The City Hall building will be closed to the general public on Fridays from June 6, 2025 through August 29, 2025. San Rafael Community Centers, Libraries, Al Boro Parking Services, and all Public Safety services will remain open and maintain normal Friday hours.

   
Downtown Library

Funding for Library Services

< Library & Recreation Funding for Library Services
Library & Recreation Department
(415) 485-3333
recreation@cityofsanrafael.org

Overview

The City of San Rafael is committed to providing a vibrant hub for learning, connection, and community engagement through its public libraries. As part of the City of San Rafael’s Library and Recreation Department, the San Rafael Public Library is predominately funded through the City’s General Fund and voter-approved Special Library Services parcel tax. 

The Special Library Services parcel tax was originally passed by voters in 2010 to maintain and improve San Rafael Public Library operations, services, programs, facilities, equipment, and materials, as well as to help with the City’s long-term goal of setting aside funds for necessary library facility improvements. In 2016, voters renewed the Special Library Services parcel tax. The renewed parcel tax limited expenditures to support library operations, programs, services, materials, and equipment, excluding library facilities and infrastructure as an approved expenditure.  

The current voter-approved library funding measure generates approximately $1,250,000 annually or about one-third of the library’s operational budget. This revenue funds library operations, programs, services, and equipment, including: 

  • 22% of the Library’s permanent library positions, including librarians, library assistants, and other support staff.  
  • 60% of temporary staff expenses. Library temporary staff play a critical role in maintaining evening and weekend hours.  
  • 65% of the Library’s physical collections budget and 100% of its digital collections budget.  
  • A wide range of programs and services for all ages, including classes, story times, workshops, and events for preschoolers, school-age children, teens, adults, and seniors.  
  • Expanded outreach, programs, and partnerships with San Rafael schools, students, and educators. 

Important Links

Senior Exemptions

If you are 65 years of age or older by July 1 of the tax year, and own and occupy a single-family residence in San Rafael, you can file a tax exemption application for the Special Library Services Parcel Tax (must be filed on or before June 1). Print out a Measure D Senior Exemption Application form. 

News and Updates

Stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements related to library programs, services, and operations. Additionally, visit the Library’s events page for a complete list of upcoming programs and events.

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