.
A-tier: top floor four-seater and two-seater tables
At the top-most floor will be the most concentrated seating area with 4-seater tables bundled together. Each seat offers an electrical port to charge your devices, as well as lamps for longer night-studying sessions. Depending on where you sit, the top floor offers pleasant views of the park or the rest of the library.
However, I’ve noticed these seats can get cold as the air conditioning of the building runs from the top floor—a small nitpick that may warrant a jacket or sweater. Additionally, to some people, the crowdedness of the top floor may be a concern for privacy.
Also at the top floor are a couple of two-seater tables that face each other. These smaller tables are located towards the middle of the top floor. They provide a quiet environment, outlets and a close distance to the library’s art gallery.
Compared to the four-seater tables, these are preferred for studying alone as you won’t be sharing with three other strangers, only one. Lastly, though the view at these seats are not as nice as some others, its secluded area and silent atmosphere makes it a solid place to study.
S-tier: two-seater tables between staircases
Located at the back of the library is a collection of staircases with a handful of tables scattered across three platforms. Similar to the ones on the top floor tables, these seats are placed in a peaceful environment that offers the best view of the park out of any other seat. In addition to the beautiful views, water fountains are placed on some platforms, adding a slight ambience of running water. The inclusion of the outlets is great as well; it’s an ideal spot to get studying done.
S-tier: row tables on every floor
Located on every floor are a collection of row-tables. These seats offer a variety of views depending on the level you choose. Bottom level views give you views of either the B-tier tree with group tables surrounding it, or a view of a wall—which may be a good thing. Middle and top levels provide views of the park through the giant window. Best of all, you’re not staring at anyone else directly!
Being located right at the library’s collection of books creates a noiseless environment. Ports are located within arms reach, enough for everyone. With the only criticism being that the sun may shine in your eyes at sunset, these tables are the perfect spot to get your work done.
Final thoughts
I find it hard to even be able to choose a specific seat. The HBCL is often packed with students and adults throughout the entire day, so when you find an open seat, you should take it. Similar to the note in the introduction, the environment surrounding certain areas doesn’t determine how well or poorly you study, they only cause minor inconveniences when you’re diligently getting your work done.
