In its historic setting across from the Capitol, and its modern facility across the street, the California State Library provides a sense of place that is both a mirror and memory of California history. While the State Library and its services continue to be funded by the state and federal government, competition for funds has become keen in recent years.

Like all public institutions today, the State Library must look beyond tax revenue to accomplish its objectives. To that end, the California State Library Foundation was established in 1982, providing private support for the State Library’s programs and goals. The Foundation is a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit, public charity governed by an independent Board of Directors. The membership of the Foundation includes over 500 members, with over 100 lifetime memberships.

Recent Accomplishments of the Foundation:

The following demonstrates the many ways in which the Foundation and your membership serves as an active partner with this dynamic and multifaceted institution:

— Purchases for the Braille and Talking Book Library essential equipment.

— Sponsors Saturday hours at the Sutro Library, the largest genealogy collection west of Salt Lake City.

— Publishes an informative and attractive periodical, the California State Library Foundation Bulletin featuring State Library services and collections.

— Publishes books including a facsimile edition of the 1851 Sacramento City Directory with a history of Sacramento by Mead B. Kibbey. See list of current publications.

— Sponsors the Governor's Book Fund to purchase badly needed books for school libraries.

— Collaborates with the California Research Bureau in obtaining grant support for its many valuable programs that shape public policy .

— Obtained for the Library notable works of art including commissioning a painting by Gregory Kondos for the Braille & Talking Book Library, acquired a Maynard Dixon painting and mural, and purchased a bronze statute of a Chinese railroad worker.

— Obtained for the Library a superb copy of William Morris' celebrated Kelmscott Chaucer in celebration of the Library's 150th anniversary.

— Purchases for the Sutro Library valuable U.S. local history books, directories, and atlases.

— Sponsored exhibitions of State Library treasures including exhibitions at the Crocker Art Museum, Sacramento Public Library, and State Capitol Museum.

— Co-published with the California Center for the Book Letters on Reading.

Links to the California State Library

Connect to the powerful resources and services of the California State Library:

California State Library Web Site

Online Catalog

Gold Rush Exhibit