Book Drop

A unique feature of the San Mateo Public Library is their drive-up book drop. Library pages no longer have to maneuver bulky carts from the book drop into the library. The new automatic conveying system found in the library eliminates this unpleasant task. Patrons drive up to the book drop located in front of the library and items returned are then conveyed to the materials handling room, where they are pre-sorted. It is possible to view part of the system from the first level of the underground parking facility. The only restrictions to the system that are mentioned on the library website include being closed on holidays, magazines are not allowed and neither can donated books.

The change from earlier libraries is apparent with this labor saving technology.

Cafe

There is a cafe located on the fourth floor of the library. It offers coffee and other beverages, as well as sandwiches and pastries. The SMPL Main Branch has definitely followed the new trend in libraries, moving away from the traditional approach to a retail approach in attracting new customers.

Art Gallery Space

One of the unusual features of the library is the space it provides for displaying art. The first exhibit space is located on the first floor and is the hallway outside the main meeting room in the Library. There is a second space available along the cafe walls and the Teen Lounge. There is a Library Art Selection Committee (made up of members of the community and library staff) that meets twice a year. They select artwork that is representative of both the diversity of the community itself and offers different types of mediums. Artwork is exhibited for one month and can be available for sale if desired. The library website has a link providing guidelines and an application form.

The image above shows an Aragon High School photography exhibit in the Teen Lounge that was on display in February/March 2010.