As Arthur the aardvark knew well, having fun isn’t hard when you’ve got a library card. The San Francisco Public Library proves this daily, boasting one of the highest visit rates per capita in the nation, strong community programs, and an incredible collection of physical and digital media.
The SFPL collection spans over 3.6 million items across the main branch, 27 neighborhood branches, and bookmobiles. Members can check out up to 100 items at a time, and popular magazines, movies, and music can be downloaded directly to your device. I am consistently impressed by the vast quantity of available books, including Spanish-language titles. The top-notch cross-branch transfer system means that all of this is delivered quickly to your local branch.
The physical collection is just the beginning. Your library card also unlocks free language courses, college prep tutoring, streaming platforms, museum admissions, financial counseling, and much more. Read on for a tour of everything SFPL has to offer.
Upcoming Events:
Starting March 4, 125+ Concerts @ The Golden Gate Bandshell in Golden Gate Park
April 8, Bay Curious Trivia @ KQED Headquarters
April 9, AI vs. Everybody: Making Sense of AI w/ Jasmine Sun @ Manny’s
April 9, California Henge
April 9 - 12, Preservation Hall Jazz Band @ Presidio Theatre
April 9, Workshop: Bike Repair Fix-It Clinic
April 10 - 12, 23rd Annual International Ocean Film Festival
April 10, Craftchella @ Sunset Commons
April 10, “Sentimental Value” screening @ Proxy
April 11, Social: Plant Swap
April 11, Workshop: Culinary Skills with 18 Reasons (Ages 13-18)
April 11 - May 16, Off The Grid: Treasure Island (Saturdays)
April 11/12, 18/19, Cherry Blossom Fest 2026
April 12, PloverFest @ Sunset Dunes Park
April 15, The Sound Pour @ The Faight Collective
April 15, Congressional Candidate Forum @ United Irish Cultural Center
April 16, Nerd Nite @ Rickshaw Stop
April 18, Second Hand Saturdays
April 19, Wiggle Fest