The San Marcos Library, located in the heart of San Marcos, California, is a vibrant community hub that offers a wide range of services, programs, and resources to patrons of all ages. As a key component of the San Diego County Library system, the San Marcos Library is committed to providing access to information, promoting literacy, and fostering a love of reading and learning.
History and Architecture
The San Marcos Library was established in 1967 and has since undergone several expansions and renovations to meet the growing needs of the community. The current library building, which opened in 2003, features a stunning design that blends modern architecture with natural elements. The 29,000-square-foot facility boasts a spacious interior with ample natural light, comfortable seating areas, and state-of-the-art technology.
Services and Programs
The San Marcos Library offers a diverse array of services and programs for children, teens, and adults. These include storytime sessions, book clubs, author talks, and other literary events. The library also provides access to a vast collection of materials, including books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, and online resources. Patrons can also take advantage of the library’s free Wi-Fi, printing and scanning services, and meeting rooms.
One of the library's most popular programs is the Summer Reading Program, which encourages children and teens to read for fun and prizes during the summer months. The program features a variety of activities, including author visits, crafts, and games, and is designed to promote literacy and a love of reading.
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Research Assistance | Librarians are available to help patrons with research questions and provide guidance on using library resources. |
| Computer Access | The library offers public computers with internet access, as well as printing and scanning services. |
| Meeting Rooms | The library has several meeting rooms available for community groups and organizations to use for free. |
Community Outreach and Partnerships
The San Marcos Library is committed to outreach and partnership-building with local organizations and community groups. The library works closely with schools, businesses, and non-profits to provide programming and services that meet the unique needs of the community. For example, the library has partnered with the San Marcos Unified School District to provide literacy programs and resources for students and families.
Collection Development
The San Marcos Library’s collection is diverse and extensive, featuring over 100,000 items, including fiction and non-fiction books, audiobooks, e-books, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs. The library also offers a range of digital resources, including online databases, e-books, and streaming services. Patrons can access the library’s catalog online and request items for pickup at the library or other San Diego County Library locations.
The library's Collection Development Policy ensures that the collection remains relevant and responsive to community needs, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The policy also prioritizes the acquisition of materials in multiple formats, including large print, braille, and audio descriptions, to support patrons with disabilities.
What are the library’s hours of operation?
+The San Marcos Library is open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 am to 8:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm, and Sunday from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
How can I get a library card?
+To get a library card, simply visit the San Marcos Library with a valid form of identification and proof of address. You can also apply online and pick up your card at the library.
What programs and services are available for children?
+The San Marcos Library offers a variety of programs and services for children, including storytime sessions, book clubs, and other activities designed to promote literacy and a love of reading. The library also has a dedicated children’s area with a play zone and a collection of materials tailored to young readers.
