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Literary Programs

Author Talks

From emerging to award-winning authors, Mechanics’ Institute curates a year-round showcase bringing literary enthusiasts together.

Book Groups

Our seminar series led by esteemed scholars explore the legacies of influential authors such as Marcel Proust, Toni Morrison, and James Baldwin. Book groups bring a community of readers together over topics of member interest including mysteries, world literature, translated works, and cookbooks.

Interactive Writers’ Groups

Dedicated to supporting writers at all stages of their craft, our programs offer support and encouragement through interactive workshops.  Many Mechanics’ Institute members, past and present, are notable authors and poets.

Cultural Programs – Building Community

Be inspired by award-winning and emerging authors, chamber and jazz music, writing workshops, book groups and much more.

Music & Film Programs

Live Music Performances

Enjoy chamber and jazz music and talks by celebrated authors in a theater-like setting in our historical library.

Film Screenings & Discussions

Mechanics’ Institute provide a welcoming space to watch and discuss classic films, creating a forum for film enthusiasts.

Upcoming Author Talks & Panels

Sep 4

A Greek Tragedy with author Jeanne Carstensen and Michael Montgomery

September 4, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Read more Register here
Sep 15

Modernism and the Reinvention of San Francisco: An Architecture + the City Panel

September 15, 2025 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM

Read more Register Here
Sep 25

The Poet and the Silk Girl with author Satsuki Ina and NPR's Here and Now host Deepa Fernandes

September 25, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Read more Register here
Oct 2

Everything is Now: The 1960s New York Avant-Garde with J. Hoberman

October 2, 2025 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Read more Register here

Notable Authors at Mechanics’ Institute

We've recently hosted Pulitzer Prize winners, Nobel laureates, and esteemed literary figures.

Tommy Orange

2019 Pulitzer Prize Nominee

There There
Wandering Stars

Maxine Hong Kingston

National Humanities Medal

Tripmaster Monkey
I Love a Broad Margin to My Life

Viet Thanh Nguyen

2016 Pulitzer Prize

The Sympathizer
To Save and to Destroy

Site photography by Greg Habiby

What’s Inside

Author Talks

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Book Groups

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Writers' Groups

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Movies at Mechanics'

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Music at Mechanics'

Explore Music at Mechanics'

Lectures and Seminars

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