Petaluma Regional Library

Petaluma Library Reopening in August Following Modernization

The doors of the Petaluma Regional Library are set to reopen at 10 am on Monday, August 25, following an extensive modernization that blends fresh, functional upgrades with the building’s classic charm. The renovated library will be open seven days a week and invites visitors to explore vibrant new spaces for children and teens, private study pods and updated amenities designed to make the library more welcoming and accessible.

The Petaluma Mini Library is closed. Modified service at the Petaluma Regional Library will be available throughout August. The 24/7 BiblioBox smart locker will open in mid-August as well.

The BiblioBus mobile library will be at the library from 10 am to 1 pm on August 12, 14, 15, 18, 20, and 22.

• Pick up requested materials on hold
• Sign up for a library card!
• Access FREE WiFi!
• Checkout books in English and Spanish for all ages
• Black & white printing
• Summer Reading Challenge stickers and prize books
• Items can be returned 24/7 through the book drop at the Petaluma Library

Petaluma’s modernization efforts include: an open and welcoming entry; a reimagined children’s area; a teen area; private study pods; updated restrooms; carpet, furniture, lighting, shelving and paint; efficient and reorganized staff areas, a move for the Petaluma History Room to the ground floor; plus HVAC, electrical, and fire suppression system upgrades.

“The long-awaited modernization of the library is nearing completion, and people will be amazed how the changes enhance functionality and elegance while retaining the late 20th Century beauty of the interior,” Petaluma Regional Library Manager Diana Spaulding said. “The library staff eagerly anticipates welcoming the local community of readers (and pre-readers!) into the library to enjoy the expansive library collections, four small group and individual study rooms, and many tables powered for personal laptop use, among other improvements.”

When library buildings close, your 24/7 online library is always open. Download or stream anytime.

Petaluma Regional Library Advisory Board

The Petaluma Library Advisory Board advises the Sonoma County Library Commission on issues affecting Petaluma Regional Library. If you are interested in serving on a library advisory board, please contact your branch manager.

Friends of the Petaluma Library

The Friends of the Petaluma Library are an all-volunteer group that helps support Petaluma Regional Library.

About Petaluma Regional Library

Petaluma’s first library was an Odd Fellows Library established in 1858. By 1878, its ownership was transferred to the City of Petaluma as part of the Rogers Free Library Act and the library was relocated to the upper floor of City Hall.

In 1906, the Petaluma Library opened at Fourth and B Streets. The Carnegie library was designed by local architect Brainerd Jones and built from locally quarried stone. The building features the largest freestanding leaded glass dome in Northern California. With few changes through the decades, the building served as a Carnegie Free Library until 1976. In 1988, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is now the Petaluma Museum, a historical museum with a research library.

By the late 1950s, increased usage and limited space demonstrated the need for a larger facility with space to provide modern library services. Studies indicated that alternate solutions, such as enlarging the old building or opening a small east-side branch, would not be feasible. In three elections, bond proposals for a new library failed to get the needed two-thirds vote.

In 1973, as population and demand grew, the need for a new facility increased and a plan for a more centrally located building was developed. With the commitment by the city council and the county board of supervisors to allocate federal funds to cover half the cost, a bond issue for the balance was approved in a special election in 1974.

The new library, located at the corner of East Washington Street and Fairgrounds Drive, opened in 1976. The Petaluma Regional Library spans over 25,000 square feet and features exposed heavy timber trusses and natural wood finished walls. The library is constructed with brick-veneered walls and a copper roof. Several improvements have been made in recent years, including expansion of the Forum Room, and creation of a bookstore that is operated by the Friends of the Petaluma Library.

Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Petaluma Regional Library.

Please use this link to see teen volunteer opportunities.

Please use this link to download the volunteering app.

Information about volunteering at the Petaluma History Room can be found here: https://sonomalibrary.org/visit/locations/petalumahistory

For adult volunteering opportunities across Sonoma County Library, please visit the Volunteer page.

Printing and Copying

Printing and copying are available at your local library. Send your print jobs to the library using our ePrinting service, or print from one of the library’s computers.

The library offers up to $5 of free printing/copying per day per person. Use your library card to access this benefit! Additional printing/copying is $0.25 per page (black & white) and $0.50 per page (color).