If you’re in CA and want to visit some libraries while you’re in the state, we’ve featured 10 of the best public libraries in California below.
1. Central Library (Los Angeles)
The Central Library is located in the Bunker Hill neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. The library opened in 1926 and has a variety of departments, such as The Singleton Adult Literacy Center.
One of the unique features of the library is a video wall located on the Tom Bradley Wing. This library is the third largest library in the nation and boasts a variety of services, including a cafe and Chinese food fast food place. You can view the library’s online catalog and see what they offer before you head out. People can access public computers and Wi-Fi, as well as wireless printing. People can also reserve event rooms for programs or meetings.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
2. San Diego Central Library
The San Diego Central Library has its roots dating back to 1869, but officially opened to the public in 1882. The library underwent renovations and unveiled a state-of-the-art building in September of 2013.
The library offers a variety of services, including free Wi-Fi and public computers. The library proudly hosts a number of cultural programs in addition to its educational events. People can rent rooms for special events or for meetings. There are a number of family and youth programs, such as IDEA labs that feature 3D printing classes and more. People can view their calendar of events for updated programs.
You can contact the library for more information.
3. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library
The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library is the central library location for San Jose, California. It opened in August of 2003 and features a variety of services for the San Jose community.
People can book meeting rooms and look at their public art exhibits. Computers are available to the public on a reservation basis. People can view the library’s online catalog to see what books are available. Children and teens can take advantage of the programs the library offers, such as homework help. There are virtual and in-person events, perfect for people wanting something to do.
Contact the library if you have any questions.
4. Main Library (San Francisco)
The Main Library in San Francisco, California, opened to the public in June of 1879. The library switched locations over the years, but moved to its current location in 1996.
The library offers a number of resources, including an online catalog. People can reserve meeting rooms and also view exhibits if they want to visit the location. There are programs and events available throughout the year, which can be seen on the library’s calendar. There are kids and teens programs also available, like a virtual Storytime. People can reserve a computer or bring their own electric device and use the library’s Wi-Fi.
Contact the library if you have more questions.
5. Central Library (Fresno)
The city of Fresno opened its first library in February of 1892. The library officially opened to anyone who paid Fresno taxes in 1896, becoming one of the first public libraries in California.
People can view the library’s online catalog to check out what the library offers. People can also reserve a variety of educational and entertainment resources online through their virtual library. There are special programs and events for teens, including a discord server for teenagers who want to chat and connect with other book lovers. The library hosts a variety of programs for kids as well, including a book club. People can reserve a room for meetings or public events. The library also offers veteran resources for those who served in the military.
Contact the library for more information.
6. Central Library (Sacramento)
The Sacramento Central Library can trace its origins back to 1857, where citizens created a library association to share educational resources. It did not become a public library until 1879 when the library association transferred its assets to the city.
The library is located in the Old Sacramento neighborhood of Sacramento, California. The library offers Wi-Fi, computers, and even 3D printing services. The library offers special events and virtual programs. Parents can also bring their kids to Storytime as part of their Early Learning Education. Stay up to date with the library’s calendar.
People can contact the library for more information.
7. Billie Jean King Main Library
The Billie Jean King Main Library is located in Long Beach, California. The current library opened in September of 2019. The Long Beach Library System has its roots back to 1896 as a reading room. It opened to the public 1909.
The library is a great resource for the Long Beach community, offering Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing in addition to renting books. There is a studio that offers free programs like sewing and creative service classes. Kids and teens can take advantage of a variety of programs. View the events calendar if you’re in the area and want to stop by.
Contact the library for more information.
8. Oakland Main Library
The Main Library is located near Lake Merritt in Oakland, California. The library has been a mainstay for Oakland since 1878.
People can use computers, Wi-Fi, and even rent internet hotspots. People can view their online catalog to see what books, movies, or educational resources there are. There are also a variety of rooms available to rent for programs and meetings. The library offers resources for kids and teens, including Toy Lending.
If you have any questions, reach out to the library.
9. Beale Memorial Library
The Beale Memorial Library is located in Bakersfield, California and opened in June of 1900. The library is named after the Beale family, who deeded the property to the city.
People can take advantage of plenty of resources at the library. Wi-Fi is available throughout the library and its parking lot, along with wireless printing. There are more resources available online, such as eBooks. The library also offers kids programs. People can check out the event page online for updated program dates.
Contact the library for more information.
10. Anaheim Public Library
The Anaheim Public Library opened in August of 1902 to the public. The library was renovated and reopened in July 2010.
The library offers a variety of services available to the public. The library has reading programs available for people of all ages. There are resources available for kids and families. Teens can also take part in events at the library. There’s an annual comic event called AnaCon which draws in residents and tourists.
Contact the library for more information.