Membership Benefits

Foundation members come from all walks of life.They include authors, historians, genealogists, teachers, students, researchers, political and community leaders, advertising professionals, designers and librarians, as well as citizens from all parts of California. They join for many reasons, both personal and professional. What they all have in common is a sense of purpose in supporting one of California’s great institutions, the California State Library. You too, can take advantage of the many benefits and privileges of Foundation membership, benefits like: Access to the State Library’s collection of over 6 million items. Each is ready for use by all Californians at the State Library in Sacramento and the Sutro Library in San Francisco. Library staff provide unparalleled service in helping you in your search for specific resources. Plus, you can access the collection from your library and from your computer through the State Library’s home page which provides information about electronic access to the State Library’s collections and services.

Borrowing Privileges

Foundation members who register for a California State Library borrower card can enjoy the following library use benefits:*

• Access to all CSL Subcription databases on-site at all CSL locations.
• Borrow up to 75 circulating items directly from all CSL locations (microfilm is limited to 12 reels at a time).
• Request that circulating CSL items be checked out to their account and made available for pick up by another individual they have authorized as a courier.
• Request CSL materials be pulled in advance and held for use in the library.

*some restrictions apply. 

The Quarterly Foundation Bulletin

Receive the quarterly Foundation Bulletin with information on new items in the collection, essays by noted California authors, updates on new learning services in California libraries, Foundation-sponsored exhibits, and public programs.

Limited Specials Editions

Sponsor level or higher memberships receive our annual limited special edition. These have a limited print run and a small amount are for sale through our website after the main distribution. For samples please see the Special Editions tab under Publications.

Discounts

Get discounts on selected Foundation publications.

Invitations to programs

Receive invitations to programs, exhibits, seminars and special State Library events around the state.

The Satisfaction

Get the satisfaction of playing a role in preserving an important part of California’s rich cultural heritage and supporting such invaluable programs as the Braille & Talking Book Library.

Targeting Your Contribution

You can pledge your financial support to specific programs of the Foundation or for use where your gift is needed most. Contributions may also be made in memory of a “loved one” or to honor the living. You may be confident that your contributions are never used for general operating costs of the California State Library.