Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Library for Free Resources & Community Programs in Berkeley
Berkeley Public Library has served the community since 1908, offering free access to educational resources, digital media, and cultural programs. Our mission is to empower residents through knowledge, innovation, and inclusive services. We provide books, audiobooks, and streaming content via our eLibrary, accessible 24/7 with a library card. Community-focused initiatives include literacy programs, free museum passes, and meeting spaces for public use. Our dedicated staff curates collections and programs tailored to all age groups, from children's storytime to adult learning workshops. We prioritize accessibility through services like Books by Mail and adaptive technology for patrons with disabilities.The library hosts events celebrating cultural heritage, including Indigenous Heritage Month and BPL Comic Con. Our strategic plan emphasizes sustainability, equity, and expanding digital resources to meet evolving community needs. With multiple branches and a pedal-powered mobile library, we ensure access to information across Berkeley. We collaborate with local organizations through the Berkeley Information Network to connect residents with social services. Our historical archives and genealogy resources support research into local and family history. The library remains committed to adapting its services while maintaining its founding principles of free, open access to knowledge.
Services
Book Lending
eLibrary Access
Community Resources
Meeting Rooms
Literacy Programs
Genealogy Research
Children's Storytime
Digital Media Streaming
Museum Passes
Mobile Library Service
Details
- Year established: 1908
Highlights and features
- We provide free access to books, digital media, and educational resources for all ages
- Our eLibrary offers 24/7 access to ebooks, audiobooks, and streaming content
- We host free community events celebrating cultural heritage and innovation
- Our staff curates personalized reading recommendations and learning resources
- We offer adaptive technology and services for patrons with disabilities
Services
Book Lending
Borrow physical books, DVDs, and audiobooks from our extensive collection. Available to all ages with a free library card. Materials can be reserved online and picked up at any branch.
eLibrary Access
Access ebooks, audiobooks, magazines, and streaming music 24/7 with your library card. Our digital collection includes thousands of titles for adults and children through platforms like Libby and OverDrive.
Community Resources
Connect with social services, job resources, and community organizations through our Berkeley Information Network. We provide access to computers, WiFi, and assistance finding local support programs.
Meeting Rooms
Reserve free meeting spaces for community groups, study sessions, or public events. Available at all branches with capacity ranging from 8 to 100 people, equipped with AV technology and seating.
Literacy Programs
Participate in adult literacy tutoring, English language classes, and family reading programs. Our Berkeley READS initiative offers one-on-one instruction and resources for all reading levels.
Questions
How do I get a library card?
Apply online for a digital card or visit any branch with ID and proof of Berkeley residency. Cards are free for all ages.
What digital resources are available?
Access ebooks, audiobooks, streaming music, and research databases through our eLibrary using your library card credentials.
Are meeting rooms available for public use?
Yes, we offer free meeting spaces at all branches for community groups, study sessions, and events with advance reservation.
Does the library offer children's programs?
We provide storytime sessions, homework help, and summer reading programs for children, plus a dedicated children's services department.
How can I access genealogy resources?
Use our Ancestry Library Edition database in-house or schedule appointments for specialized genealogy research assistance at Central Library.
Is there a mobile library service?
Our pedal-powered Library on Wheels delivers materials and provides internet access to underserved neighborhoods on a regular schedule.
