The City Libraries in Escondido, United States was established in 1894. It was originally known as the Escondido Free Public Library and was located in a small room in the City Hall building. The library was founded by a group of local women who saw the need for a public library in the growing city.
The library was officially opened to the public on October 1, 1894, with a collection of 500 books. It was the first public library in San Diego County and one of the first in Southern California.
The library's mission was to provide free access to information and resources for the education and enrichment of the community. It quickly became a popular gathering place for residents of all ages, offering not only books but also newspapers, magazines, and educational programs.
Over the years, the library has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing collection and increasing demand for services. In 1980, the library moved to its current location on Kalmia Street, which was designed by renowned architect Rob Wellington Quigley.
Today, the City Libraries in Escondido consists of the Main Library and two branch libraries, serving a population of over 150,000 residents. The library continues to fulfill its mission of providing free access to information and resources, as well as promoting literacy and lifelong learning in the community.
1. Fiction Books Collection: This collection includes a wide range of popular and classic fiction books from various genres such as romance, mystery, science fiction, and more.
2. Non-Fiction Books Collection: This collection includes books on various subjects such as history, science, self-help, biographies, and more.
3. Children's Books Collection: This collection is specifically curated for children and includes picture books, chapter books, and young adult novels.
4. Reference Books Collection: This collection includes dictionaries, encyclopedias, atlases, and other reference materials for research and information purposes.
5. Audio Books Collection: This collection includes audiobooks in various formats such as CDs, MP3s, and digital downloads.
6. Large Print Books Collection: This collection includes books with larger font sizes for people with visual impairments.
7. Graphic Novels Collection: This collection includes comic books and graphic novels for readers of all ages.
8. Local History Collection: This collection includes books, documents, and other materials related to the history of Escondido and its surrounding areas.
9. E-Books Collection: This collection includes digital books that can be accessed and downloaded from the library's website.
10. Periodicals Collection: This collection includes magazines, newspapers, and journals on various topics for leisure reading and research purposes.
The City Libraries in Escondido, United States, offer a wide range of rare books, history archives, and manuscripts for readers to explore and discover. These collections provide a unique opportunity for readers to delve into the past and gain a deeper understanding of various subjects and time periods.
Some of the rare books available at the library include first editions, limited editions, and out-of-print books. These books are carefully preserved and provide a glimpse into the literary world of the past. Some notable rare books in the collection include "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" by Mark Twain, "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, and "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald.
The history archives at the library contain a wealth of information about the local history of Escondido and the surrounding areas. These archives include photographs, maps, newspapers, and other documents that offer a unique perspective on the development of the city. Readers can explore the archives to learn about the people, events, and landmarks that have shaped the community over the years.
The library also has a collection of manuscripts that provide a glimpse into the lives and works of notable authors, poets, and artists. These manuscripts include handwritten drafts, letters, and other personal documents that offer insights into the creative process and the lives of these individuals. Some notable manuscripts in the collection include those of John Steinbeck, Emily Dickinson, and Edgar Allan Poe.
In addition to these collections, the library also offers access to digital archives and databases, allowing readers to explore rare books, historical documents, and manuscripts from around the world. These resources provide a wealth of information and are a valuable tool for researchers and history enthusiasts.
Overall, the rare books, history archives, and manuscripts available at the City Libraries in Escondido offer a unique and enriching experience for readers. They provide a window into the past and allow readers to connect with the people, events, and ideas that have shaped our world.

Services:

1. Access to physical and digital collections: Libraries provide access to a wide range of physical and digital collections including books, magazines, newspapers, DVDs, CDs, ebooks, audiobooks, and online databases.
2. Reference and research assistance: Librarians are available to help subscribers and community members with their research needs, providing guidance on how to use library resources effectively.
3. Computer and internet access: Libraries offer free access to computers and the internet for subscribers and community members who may not have access at home.
4. Educational and cultural programs: Libraries organize various educational and cultural programs such as author talks, book clubs, workshops, and film screenings to promote learning and community engagement.
5. Children and youth services: Libraries provide a range of services for children and youth, including storytime sessions, homework help, and summer reading programs.
6. Meeting and study spaces: Libraries offer meeting and study spaces for subscribers and community members to use for group projects, meetings, or individual study.
7. Interlibrary loan: Libraries have partnerships with other libraries, allowing subscribers and community members to request materials from other libraries if they are not available in their own library.
8. Access to online resources: Libraries provide access to a variety of online resources such as ebooks, audiobooks, online courses, and databases, which can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection.
9. Special services for seniors and people with disabilities: Libraries offer special services for seniors and people with disabilities, such as home delivery of library materials and large print books.
10. Community events and partnerships: Libraries often host community events and partner with local organizations to promote community engagement and support local initiatives.

