Our physical spaces—including 13 libraries, bookmobile, makermobile and library outposts—are designed to serve as welcoming, community gathering places where everyone belongs. Shaped by community input and guided by our shared values and Strategic Plan, we enhance and update our facilities to create inviting, flexible environments that support a lifetime of learning and exploration at San Mateo County Libraries.
Atherton Library Children’s Garden
Status: Construction underway, anticipated completion Spring 2026
Construction is underway at the Atherton Library on a new 6,500 square foot Children’s Garden. Shaped by community input in partnership with the Town of Atherton and the Friends of the Atherton Library, the garden was designed by the Miller Company and is being built by Selway Construction. The garden will include nature-based play features and accessible pathways designed to inspire exploration and imaginative play.
Bookmobile
Status: Fabrication underway, anticipated arrival Summer 2026
Our popular Bookmobile is getting a full replacement and upgrade to better serve our communities. The next generation mobile library will include enhanced sustainability and accessibility features and emphasize bringing welcoming library experiences and services to where people already gather, raising awareness of library services, strengthen community partnerships, and reaching residents who may not regularly have access to our use a library.
New East Palo Alto Library Update
Status: Planning and funding exploration for Civic Commons is underway
The City of East Palo Alto is moving forward with plans for a new library, which will be part of a Civic Civic Commons development, consolidating key civic functions on a single site. The proposed four-story, 100,000 square foot building would include a new library, community space, City Hall, police station and recreational facilities. The proposed library includes approximately 24,000 square feet of dedicated library space, an outdoor children’s area, and shared spaces that expand access to civic and community resources.
Foster City Makerspace
Status: Design nearing completion, bidding anticipated in Spring 2026
Progress is underway on the Foster City Makerspace, guided by community input and our Makerspace Master Plan.The project will transform a 660-square-foot teen room into a flexible, technology-rich environment that supports creativity and learning for all ages. The design, developed with community input and collaboraton with Brad Cox Architect, is in its final stages.
North Fair Oaks Library Restroom Project
Status: Construction underway, anticipated completion February 2026
A new bathroom is being added to the North Fair Oaks Library. The project is funded through a combination of a California State Library Building Forward grant and County funds. This improvement addresses a long-standing accessibility issue by providing an interior, family-accessible restroom dedicated to the library.
Pacifica Sharp Park and Sanchez
Status: Exploration of funding options
The City of Pacifica continues to work on a comprehensive plan to modernize its two library facilities. Conceptual plans approved by the City include a new full-service Sharp Park Library and a renovated Sanchez Library. A Library Advisory Committee continues to meet and explore funding and implementation options. The first Library Outpost opened at the Sanchez Library, expanding access while broader building efforts remain in the planning phase.
Pescadero Library Outpost
Status: Design nearing completion, permitting in 2026, construction to begin in 2027
San Mateo County Parks is developing a new community space in the heart of downtown Pescadero. The project is intended to create a welcoming gathering place for residents and visitors, with picnic areas, public restrooms and a Library Outpost.
San Carlos Library Makerspace Plans
Status: Contractor selection, anticipated construction to begin Spring 2026
Significant advancements are underway for the new makerspace at the San Carlos Library. The 1,000-square-foot space on the library's second floor will serve as a hub for innovation, hands-on learning, and collaboration. Designed by WRNS Studio with community and stakeholder input, this new space will provide community members of all ages with access to state-of-the-art tools and technology, empowering them to explore ideas, experiment and bring ideas to life. This highly anticipated project is supported in part by a generous donation from the Friends of the San Carlos Library.