The 30 Best California public libraries in California

The Scotts Valley Community Theater Guild is a community group dedicated to providing a centrally located and affordable venue for theater and community events in Scotts Valley, California. Located at 251 Kings Village Road, the institution has transformed the space next to the Scotts Valley Library into a 284-seat Cultural & Performing Arts Center. With the help of passionate volunteers who believe in the power of theater, the guild strives to bring the magic of live performances to the local area.

Palms Recreation Center, located at 2950 Overland Avenue in Los Angeles, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a variety of programs and activities for the community. The center features the Palms Park Children’s Center, an auditorium, picnic area, playground, outdoor basketball courts, and the Palms Rancho-Park Library. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The center is closed on Sundays. The Palms Park Children’s Center Preschool program provides a multicultural experience for children, with a staff to child ratio of 1:8 or smaller. Picnic permits are available for rental, with restrictions on group size and equipment. Youth sports leagues and day camp programs are also offered for children of various ages. Class registration can be done online or in person, with a variety of classes available. The center welcomes persons with disabilities and offers reasonable accommodations with prior arrangements. Please consult with a physician before enrolling in any physically demanding class.

Barnes Park is a popular tourist attraction located in Monterey Park, California. This 11-acre park is situated at 350 South Mc Pherrin Avenue and offers a wide range of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The park features a community center, basketball gym, amphitheater, sheltered picnic pavilion, lighted softball field, tennis and pickleball courts, a fitness court, and a children's play area. Barnes Park is conveniently located within walking distance of city hall, the fire department, and the library. Picnic facilities are available for reservations, making it a perfect spot for gatherings and events. Visit Barnes Park for a fun and relaxing day out in the heart of Monterey Park.

Located at 101 Pacific Avenue in Long Beach, California, Lincoln Park is the oldest park in the city, established since 1880. After undergoing construction for the new Long Beach Civic Center, the park reopened in February 2022 as the final component of the downtown area. With a budget of $19.5 million funded through a Public Private Partnership, the park offers a range of amenities including a universally-accessible playground, a dog park with designated areas for small and large dogs, fitness equipment, a synthetic turf sports field, a skate park, and more. The park also features a Lincoln Penny installation, a Lincoln Statue, and various Discovery Zones for learning and exploration. Residents and community members were involved in the development of the park, providing feedback on events, programming, and activities they would like to see. Additionally, free group recreation activities are offered at Lincoln Park, including fitness classes, movies in the park, and family game nights.

Ford Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 955 Parkford Drive in Redlands, California, United States. This park is part of the Parks Division, which maintains 18 established parks spanning over 253 acres of land, as well as median islands along city streets. The park offers a variety of amenities, including picnic and playground facilities, nature trails, open grassy areas, and sports fields. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful duck pond, lighted tennis courts, and the Redlands Dog Park within the 27-acre park. Additionally, Ford Park is home to the A. K. Smiley Public Library, the Lincoln Shrine, and the Redlands Bowl outdoor amphitheater. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, Ford Park is a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.

Shirley Ferretti Park is a beautiful green space located at 601 Circuit Drive in Roseville, California, United States. As part of the Roseville Parks, Recreation & Libraries department, the park is dedicated to providing top-notch services and resources to the community of over 150,000 residents. The council-manager form of government ensures that the park is well-managed and serves the needs of the people. Roseville is known for its thriving business community, with small and large businesses finding success in the city. The park is ideally located, offering excellent services, competitive costs, and long-range planning. The educated and growing population of Roseville ensures a bright future for the city.

The Maidu Community Center, located at 1550 Maidu Drive in Roseville, California, is a hub for community services and resources. As part of the council-manager form of government in Roseville, the center aims to serve the 150,000 residents of the city. Roseville is known for its business-friendly environment, top-notch services, and educated population. The Roseville Parks, Recreation & Libraries department has been recognized as a finalist for the National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management. While they may not have won this year, they are dedicated to continue working towards bringing the grand prize home to Roseville in the future.

