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Library

Show All Answers

1. What services does the Library have?

The South San Francisco Public Library is more than just books; we provide a variety of services and collections in three locations to meet the educational, recreational and informational needs of the diverse community of South San Francisco. In addition to thousands of great books, the Main and Grand Avenue Branch Libraries offer the use of computers with Internet access, Microsoft Word and Excel, wireless Internet access, subscription databases, DVDs, CDs and children’s CD ROMs. The Grand Avenue Library also has a large collection of Spanish language materials.

2. Does the Library have special programs for children and teens?

Year round programs include Preschool and Toddler story time on various weekday mornings and evenings at Main and Grand Libraries, including Spanish story time at Grand. Special activities are regularly scheduled, in addition to outreach to the schools and library class visits. Summer programs and activities are built around the popular Summer Reading Clubs for children and teens, and the Reader Leader Program.

3. How do I get a Library card for myself or my child?

Valid current ID is required to obtain a library card. Preferred ID is a California's Driver's License or a California Department of Motor Vehicles ID card. The alternative is a picture ID, and ID with your current address. Ask for forms of acceptable ID.

For children age 17 or younger, the child must be with the parent/legal guardian at the time of application. Note: There is no age limit for a library card; however, the parent/legal guardian must have the ID as required for adults, or have a current PLS library card, with the same address and phone number as the child. We also issue library cards during class visits when teachers return library card applications with parental signatures. Library Card Application

4. Does the Library have Wifi?

Yes, both Main and Grand Avenue Libraries provide free wireless internet access with no log in required.

5. Can I receive overdue and reserve notices by e-mail?

Yes, include your email address on the application form when you apply for a card or at any time ask Circulation Desk staff to add this information to your library record (you will be asked to present identification).

6. Is using the Library auditorium/meeting room free?

Use of the auditorium at the Main Library is available – on a limited basis - for booking by local non-profit groups, targeting a South San Francisco audience. There is no charge for using the auditorium. Please see Auditorium Use Policy for more details. Auditorium Use Policy

7. Can I find out what items my child has checked out of the Library?

Parents must have their child's card in hand to obtain information about what items are out.

8. Do I need a Library card to check out books?

You must be a current, registered member in good standing with appropriate ID in hand. We prefer the library card be used - this saves some steps in the transaction process and allows us to more easily up date your card, when needed. However, if you have forgotten your library card you can show your Driver's License.

Note: For use of Self Check (at the Main Library) and during periods when the primary library automated system is not available, you will not be able to check out with the Driver's ID.

9. Can I pick up my spouces hold (reserve) item without having their card?

No, if someone wants you to pick up an item being held for them, they must give you their card to present to check out the item for them.

10. Does the Library offer fax service?

No, FAX service is not available at the library. We suggest you look in the yellow pages of your phone book under "FAX transmission service" for a current listing of those businesses offering this service. Call ahead to confirm current equipment availability and pricing.

11. Is internet access avialable at the Library?

Internet access is available both at Main and Grand Ave. libraries. Please review our Internet and Computer Use policy.

The Library also offers wireless internet access for patrons with properly equiped laptop computers.

In addition, our libraries offer one-on-one beginning Internet classes by appointment. Instruction in Spanish is available at the Grand Avenue Branch Library. Instructors introduce patrons to the web, demonstrate many useful & entertaining sites, and provide assistance in setting up an email account.

12. Do you have Spanish books in your collection?

Yes, at the Grand Avenue Branch Library. You will find a large collection of materials for both children & adults, including books, magazines and newspapers, music CDs, DVDs, and material to assist in learning English or preparing for the citizenship exam. In addition, Grand Avenue Library also features a collection of classic Mexican movies. Se habla español.

13. How do I get a job at the Library?

Most positions are listed as openings occur. For hourly positions, recruitments are usually done in house. For page positions a test is given the 4th Thurs, in April and October @ 7 pm in the Main Library Auditorium. A Library Clerk test is given as needed. Watch for announcements on this web site and in the library. The test scheduled for October 2009 has been cancelled.

14. How do I submit comments about materials in the public library?

Comments regarding library materials may be submitted to the Library using the Patron Comment on Library Materials form. The form may be filled out online using the link below, or submitted at any of the Library's service desks or mailed to South San Francisco Public Library, 840 West Orange Avenue, South San Francisco, CA 94080. Comment on Library Materials