Hours, location, contact information
What are the library hours?
Our hours of operation are Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Where are you located?
The library is located at the Thoreau Center in the back of Presidio Building 1016, at Lincoln Blvd. and Torney Ave. Directions to the Thoreau Center are available here
How do I contact the library?
Our email address is library@thoreau.org
Borrowing Whole Earth Library materials
Who may borrow from the library?
Anyone who works for an organization in the Thoreau Center for Sustainability, or who works or lives in the Presidio of San Francisco can borrow materials from the Whole Earth Library.
How do I become a member?
By filling out a membership form and returning it to the library. Membership forms are also available in the library
How long may library materials be checked out?
Items may be checked out for three weeks, and renewed twice. Items may be renewed in person or online through your account page. Reference items may be checked out for shorter periods of time, generally for two hours. You may check out up to ten items.
Where can I return library materials?
Materials you have checked out should be returned to the library during regular hours. Materials that you have used in the library but haven’t checked out can be left for pickup. Do not reshelve the books. Library workers will reshelve the books for you. Reference materials must be returned to the library.
Getting help with research
Where do I go if I need help while visiting the library?
If you need any help finding a book or other item, or need any quick guidance on your visit to the Whole Earth Library our librarian at the main desk will be happy to help you.
Can I make an appointment for help with my research?
Yes, please contact the library with your request.
Supporting the Whole Earth Library
How can I donate an item to the collection?
Feel free to drop it off at the library or mail it to the Thoreau Center. A list of items in which we are interested is available on our Powell’s Books wish list.
Other / General
What is your cell phone policy?
Library users may use their cell phone as long as it is not a disturbance to others. As a courtesy, please set the ringer to vibrate or off while in the library. Text messaging is ok anywhere.
Can I eat or drink in the library?
Not at this time
Can I suggest a book for the library collection?
Yes, please contact the library with your suggestion.
