All your questions about The Mill Valley Library, answered.

I walk into the Mill Valley Public Library at opening, on a mission to find a quiet, secluded spot to place my items. Before the noise. Before the crowds. I want to borrow a small area, like a bookmark holding my place—a tranquil spot to decompress and relax. Read.

Because it’s my first time here, I find myself torn between the desire to peacefully sit and immerse myself in silence (for a few moments) or fight the urge to venture off, investigate each room, peruse the bookshelves, and wander each aisle, curious as to what genres are available.

I quickly glance at a dozen (or so) larger-than-life bookcases in every direction (mistakenly thinking a particular section of literature will lure me in). The floor-to-ceiling windows, to my left, close to the entrance, intrigue me, but before I can head toward them, my attention diverts to a window wall, with glass doors attached.

Just past the wood-burning fireplace (not in use this particular morning), a wooden deck peeks out; the backdrop of cinnamon-colored tree trunks, topped with various shades of greenery, taunts me.

I step outside onto the sizeable deck, long wooden benches all available. This vantage point provides gorgeous, up-close views of a magical redwood forest.

Slanted, golden rays of sunlight warm me as they peek through towering trees. I breathe in the crisp, woodsy-scented air. Birds chirp. And I find the calm aesthetic I sought.

About Mill Valley Library

Approach the Mill Valley Library from the outside and the exterior walls may seem average. But the combination of the tallest windows I’ve ever seen at a library and the ornate beauty of second-growth redwoods leading the library path sets it apart.

Built in 1966 and renowned for its midcentury architectural features, the Mill Valley Public Library was recognized by the American Institute of Architects in 1969 [source]. A librarian informed me that the fixtures and furniture, handmade by Art and Tripp Carpenter, are original from the library’s initial build.

Books are packed in, row by row, lined up in metal shelves encased in wooden bookcases, tube lighting affixed inside or above. In the Main Reading Room, tall pendant lights hang down. The wood-burning fireplace and deck were built first, while the lower level, which includes the Lucretia Little History Room, was expanded in the 90s.

Spanning 27,000 square feet, the library’s collection includes over 115,000 physical books, audiobooks, DVDs, magazines, and newspapers (amongst other items). If you appreciate architecture, midcentury design, literature, and reading (or all of the above), you’ll want to carve out some quiet time on your next Northern California adventure to check out this library.

Can Anyone Visit The Mill Valley Library?

Anyone can visit the Mill Valley Public Library and access its resources, but to borrow a physical item, you’ll need a MARINet card (California residency not required).

How Do You Get To The Mill Valley Library?

Minutes past Sausalito and San Francisco lies Mill Valley (population ~14,000), the starting point for Muir Woods National Monument. From South Bay, take U.S. Route 101 (Silicon Valley billboards and offices) or scenic Interstate 280 (hillsides scattered with lavish houses, grazing deer, and Crystal Springs Reservoir) for two hours, until crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. No toll northbound; an $11.25 electronic charge is billed to you on your return trip.

Upon arrival at the library, grab street parking. No spots? Park a couple blocks away, grab a coffee downtown, and enjoy the redwoods and picturesque houses on your trek back.

When Can You Visit The Mill Valley Library?

The library launched a pilot program in May, expanding its hours on Thursdays and Saturdays.

The Mill Valley Public Library is currently open as follows: Sunday (12 PM – 5 PM), Monday through Wednesday (10 AM – 8 PM), Thursday (8 AM – 8 PM), Friday and Saturday (10 AM – 5 PM). The library observes federal holidays (a full list of closings can be found here).

What To Expect At The Mill Valley Library

• In the Main Reading Room, half a dozen green-cushioned, wooden seating options are poised around a wood-burning fireplace.
• Beyond the fireplace, a deck features a beautifully rustic view of redwoods above and a creek below.
• To the right of the main entrance, a seed lending library provides a wide assortment of vegetables and herbs to grow your garden. Fill up to three small envelopes of your favorites (I selected carrot, pumpkin, and bell pepper).
• Downstairs, the Lucretia Little History Room is a way to learn about nearby Muir Woods and Mount Tamalpais through photos and exhibits.

Where Is The Best Place To Cozy Up With A Book?

Did you find this Mill Valley Library travel guide helpful? What was your experience visiting Mill Valley Library like? Let us know in the comments below!