About
Your Library
The San Rafael Public Library is comprised of three branches – Downtown, Pickleweed, and Northgate – and we belong to the MARINet consortium. This means that you can use your San Rafael Public Library card at any public or academic library in Marin County, and you can return materials to any location. We offer a diverse collection of physical and digital materials including books, movies, shows, music, free passes to parks and museums, and more. We also host programs and events for all ages. As of July 2021, the San Rafael Public Library is proud to be totally fine-free; you can enjoy library materials without fear of accruing late fees.
Mission Statement
Engage, empower, and enrich our community through innovation, imagination, and inspiration.
Land Acknowledgment
The San Rafael Public Library acknowledges that we are located on the unceded ancestral lands of the Coast Miwok people of present-day Marin and southern Sonoma counties. We honor with gratitude the land itself, and all of its ancestors: past, present, and emerging.
City of San Rafael
The San Rafael Public Library is a part of the Library & Recreation department of the City of San Rafael.
Library Board of Trustees
The Library Board of Trustees provides input on policies and regulations regarding the library’s budget, programs, outreach and facilities. They provide support for the Library Director, support the Library Foundation in its quest for a new library, serve as advocates for the library to the City Council, and help increase the visibility of the library in the community
Support Your Library
Find out more about the Friends of the Library and the Library Foundation.
2024 Downtown Library Renovation Project
In September 2024, the Downtown Library will be closing for much-needed safety and infrastructure updates. Learn more about the project here.
Downtown Library Expansion Efforts
Take a look at the official project page to stay up-to-date on the ongoing efforts to build new and improved San Rafael Public Library facilities.
Senior Parcel Tax Exemptions
If you are 65 years of age or older by July 1 of the tax year, and own and occupy your residence in San Rafael, you can file an tax exemption application (must be filed on or before June 1). Print out a Senior Exemption Application form.
Library Policies
Guidelines for Library Use (Normas para el Uso de la Biblioteca)
Child Safety Policy (Política de Seguridad Infantíl)
Checkout Limits and Fees (Limites de Préstamos, Cargos y Multas)
Lost and Damaged Items Policy
Privacy Policy (Poliza de Privacidad)
Computer and Internet Access Policy
City of San Rafael Website Privacy and Posting Guidelines
San Rafael Public Library Web Commenting and Posting Policy
Community Information Posting Policy
Group Visit Guidelines (Guía para Visitas en Grupo)
Collection Development Policy
Gift & Donation Policy
The Library also affirms the principles upheld in the American Library Association’s Code of Ethics and Library Bill of Rights.