Become A Member

Aris Quartet on stageI support the 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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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.  

  • Member Rate for Rentals: Members receive discounts on classroom and meeting room rentals.

  • Reciprocal Privileges: Membership provides access to other historic membership libraries across the U.S. 

Site photography by Greg Habiby