I didn't know until recently that funding for the library is based on usage…read more So in addition to finding lots of great books and movies you don't have to pay for, you're doing a needed service just by using a public library. In person, online or sign up for the Kanopy app on your TV (with Firestick, Roku, Apple TV and more) and have 30,000 movies, series, documentaries free at your fingertips - and commercial free! And when you borrow a book from the SFPL there aren't any late fees anymore. Simply return your books and movies to any branch to borrow new titles. I also heard something about free museum passes.. gotta check that out. Support your public libraries!

San Francisco Main Library is rich with resources. Aside from books, videos, music, and research…read morematerials, they also rent out spaces for community events. Library cardholders also have access to free admission to local museums via Discover & Go, amongst other resources. And there is a library in every neighborhood, making it one of the best neighborhood information hubs for kids and adults. Located on Larkin and Grove.

Quiet and clean. Many parents bring their babies and kids…read morehere, so don't complain of the noise from the little ones.

Super nice neighborhood library especially if you have kids! Story times on Tuesdays and Thursdays…read moreare amazing, plus other kids activities every two weeks. My daughter can't help it but comes inside even when we heading to the playground. There're also a few games and a nice little play area for kids inside which is our common place to be on a rainy day.

Since being unemployed in the Bay Area thanks to recent layoffs... I've taken the opportunity to…read moreexplore the city during the weekday. Specifically to do things that are only possible on the weekdays. Like exploring some historic buildings! The Mechanics Institute is one of the oldest institutions on the West Coast and this particular building had been around since 1910. It is a members only building, but they hold free public tours on Wednesdays at 12 pm weekly (sign up available online through their website): - During the tour you'll learn a little bit about the history of both the institution and SF, but you'll also learn about what it does today. You'll get to see the chess room, library, and some art deco architecture elements like the spiral staircase and glass dome ceiling. The Chess Room was fascinating since they talk about some notable members, like how the author of Queen's Gambit was a member of their Chess Club. - The tour time can range anywhere from 30 min to 1 hr depending on the questions that come up. However, they allow you to spend time afterwards exploring the library (or taking photos of the staircase) so you can hang out afterwards to look books, old magazines, or admire the collection of artwork they have on the walls. - During the tour you can go up / down the spiral staircase, but there is an elevator present for those who have difficulty walking up the floors. However some parts of the tour had us going through the library shelves and navigating stairs among the shelves. - Although the tour is an opportunity for them to showcase membership benefits... they are NOT pushy at all about selling memberships. However, if I were living near/in the city and working remotely... a membership would be a good option. It's very affordable compared to other private memberships and it's a quieter library than most public these days. They also have great WiFi and rooms available to do video conferencing, so it's a more affordable option than places like WeWork while still being in the city. Plus you can probably leave your stuff behind to run to the restroom quickly... something you can't really do working in free public places like a cafe or public library. This is on top of other benefits like members only events, etc. Honestly, this is a hidden gem in the city with historic significance - if I lived closer to the city and had a remote job, I would definitely look into getting a membership. Public libraries are still great, but I can see the benefits of a private library like this one. Cheers to funemployment and getting the opportunity to explore SF buildings!

The history of the Mechanics' Institute is quite intriguing, with great ties to the early 20th…read morecentury and is considered a historic building of San Francisco. Though this location is not the original building, it stands strong and tall in the heart of downtown. As with many structures affected by the 1906 earthquake, its original location was damaged and lost. But this location has been here early on for those who worked in the trade and was one of the first libraries before city public libraries were established. There are many stories to this building, housed with books of many genres. There's also community events that are for members as well as for non-members. So yes, there are fees to join any of their community events here. The history itself was probably more interesting about this building than the building itself. It is definitely very dated inside, but there are some notable designs that can make you feel like you're in a different time. A positive visit nonetheless.

potrero branch library is a small 2-story library with very friendly librarians, it's perfect for…read morefamilies, children, remote workers, or anyone looking for a quiet place to work and read. highly recommend!

Checked out Potrero Branch library Sat 10/18/25. They had an Potrero Hill R&B Festival outside so…read moreI couldn't see where the library was, had to go behind the tables to see it. They have 2 floors. 1 unisex toilet first floor, 2 on the top. Bottom floor has seed catalog to help yourself to seeds for your garden. Nice views at the top floor, looking out of the windows, of the city.

