The Beale Library, located in Bakersfield, California, is a significant cultural and educational hub in the city. Established in 1911, the library has a rich history of providing access to knowledge, information, and community resources to the residents of Bakersfield. With a collection of over 300,000 items, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and databases, the Beale Library offers a wide range of materials to support the diverse needs of its patrons.
History and Development
The Beale Library was founded with a donation of $10,000 from Truxtun Beale, a local businessman and philanthropist. The library’s first location was a small room in the Kern County Courthouse, but it soon outgrew this space and moved to a new building in 1915. Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations, including a major renovation in 2000 that added a new wing and updated the library’s technology infrastructure. Today, the Beale Library is a modern, state-of-the-art facility that offers a comfortable and welcoming environment for patrons of all ages.
Services and Programs
The Beale Library offers a wide range of services and programs to support the educational, recreational, and cultural needs of the community. These include:
- Free access to books, media, and online resources
- Research assistance and instruction
- Children’s storytime and literacy programs
- Author readings and book discussions
- Exhibits and displays of local art and history
- Meeting and study rooms
- Computer and technology classes
- Interlibrary loan and document delivery services
In addition to these services, the Beale Library also partners with local organizations and agencies to provide outreach and outreach services to underserved populations, including homeless individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities.
Collection and Resources
The Beale Library’s collection includes a diverse range of materials, including:
| Collection Category | Number of Items |
|---|---|
| Books | 200,000 |
| Audiobooks | 10,000 |
| E-books | 50,000 |
| Magazines and Newspapers | 500 |
| Databases | 20 |
The library also offers a range of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, music, and movies, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
Technology and Infrastructure
The Beale Library is committed to providing access to cutting-edge technology and digital resources. The library offers:
- Free Wi-Fi and public computers
- Scanning and printing services
- Online research databases and digital collections
- Self-checkout and returns
- Assistive technology for patrons with disabilities
The library's technology infrastructure is designed to be flexible and adaptable, with a focus on supporting the diverse needs of patrons and providing a seamless user experience.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The Beale Library is open Monday through Thursday from 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday from 1pm to 5pm.
Do I need a library card to access the library’s resources?
+Yes, a library card is required to check out materials and access some of the library’s digital resources. However, anyone can visit the library and use the public computers and other resources without a card.
Can I request materials from other libraries?
+Yes, the Beale Library participates in interlibrary loan programs, which allow patrons to request materials from other libraries. This service is free, but some libraries may charge a small fee for shipping and handling.
