eLibrary
Your Mechanics' Institute membership gets you access to a variety of online resources.
?>eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines
Use Libby to access eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines with your Mechanics' Institute library card. Available on the web, mobile devices, and eReaders.
Streaming video
Stream classic cinema, independent films, BBC television series, PBS shows, and more, with new titles added every month. Available online and on your phone, tablet, or smart TV.
Online Databases
A Mechanics' Institute membership gets you access to academic, literary, and financial databases. Visit our Online Databases page for the full list.
Need help accessing eLibrary resources?
How to use Libby
- Download Libby on your phone/tablet or go to libbyapp.com
- When you log on for the first time, you'll be prompted to add your library card
- Tap or click "Yes, I have a library card"
- When asked to find your library, select "Search For a Library" then search for Mechanics' Institute
- At the next screen, select "Sign In With My Card." Enter your library card number (the longer one)
- You can now borrow books, magazines, and audiobooks. For more help, visit Libby's Help section
If you have further questions, don't hesitate to call us at 415-303-0101 or email reference@milibrary.org.
Mechanics' Institute librarians offer classes on how to use Libby. Keep an eye on our calendar for more information.
How to use Kanopy
- Go to Kanopy on the web or install Kanopy on your device or smart TV
- Create an account with your email address
- When asked to select a library, search for Mechanics' Institute
- Enter your library card number to register
- Browse for movies to watch
Kanopy uses a ticket system. Each month, you will get an allotment of tickets to spend to stream content on Kanopy. Movies can cost different quantities of tickets, so be sure to check before streaming.
If you find you are unable to watch movies, it may be because you are out of tickets. It's also possible that your membership has expired and your card is no longer valid. Please call us at 415-303-0101 or email circulation@milibrary.org if you have questions.
How to use JSTOR or other databases
Please contact us at reference@milibrary.org or swing by the reference desk and ask for a librarian. We will be happy to show you how to make the most of these resources or help you with a research project. Also keep an eye on our calendar for upcoming classes on how to conduct research with JSTOR and other online searching tools.
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
Site photography by Greg Habiby