Wonderful service! Cute activities for kids, families, adults, and seniors. I've gotten craft…read moreprojects I could do at home like embroidery, and they also offer in-library events and movie screenings! I come here often for their printer and request many books online in the SFPL system and then they are delivered here, waiting for me! There's 2 levels and something for everyone. I love how it's near Chinatown so I can get food or boba nearby. It's on a cable car line so it's always a fun time! I've provided entertainment for many a tourist when they see me carrying too many books.

Great library. Good variety, helpful staff and clean! Been going there since I was a kid and…read moredecided to stop by last visit. Still a cute, small branch!

The pastries do taste good and worth the money. I would still think you have to devote time to get…read moreyour order in and pay. There is no parking. Unless you want to pay at the parming garage across the street. Bus or walk only. But if you are in the neighborhood, it is good to stop by.

Most unhelpful people I've ever came across, the counselors just email to you in circles when you,…read moresaying the same two things when try to get ahold of them, nothing is ever available, the take over a week to respond to emails both veterans and regular counselors, they are extremely rude. How can people attend school if they are making it so difficult to even get help.

This library is so cute. I just walked in because I love checking out libraries. It's amazing how…read morethey're able to fit so much in such a small space. It's a single floor with the back area being the children's playroom. There's a single gender, neutral bathroom. Staff is very friendly.

Hey old friend 23 days ago I was born into the future haha ...old sign near the 1 bus and Lyon or…read morethe full house homes

Services was impressive, from both the hostess & our server. Ambiance is top notch! Music &…read moreconversations! Definitely did not check my email for the secret word of the day missed out on that experience. But of course I had a reservation. Drinks were very good! What an extensive cocktail menu!

Checked out this speakeasy while in SF last year. It wasn't too hard to find and I think my friend…read morewas able to make reservations. There was another room, so it was a bit confusing, but I think that one was for dining. The bartender wasn't too friendly at first, but warmed up after a few minutes. He was able to make some refreshing mocktails! The vibe here is dark and moody. The main decor is just the bookshelves. Worth a try if you're in the area!

I attended a free Chinatown Food Tour conducted by the North Beach Branch head librarian Mr Lee. It…read morewas free. There were free food samples along the way! What a delightful surprise! As we walked along, we learned about Chinatown history and also historical Chinese food facts. Attendees on this walk/tour came from all over the City. The two hours flew by! What was great was: people were chatting with each other; the stories we heard were quite fascinating; and Mr. Lee was a lively & fun personality. Plus the snacks! This might have been an inaugural event / tour for adults as a new activity for the NB Library. If it is, I'd say it was a winner!

U should find good outlets for your time ..come hang out spend time ..read ..write ..be positive…read more..the war is over but the struggle is real usa..don't get it

The Public Knowledge Library is the latest public library of the San Francisco Public Library…read moresystem & is the 29th library in the system. It is located on the second floor of the SFMOMA & opened about 6 months ago. It will be here at SFMOMA until 2019 & perhaps permanently. The Public Knowledge project includes installations by artists & librarians using resources such as books, magazines, & newspapers addressing the shifting paradigm of libraries to digital technology. The Public Knowledge Library aims to showcase the historic & contemporary relevance of public libraries to support individual needs & interests along w/ generating a community spirit. When I visited today besides browsing some excellent books they also had on display an original card catalogue cabinet from the main library from 1917 that was used until 1989 when it was replaced by digital records. Also on display here was vinyl records & listening stations w/ a focus on musicians in San Francisco. I was delighted to listen to the original first recordings of Joan Baez in San Francisco that was recorded in June, 1958 when she was just 17 years old. It was interesting to listen to her play w/ just her vocals & an acoustic guitar. I also enjoyed listening to some of Miles Davis Live at Blackhawk in San Francisco. I liked reading the linear notes on both records. Items here are non-circulating yet don't worry as many of the items are available for check out at the main library. It is worth paying a visit to SFMOMA if in SoMa to visit the Public Knowledge Library & look forward to returning to see other exhibits here down the line.