The Humboldt County Historical Society, located at 703 8th Street in Eureka, California, is a renowned institution dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of the region. With over 65,000 photographs, historic business records, maps, and criminal ledgers, the Society serves as a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts. Founded over fifty years ago by a group of community members passionate about preserving local history, the Society now boasts a membership of over two thousand individuals who support its mission. The Society's research center offers original documents and research materials to the public, ensuring that valuable resources remain accessible and protected for future generations. In addition to its archival collections, the Society publishes a quarterly magazine, the Humboldt Historian, and maintains a reference library with historical books and oral histories.

The Christian Science Reading Room, located at 1301 State Street in Santa Barbara, California, offers a peaceful and welcoming space for study, reflection, and prayer. Visitors can browse and purchase Bibles, Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures, and other works by Mary Baker Eddy in various languages. The Reading Room features a variety of books, periodicals, and audio materials for all ages. Designed by renowned architect Kem Weber in the mid-century modern style, the building boasts a distinctive red tile roof, curved lines, and a unique corner entrance. The interior, also designed by Weber, features black walnut paneling, acoustical plaster, and study carrels for quiet reflection. The rear garden room includes a ceramic floor and a drip fountain, creating a serene atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

The Christian Science Church & Reading Room in Ventura, California, is a welcoming institution that serves as a book store, church, library, place of worship, and store all in one. Located at 469 North Victoria Avenue, the institution offers a variety of services to the community. You are invited to attend church services either in-person or via Zoom, where you can participate in Bible-based Sunday School classes for children. The institution also hosts a yearly healing talk featuring speakers from the Christian Science Board of Lectureship of the First Church of Christ, Scientist, Boston. These talks are open to the public, and no RSVP is required. You can view upcoming events on Facebook and bring your friends and family along.

The Long Now Foundation, located in San Francisco, California, is a nonprofit institution established in 01996 with a mission to foster long-term thinking. They encourage imagination at the timescale of civilization, focusing on the next and last 10,000 years, which they refer to as the "long now." The foundation aims to help individuals become good ancestors and preserve possibilities for the future. One of the notable projects of The Long Now Foundation is the construction of an immense mechanical monument, known as The Clock, which is being installed in a mountain in west Texas. This clock is designed to keep accurate time for the next 10,000 years, serving as a symbol of our connection to the distant future. The Clock features specially-designed dials and a chime generator, created in collaboration with Brian Eno, that can produce over 3.5 million unique bell chime sequences for each day it is visited.

The Peninsula Community Center, located at 3623 Jefferson Avenue in Redwood City, California, is a multifaceted institution offering gym facilities, health programs, and educational opportunities. The center prides itself on building strong personal connections through sports and fitness, creating a community where individuals feel known and valued by name. With group exercise classes, tennis courts, swimming pools, and family activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at PCC. Recently, the center has added four new videos to their On-Demand library, providing members with even more options for staying active and healthy. The center also offers a safe and upbeat environment for employees, making it a valuable resource for both fitness and friendship. Multiple parking lots are available for both members and non-members, ensuring convenient access to all that the center has to offer. Visit the Peninsula Community Center to make the most of your time and become part of a welcoming community dedicated to health and wellness.

The Historic Rios-Caledonia Adobe, located at 700 Mission Street in San Miguel, California, is a museum and tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the past. Built in 1835 as a home for the overseer of Mission lands, this well-preserved site is situated on the old mission trail between San Francisco and Los Angeles. Visitors can explore the original Inn and Stagecoach stop, now converted into a museum and small gift shop, as well as a unique history research library added in 1930. The grounds, maintained by San Luis Obispo County Parks, feature picnic sites and restrooms for visitors to enjoy. Designated as a California Historical Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Rios-Caledonia Adobe is supported by the non-profit organization Friends of the Adobes. Volunteers play a key role in maintaining the site and helping visitors make the most of their experience. To visit this historical gem, simply take the San Miguel off-ramp exit from Highway 101.

Oak View Park and Resource Center is a vibrant community hub located at 555 Mahoney Avenue in Oak View, California. This institution offers a unique blend of library services and outdoor recreational opportunities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. The park surrounding the center provides a serene setting for picnics, outdoor activities, and nature walks. Inside, the library offers a wide range of resources, including books, computers, and educational programs for all ages. Whether you're looking to relax in the park or expand your knowledge at the library, Oak View Park and Resource Center has something for everyone.

