Welcome to the California State Library

Photo of a woman handing another woman a book.

For Californians

The California State Library provides a variety of services to all Californians. We are here to serve.

For State Employees

The California State Library empowers the people of the nation's most diverse and populous state by providing credible information services to all Californians.

For Library Workers

The State Library supports California's libraries through a variety of programs and services.

For Students and Teachers

The California State Library provides students with a variety of resources to learn about the complicated and dynamic history of The Golden State.

For Researchers

Our librarians have developed a number of resources to help you research just about any topic from the latest science and technology to your personal family history.

For Policymakers

From books and electronic databases related to public policy to information about grants, the State Library is a leading source of impartial information for California policymakers.

In the Spotlight

Library Infrastructure Grant Program

The budget signed by Gov. Newsom for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021 contains the single largest investment California has ever made in local libraries. Chief among the investments is $439 million in one-time funds to create an equity-focused grant program administered by the State Library to support life-safety and critical maintenance and facilities projects. A statement from the State Library about the program.

First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom reads to a room full of children.

The First Partner's Summer Book Club

Join California First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom and the California State Library for stories this Summer. Summer programs help keep kids engaged and healthy during the summer months, ensuring they return to school in the fall ready to learn. Visit the State Library’s First Partner’s Summer Book Club page to enjoy storytimes with the First Partner and special guests and find your local library’s summer programs!

Exterior photo of the California State Library headquarters.

Make An Appointment to Visit Us

We welcome in-person visits by appointment. Make an appointment to come visit us!

California Grants Portal

The California Grants Portal is your one destination to find all grants and loans offered on a competitive or first-come basis by California state agencies.

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Protecting California's Cultural Collections

California is home to one of the most diverse and expansive cultural collections, spread across thousands of institutions who serve as the state’s collective memory. In 2020, the California State Library and its cultural heritage partners embarked on the California Cultural Collection Protection Survey to improve the state’s understanding of its collections.