Larkspur Library

I have been visiting libraries for over 50 years (my parents took me when I was only 4 — actually I think they were going to the library and I was brought along too, but I prefer to think that their weekly visits were in some way related to me). Larkspur’s library is simply one of my all-​time favorites. The staff is a bit eccentric, but that’s exactly what a good library needs — staff as interesting as the books on the shelves. I understand that the City wants to build a new library. To that idea I say — booooooooo. Long live the Larkspur library exactly where she stands.

There have been several times when I’ve tried to go the Larkspur Library and it has been closed for various non-​holiday related reasons. I almost feel like I have to call ahead even during their posted hours.
When I was successful in checking out a book I was forced to buy a brand new one when I returned it. They said there was evidence of water damage on the bottom ½ inch of the back cover. The Circulation Manager said that I could not repair the book or replace the book even with a brand new book from Amazon or anywhere else. She said the only think she would accept was cash for her to purchase a brand new book thru her own distributor which cost $ 30. Imagine if you scratched the back bumper on a rental car and you couldn’t pay for the damage or repair the damage or replace the bumper or replace the car. The only thing that the rental agency would accept was paying full price to the dealership for a brand new car to replace the used car that was scratched while you had the car. That sums up the Circulation Manager at the Larkspur Library. If you Google search you’ll see that this stance is unique to Bay Area libraries.
If you go to the Larkspur Library and find the library open, good luck when you return the book.

This is a tough one.
The Pros–
The building itself is impressive because its at least 100 years old so if you like older buildings and local history, check out the Larkspur library.
The décor tries to be cozy and inviting like you are sitting in Agatha Christies’ living room about to curl up with a good murder mystery.
Huge Dvd section
Childrens section — but it is kind of secluded and I would not feel comfortable leaving my kid in this area while I browsed for books especially because there is a door that goes from the outside to this kids area. Though it might be kept locked, I dont know.
OLD selection of books, yes this is a positive in *my* book I love the fact they have some old classic books. (They also have newer books, magazines and newspapers)
Cons–
Sometimes really weird people hang out here. I will not explain since I do not want to be identified by the librarians but there are sometimes like maybe homeless people (?) that hang out here reading a book. They make it very uncomfortable because they seem to resent other patrons presence and do things that are subtly hostile.
While huge the DVD section doesnt really have anything good.
The librarians are not too friendly. I am not sure why. Perhaps there is not enough sunlight in this building (it is kind of dark and gloomy) but they do always seem to be busy working.
The sit down and cozy up and read section is small making it hard to feel at easy when said crazy person (see point 1 under Cons) is hating on you.
So there you have it folks.

Larkspur Library is great. Small, yet always seems to have the book that I’m looking for. Tip: order the book online through MARINet Catalog and for $.50, you will have the book of your choice delivered to the library. Easy, convenient and economical. Sure saves money on those book club books!

Every Thursday at 9am they have a fantastic children’s story time. The read several books, listen to guitar music and sing along!
The library itself is cozy and inviting as are the librarians who work there.
Regular Hours
Monday-​Tuesday 10am-​9pm
Wednesday-​Thursday 10am-​7pm
Friday & Saturday 10am-​5pm
Closed on Sunday
Main number (415) 927‑5005
Children’s number (415) 927‑5134