Nela Luken Park at The Village Center is a beautiful park located at 2350 Pleasant Grove Boulevard in Roseville, California. As part of the larger Roseville community, the park is a hub of activity and a place where residents can come together to enjoy the outdoors. With a council-manager form of government in place, the city of Roseville is dedicated to providing top-notch services to its 150,000 residents. Roseville Parks, Recreation & Libraries is a finalist for the prestigious National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, showcasing the city's commitment to long-range planning, resource management, and community engagement. While not bringing home the Grand Plaque this year, Roseville is honored to be recognized as one of the top four finalists in its population class.

VR PLACE is a cutting-edge virtual reality institution located at 1815 Hawthorne Boulevard in Redondo Beach, California. Step into a world of immersive experiences and top-of-the-line technology that will transport you to new dimensions. Our state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of virtual reality games, simulations, and experiences for all ages. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the world of VR, VR PLACE has something for everyone. Come visit us and explore the endless possibilities of virtual reality!

Civic Center Park is a beautiful and picturesque park located at 100 Civic Center Drive in Newport Beach, California. This park is a popular tourist attraction known for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor activities in this well-maintained park. With its convenient location and peaceful ambiance, Civic Center Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind while taking in the natural beauty of Newport Beach.

Mitchell Grove is a renowned educational institution located at 4555 Mitchell Road in the picturesque city of Eureka, California, United States. With a commitment to excellence in education, Mitchell Grove offers a wide range of academic programs and extracurricular activities to nurture the intellectual, social, and emotional growth of its students. The institution boasts a beautiful campus with state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty members, and a supportive community that ensures a holistic learning experience for all students. Whether you are looking to pursue higher education or enhance your skills, Mitchell Grove is the perfect place to achieve your academic goals.

Mission Bungalows is a unique lodging institution located at 4081 Mission Inn Avenue in Riverside, California. Inspired by historic Spanish Bungalow living spaces, our accommodations are surrounded by a beautiful native California wildflower garden where you can observe and enjoy the local wildlife. Situated in downtown Riverside, Mission Bungalows is in close proximity to popular attractions such as the Fox Theater, Riverside Public Library, The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Food Lab, Convention Center, and The Cheech. Additionally, we are just a short drive away from the University of California, Riverside.

The Autry Museum of the American West is a renowned museum located in Los Angeles, California, United States. Situated at 4700 Western Heritage Way, the museum is a popular tourist attraction that showcases the rich history and diverse cultures of the American West. Visitors can explore exhibits highlighting the art, artifacts, and stories of the region, offering a unique and educational experience for all ages. With its engaging displays and interactive programs, the Autry Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and heritage of the American West.

Welcome to Bella Capri Inn & Suites, a luxury boutique lodging in the heart of Camarillo, California. Our beautiful guest rooms and suites are designed to accommodate guests visiting Camarillo, offering true hospitality from the moment you arrive. Located at 2050 Ventura Boulevard, our quaint boutique hotel is conveniently situated in Old Town Camarillo, near California State University Channel Islands and the Studio Channel Islands Camarillo Art Center. At Bella Capri Inn & Suites, we offer signature services and amenities to ensure a comfortable and safe stay. Enjoy sumptuous breakfast and lunch at our on-site restaurant, the Old Town Cafe, or take advantage of our fitness center, business center, and complimentary WiFi. Our property is 100% non-smoking and features local newspapers, private check-in and check-out, and multilingual staff.

NextStage Productions is a creative arts institution located at 826 Bay Avenue, Capitola, California, United States. Our mission is to engage, educate, and enrich the lives of active adults 50 and their communities through creative arts experiences. We believe in the transformative power of creative expression for self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. Our programs range from empowering students through storytelling to helping seniors reclaim their dignity through creative expression. We also offer health and wellness programs, including classes for people living with Parkinson's disease. Join us for our upcoming benefit for Veteran's Village on May 11 at St. Andrew Church Patio in Aptos. All are welcome to attend. For more information, please call 408-357-0640 or email info@NextStageSantaCruz.org. We also have upcoming events at Capitola Library, Mid-County Senior Center, and Downtown Santa Cruz Public Library. Our Taiko Drumming class is free for students and care providers, funded by NextStage Productions and donations.

