Blog

Need a book that is not in our collection? Have you tried to access an article online only to be blocked by a pricey paywall? As a member of the Mechanics’ Institute, you can borrow almost any book, or get a copy of an article from another library, using our Interlibrary Loan service. Interlibrary Loan, also known as ILL, allows the Library to borrow items from other participating libraries including the California State Library, libraries in the University of California system, and...

Beginning March 16th bundles of magazines will be available for purchase on the 3rd floor. Feel free to dig through the assorted collection of titles and buy as many as you can carry.

Each bundle is for sale at $2, $3, or $5 (+ tax) and there are no limits to the number you can take home.*

Sales are limited to those in tied bundles. No loose or individual issues will be sold.

*Due to the number of magazines availab...

The brain is a fascinating organ: some say it’s the seat of the soul, some think it’s more like a microprocessor, and others think of it as the motor of consciousness. This month, Mechanics’ Institute staff select books on the mind, the brain, and consciousness – the whys and wherefores of self-awareness.

Chris selects Moonwalking with Einstein : the art and science of remembering everything...

Saturday 2/28 (11:00am - 5:00pm) and Sunday 3/1 (11:00am - 4:00pm)

Join us at the Old Mint as more than sixty San Francisco organizations create "mini-museums" showcasing the diverse history of San Francisco's communities. In addition, there will be historic films, special programs, and more.

Click here for more information.