SMC-Connect Logo

Find community services in San Mateo County

Main Library

Libraries

Main Library

San Mateo City Public Library

Provides general reading materials, programs and reference services for adults, teenagers and children.

Description:

Provides general reading materials and reference services to adults, teenagers and children as well as access to a business reference collection. In addition to books and periodicals, card holders may borrow compact discs, DVDs, cassettes and large print materials. Materials are available in Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, French and Farsi. Magnifying aids and talking books for visually disabled patrons are available. 104 internet accessible computers and free wireless are available for public use. The library has an extensive Californiana collection. The third floor houses the Screaming Eagles display, which contains photographs, documents and other memorabilia of the 101st U.S. Airborne Division. Also offers story hours for preschool and school-age children. Other services include Biotechnology Learning Center, InfoSeekers Student Research Center, Foundation Center Collection, U.S. Passport acceptance services, and community meeting rooms for rent. Volunteers deliver library materials to persons who are homebound, tutor students in the Project Read adult literacy program and provide support in many areas. The library is a member of the Peninsula Library System. Two branch libraries: Hillsdale Branch (described separately) is located at 205 West Hillsdale Blvd (650-522-7880), and Marina Branch (described separately) is located at 1530 Susan Court (650-522-7890).

Location

Public Transit:

SAMTRANS stops within 2 blocks, CALTRAIN station within 6 blocks.
55 West 3rd Avenue, San Mateo, CA 94402 37.5619664 -122.3267392 Libraries

Service Options

Languages Spoken:

  • Cantonese
  • Japanese
  • Persian
  • Spanish

Accessibility Options:

  • Disabled Parking
  • Disabled Restroom
  • Elevator
  • Wheelchair

Services

Fees:

Vary for interlibrary loan requests, reserves. Cash, checks, credit and debit cards accepted.

Eligibility:

Resident of California to obtain card. Special arrangements for non-residents or homeless

How to Apply:

Walk in. Photo identification with proof of residence required to receive a library card. Special arrangements for homeless.

Service Wait Estimate:

No wait.

Service Areas:

  • San Mateo County