OUR MISSION
Thank you to our donor family – all the individuals, corporate partners and foundations who have made and continue to make our beloved Library fully inclusive, enduringly resilient, and relentlessly innovative. Together, we are diverse team of advocates who share one thing in common: a deep appreciation for and love of our Library!
As a member of our donor family, you can count on us to stand by our values as we pursue our shared vision and mission for the future of San Mateo Public Library together. Note: the SMPLF only serves the three libraries in the City of San Mateo.
Our Values
We are guided by our values in everything we do:
Inclusivity | Innovation | Resilience
Our Vision
We share the San Mateo Public Library’s vision:
San Mateo is a resilient, innovative, and inclusive community that is knowledgeable and empowered, embracing the future while honoring the past.
Our Mission
The SMPLF builds a community of Library advocates and donors by amplifying the Library’s vision and inspiring pride in its accomplishments.
We provide financial support to the Library, enhancing its impact on our community and ensuring its long-term vitality, particularly in these areas:
children and teen programs
literacy programs
job seekers programs
tech lending library
cultural programming
capital projects
outreach and inclusion
Children and Teen Programs
Programs and services include Paws for Tales (where children improve their reading by reading aloud to therapy dogs), Bilingual English/Spanish Stories & Songs, parent presentations, and teacher resources.
"As a parent, the greatest gift I can give my kids is the joy of reading. The library provides a safe place where my kids can explore, engage and learn. My three boys love coming to the library!" Bea M, stay at home mom
Literacy Programs
Project Read is the Library’s adult literacy program, and teaches English reading, writing and communication skills.
Project Read trains volunteer tutors to work one-on-one or in small groups teaching adults the skills they need to participate and be successful in our community.
Job Seekers
Volunteers with experience in human resources, coaching and teaching support community members with their job searches, including online assistance, resume and cover letter writing, and application completion.
JobSeekers is an in-person, drop-in service. No appointment is necessary.
Tech Lending
Patrons are able to check out mobile WiFi units and laptops, directly addressing the community's Digital Divide.
Additionally, cutting-edge robotics kits, musical instruments, digital recording devices, coding education tools, and more are available to community!
Cultural Programming
The San Mateo Public Library offers art exhibits, music programs, author lectures, and book discussions.
Asian, Latino Iranian-American, Persian-American and African-American Library Advisory Committees support our richly diverse geographic region with the goal to build community and promote inclusion through information, education and entertainment.
Capital Projects
The Foundation was originally formed in 1996 as a part of a multi-faceted effort to finance and construct the Library's main branch.
We continue to partner with the Library—and other organizations— to facilitate this type of large-scale fundraising as capital needs arise.
Outreach and Inclusion
The San Mateo Public Library goes beyond its physical confines, actively engaging the community with outreach and inclusion programs. These initiatives bring literacy programs, cultural events, and vital resources directly to the community, ensuring access for all. Inclusion forms the bedrock of library services, promoting diversity, accessibility, and cultural relevance.