About Us
The Friends of the San Carlos Library is a qualified 501(c)3 non-profit organization that brings together people who view their local library as a treasury of knowledge, information, and educational entertainment. The Friends promote community support and use of the library, inform members about issues affecting the library, and provide financial assistance for the library’s infrastructure, collection, and programs as well as for local literacy initiatives. We raise funds by selling donated books and other media via our big monthly book sales (3rd Sunday of each month from 1-4pm on the 2nd floor of the Library), online sales, and in the Friends Bookshop located in the library lobby, as well as through monetary donations.
Major Milestones
- August 1910: The San Carlos Library is the first cultural institution in San Carlos located in the Southern Pacific Depot.
- January 1916: The San Carlos Library is selected as the first branch of the San Mateo County Library Association.
- November 1963: A new library is built at a cost of $148,130 and houses 30,000 books.
- June 1997: A Library Bond (Measure A) for $8 million passes to build a new two-story library building with meeting and office space as well as underground parking.
- August 1999: The new library is dedicated at a cost of $10 million and houses 70,000 items, 12 internet terminals, and outdoor space.
- August 2009: The 10 year anniversary of the Library, featuring 119,000 items, 41 internet terminals, and monthly circulation of 52,000 items.
- November 2013: Renovation of the Library is completed.
Officers — 2023-2024
- President – Amy Schwimmer
- Vice President – Linda Townsend
- Secretary – Molly Nguyen
- Treasurer – Roy Hoyer