Alameda Libraries

Photo by Ian Wilson

“Literature is my Utopia,” said Helen Keller.

If books are truly the doorways to the world, then Alameda contains the keys to every place on earth. They can be found nestled in the pages of the books lining the shelves at the Alameda Free Library. Books aren’t all you’ll find in Alameda’s libraries, however. Adult literacy programs, children’s programs, and community outreach are all intricately intertwined in Alameda’s library system. Alameda boasts four libraries in the city, and even more in nearby Oakland. The Alameda Free Library has two branches, one located at 2200 A Central Ave, and one at 1550 Oak St. The Bay Farm Island Branch can be found at 3221 Mecartney Rd. , and the West End branch resides at 788 Santa Clara Ave.

Residents can use Alameda’s public libraries at no cost. Children under 16 must have a parent’s signature to obtain a library card, but any resident who can print his or her name is old enough to have a card. Photo identification and proof of your address are required to apply for a library card.

Alameda Reads is an adult literacy program offered by the Alameda Free Library since 1985. The program is supported through donations and state and local grants given to the library. It is estimated that over 5,000 adults in Alameda have poor literacy skills. The Alameda Reads program aims to help adults improve their reading and writing through a volunteer tutoring program. If you would like to volunteer with the Alameda Reads program, you will need to fill out a simple form, and return it to any Alameda Library branch.

In addition to promoting literacy, Alameda libraries offer a website where you can check your account online, renew items, check due dates, and view other information about your account, such as whether you owe fines on overdue books. Other links include digital stories of California’s history, an e-Resources database of articles and information, an instant messaging reference service, live homework help, children’s services and information about volunteer opportunities.

Alameda residents enjoy one of the most modern and beautiful library systems in California. Studies show that kids who have regular access to books do better in school, exhibit stronger critical thinking skills, and the National Education Association reports that 26% of young children who are read to 3-4 times a week recognize all the letters of the alphabet, compared to 14% of children who aren’t read to.

Alameda’s libraries offer residents a chance to improve their children’s educations, expand their minds and volunteer to improve their communities. Community outreach programs include a Bookmobile, Adult literacy programs, services for the disabled, museum passes, teen services and youth literacy. Alameda is not just one of the most beautiful counties in California, its residents are among the most well-read as well. Alameda reads!