Visit Our eBook Stops Around the County!

San Mateo County Libraries is excited to unveil free eBook Stops, making thousands of eBooks available in just a few easy steps with a wireless device. Simply visit an eBook Stop, connect to its free Wi-Fi and our webpage, and then begin browsing popular titles available in English and Spanish.

If you’re new to reading books online, eBook Stops are a great way to try them out. You don’t need a library card, mobile app, data plan or Wi-Fi connection to read these eBooks. There are no holds or wait times, so you can begin reading immediately or save the book in your browser to read from home. The eBook Stop includes popular adult, teen, and children's titles in numerous genres. The collection is constantly updating, so be sure to come back after your first visit to browse new eBooks!

How it Works

eBook Stops are powered by a small device that generates its Wi-Fi network. When connected to its network, you can download and read eBooks curated by San Mateo County Libraries. All you need is a mobile device (smartphone, tablet, or laptop) that can connect to a network and a few minutes to browse and download your books.  

Here’s how to get started: 

  1. Visit one of our locations with an eBook Stop. 
  2. Look for the blue “eBook Stop” signs.
  3. Access the Wi-Fi connections on your phone or tablet. 
  4. Select the network called eBook Stop from the list of available networks on your device. 
  5. Visit smcl.org/eBookStop, opens a new window in your browser, accept the Terms and Conditions, and tap “Go” to start reading.  
  6. You can also download the book to your browser by clicking “Offline Access” at the top of the menu on the site. You will also get a message while you’re browsing through your book with instructions on downloading it and bookmarking it in your browser. This way, you can take the eBook with you after you’ve checked it out from the eBook Stop! 

Where to Find an eBook Stop Library 

Currently, we have eBook Stops at our library locations and community partner locations listed below. Look for the blue signs with instructions on how to get started! We will be adding more locations in months to come, including locations outside of our libraries within the community, to reduce barriers to reading! 

Related FAQs

  • Yes! All of our locations are open for you to come inside. Visit our Locations page for a list of locations and hours.

  • If you’re waiting for an appointment, headed to the park, or taking a break at work, eBook Stops are a great way to help you pass the time! Browse, check out, and download an eBook to your mobile device in a matter of minutes and take it with you to go!

    eBook Stops are a small network device that generates its own Wi-Fi network and connects to an eBook collection curated by San Mateo County Libraries. When connected to the network, you can download and read eBooks in on your phone or tablet without the need for an Internet connection, an additional app or a library card.

  • Yes. We will be offering more hours beginning on Tuesday, March 16 with Curbside Services, opens a new window available Tuesdays through Saturdays, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. When we are safely able to fully reopen to the public, North Fair Oaks Library will have its weekly service hours increased from 50 to 60 hours. We’ll be seeking input on establishing new hours and feedback on services from the community soon.

    Sí. Ofreceremos más horas a partir del martes 16 de marzo con servicio en la acera, opens a new window disponible desde el martes a sábado, de 11:00 AM a 4:00 PM. Cuando podamos reabrir completamente al público, Fair Oaks Branch Library tendrá su horario de servicio aumentado de 50 a 60 horas. Pronto buscaremos información sobre el establecimiento de nuevas horas y comentarios sobre los servicios de la comunidad.

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