Holocaust Museum LA, located at 100 The Grove Drive in Los Angeles, California, is a museum dedicated to educating the public about the Holocaust and its impact on society. This institution serves as a library, museum, and tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to learn about this dark period in history. Public tours led by knowledgeable docents are available on Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 pm. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm every day of the week. For inquiries, visitors can email the museum at various addresses depending on their needs, such as general inquiries, tours, student and teacher programs, donations, volunteering, public events, and artifact donations. For press inquiries, please contact Jim Yeager at jim@breakwhitelight.com or 818-264-6812. Visit Holocaust Museum LA to learn, remember, and honor the victims and survivors of the Holocaust.

The San Marcos Civic Center is a vibrant hub of community activity located at 1 Civic Center Drive in San Marcos, California. This modern facility serves as the administrative center for the city government and offers a variety of services and resources for residents. With its sleek design and spacious layout, the Civic Center is a popular gathering place for meetings, events, and public gatherings. Visitors can enjoy beautiful landscaping, outdoor seating areas, and convenient amenities like a public library and recreational facilities. Whether you're attending a city council meeting, checking out a book from the library, or simply enjoying the scenery, the San Marcos Civic Center is a welcoming destination for all.

Dutton Flats is a prestigious institution located at 208 West 3rd Street in Santa Rosa, California, United States. Known for its exceptional academic programs and state-of-the-art facilities, Dutton Flats offers a diverse range of courses and opportunities for students to excel in their chosen field of study. The institution prides itself on fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment, where students are encouraged to explore their passions and reach their full potential. With a dedicated faculty and staff, Dutton Flats is committed to providing a top-tier education that prepares students for success in their future careers.

Burbank Heights & Orchard Seni is a senior community located at 7777 Bodega Avenue in Sebastopol, California. This community is specifically designed for individuals aged 62 and over, as well as those with disabilities. Nestled in the heart of wine country, Burbank Orchards offers a peaceful and scenic setting for retirement living. Situated on 16 acres next to Burbank Heights and the Luther Burbank Farm, Burbank Orchards was generously donated by the Burbank Family to provide much-needed affordable housing in Sonoma County. Residents can enjoy hiking trails, lush landscaping, and a close proximity to shopping, medical facilities, and public transit.

Pine Lane is a prestigious institution located at 1115 Sir Francis Drake Boulevard in Kentfield, California. This esteemed institution offers a wide range of educational programs and services to students of all ages. With a focus on academic excellence and personal growth, Pine Lane provides a supportive and enriching environment for students to thrive. The institution is known for its dedicated faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and commitment to helping students reach their full potential. Whether you are looking to further your education or pursue a new career path, Pine Lane is the perfect place to achieve your goals.

Ecology House is a unique institution located at 375 Catalina Boulevard in San Rafael, California. It is the first HUD funded apartment building specifically designed for individuals with extreme environmental sensitivities. Situated next to the beautiful San Francisco Bay, Ecology House offers residents the cleanest possible air in an urban setting. Conveniently located near shopping centers, public transportation, and major highways, Ecology House provides a peaceful and environmentally-friendly living environment. The community features landscaped courtyards and gardens, as well as a community room with a library for residents to enjoy.

Dimond Heights Apartments is a premier residential community located at 3557 Lincoln Avenue in Oakland, California. Our luxurious apartment complex offers spacious and modern living spaces with stunning views of the surrounding area. Residents can enjoy a wide range of amenities including a fitness center, swimming pool, and outdoor BBQ area. With easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Dimond Heights Apartments is the perfect place to call home in the vibrant city of Oakland. Come experience upscale living at Dimond Heights Apartments.

Casa De Vilarrasa is an independent living apartment complex located at 28 Riverhill Drive in Benicia, California. With a total of 80 units, all consisting of one bedroom, Casa De Vilarrasa offers amenities such as a refrigerator, electric stove, community room, and on-site laundry. The complex is conveniently located near a grocery store, public library, senior center, community center, and post office, all within walking distance. The Housing Authority is currently accepting applications for Casa De Vilarrasa, with interested parties able to complete a pre-application form and submit it to the Wait List Benicia Housing Authority at 28 Riverhill Drive, Benicia, CA 94510. Applicants must have an annual income of 80% or less of the area median income to be eligible for consideration.