Become A Member

Becoming a member at Mechanics' Institute opens the door to a unique gathering place for readers, thinkers, and creators of all kinds. Join us in being a part of a vibrant community centered on learning, curiosity, and connection.

Benefits include:

Reading and Writing Spaces: Members have full use of the Library and access to comfortable and accessible spaces to work, read, and study in a beautiful environment.
Collections: Members have access to the library's 110,000 volume collection, thousands of e-books and digital magazines, and research using scholarly databases, and archives and special collections.
Reader Services: Our librarians will find just the right book for each member. With Library By Mail - Outreach Services library staff select books for members who are unable to personally visit and access the collection.
Member Rates for Programs And Events: Author Talks, Book Groups, Writers' Groups, Music at Mechanics, Movies At Mechanics, and special events.
Member Rates for Chess: Tournaments, classes, and Scholastic Chess tournaments, camps, and classes.
Reciprocal Privileges: Membership provides access to other historic membership libraries across the U.S.

Greg Habiby

I support Mechanics’ Institute because it provides a rich array of cultural programming that educates and inspires. I always look forward to visiting the beautiful, historic space in downtown San Francisco and engaging in interesting conversations." Alex Gonzalez, Trustee

Membership Levels

Family | $225/year

For a family of two adults and their children under the age of 22 living at the same address.

Individual | $150/year

For one adult.

Student | $80

Student members must be 35 years or younger and enrolled full-time at an accredited educational institution.

Site photography by Greg Habiby

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