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A Cultural Oasis in Downtown San Francisco

Mechanics’ Institute’s Library is a place for the avid reader, downtown commuter, remote worker, offering a quiet and beautiful space that inspires.

A Space to Read, Study, and Work

For an hour or a day, enjoy a book, study, or work remotely.  Reading nooks, cozy, seating, computer workstations, and Wi-Fi are available.

A Library Committed to Service and Growth

Our library team prides itself on personal service and dedication to the intellectual and creative growth of our members.   Staff are available and curate materials in all subjects including the classics, fiction, the latest best-sellers, films, audiobooks and eBooks, and a diverse selection of online resources.

A Historic Setting with Specialized Collections

Our two-story library is housed in our historical Beaux Arts building, constructed in 1910.  We are a general interest library with specialized collections in fiction, San Francisco history, and chess.

Personalized Assistance and Member Services

Our full-time library staff are available to answer questions, help with research, or an interlibrary loan. Services include book purchases by member recommendation and Library by Mail, a service for members who are unable to visit us due to extenuating life events.  We also offer reading events, craft classes, and other member services.

A Venue for Literary and Cultural Events

Our historic library is a venue for special events, book clubs, classes, and writing workshops.  Enjoy the library after hours for special author talks, chamber and jazz music events, game nights, and other special events.

100,000+

Circulating items for the general reader

Electronic Resources

e-books, e-magazine, and online databases

Chess Collection

Housing one of the largest collections in the U.S.

Events in the library

Jul 9

World Literature Book Group: Ballerina by Patrick Modiano

July 9, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Read more Register here
Jul 14

Brown Bag Mystery Readers Group: The Lost Man by Jane Harper

July 14, 2025 12:00 PM - 1:15 PM

Read more Register here
Jul 16

Contemporary Translated Works Book Group: Brandy Sour by Constantia Soteriou

July 16, 2025 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

Read more Register here
Jul 23

World Literature Book Group: The Stolen Bicycle by Wu Ming-Yi

July 23, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:15 PM

Read more Register here
Aug 13

World Literature Book Group: Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata

August 13, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:15 PM

Read more Register here

Become A Member

Join as a new member today and receive 13 months of an annual membership in this time limited offer.  Explore our literary and chess events and access to our historic library.

Explore Membership Benefits
Mural in Lobby

Site photography by Greg Habiby

What’s Inside

Books

Explore MI's collection of over 90,000 books, from the titles of today to the gems of the past

Explore Books

Services & Programs

Programs and services like interlibrary loan and more are available to all members.

Explore Services & Programs

eLibrary

eBooks, eMagazines, film and television streaming, and research tools

Explore eLibrary

Purchase Suggestion

Suggest a book, movie, or music for the Library collection

Explore Purchase Suggestion

Library Policies

Checkout periods and limits, fines, and more

Explore Library Policies