Things To Do:

1. Art Exhibitions: The library hosts regular art exhibitions featuring the works of local artists. These exhibitions are free to attend and provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent.
2. Author Talks and Book Readings: The library invites authors to discuss their books and read excerpts from their works. These events are a great opportunity for book lovers to interact with their favorite authors and discover new books.
3. Book Clubs: The library hosts book clubs for different age groups and genres. These clubs provide a space for book lovers to discuss and analyze books in a group setting.
4. Children's Storytime: The library organizes regular storytime sessions for children, where they can listen to engaging stories and participate in fun activities related to the books.
5. Writing Workshops: The library offers writing workshops for aspiring writers to improve their skills and learn from experienced authors.
6. Film Screenings: The library hosts film screenings of classic and contemporary movies, as well as documentaries on various topics.
7. Music Performances: The library hosts live music performances by local musicians, covering a wide range of genres.
8. Cultural Events: The library celebrates different cultures and traditions through events such as dance performances, cooking demonstrations, and cultural festivals.
9. Technology Workshops: The library offers workshops on various technology-related topics, such as coding, digital photography, and social media.
10. Book Sales: The library holds book sales where visitors can purchase books at discounted prices. These sales are a great opportunity to expand one's personal library at a low cost.

1. Respect the library's rules and regulations: Each library may have its own set of rules and regulations, such as no food or drinks allowed, no loud talking, or no cell phone use. Make sure to familiarize yourself with these rules and follow them to ensure a peaceful and respectful environment for everyone.
2. Keep your voice down: Libraries are meant to be quiet spaces for studying and reading. Be mindful of your volume when talking to others or using your phone. If you need to have a conversation, try to find a designated area for talking or step outside.
3. Handle books and materials with care: Books and other materials in the library are meant to be shared and used by many people. Make sure to handle them with care and avoid damaging or marking them. If you accidentally damage a book, inform a librarian so they can properly repair it.
4. Use headphones when listening to audio: If you need to listen to audio materials, such as videos or music, make sure to use headphones. This will prevent disturbing others who are studying or reading nearby.
5. Return books and materials on time: Be mindful of due dates for books and materials you borrow from the library. Returning them on time allows others to access them and avoids late fees.
6. Keep your personal belongings with you: Do not leave your personal belongings unattended in the library. This can prevent theft and ensure a safe environment for everyone.
7. Use designated areas for eating and drinking: If the library allows food and drinks, make sure to use designated areas for consuming them. This will help keep the library clean and prevent any damage to books and materials.
8. Respect others' personal space: When finding a place to study or work, make sure to respect others' personal space. Do not spread out your belongings or take up more space than necessary.
9. Ask for help from librarians: Librarians are there to help you find the resources you need and answer any questions you may have. Do not hesitate to ask for assistance if you need it.
10. Be mindful of noise levels in group study areas: If you are studying in a group, be aware of your noise levels and try to keep them to a minimum. This will allow others to study and work in the same area without being disturbed.
11. Avoid using your phone in quiet areas: If you need to use your phone, try to step outside or find a designated area for phone use. This will prevent disturbing others who are trying to study or read in quiet areas.
12. Report any disruptive behavior: If you encounter any disruptive behavior in the library, such as loud talking or inappropriate actions, inform a librarian or staff member. They will be able to address the situation and ensure a peaceful environment for everyone.

City Libraries in Escondido, United States offers a variety of subscription plans for its patrons. These plans are designed to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of library users. The following are the subscription plans offered by the library:
1. Basic Plan: This plan is free for all residents of Escondido and allows access to all physical materials such as books, magazines, and DVDs. It also includes access to the library's online resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and databases.
2. Premium Plan: This plan is available for a fee and offers additional benefits such as extended borrowing periods, access to premium online resources, and discounted fees for library programs and events.
3. Student Plan: This plan is specifically designed for students and offers access to all physical and online resources, as well as discounted fees for printing and copying services.
4. Family Plan: This plan is ideal for families and allows multiple family members to access the library's resources under one account. It also offers discounted fees for library programs and events.
5. Business Plan: This plan is tailored for small businesses and offers access to business-related resources, including market research databases, business books, and workshops.
6. Non-Resident Plan: This plan is available for non-residents of Escondido and offers access to all physical and online resources for a fee.
7. Senior Plan: This plan is available for senior citizens and offers discounted fees for library programs and events, as well as access to all physical and online resources.
8. Institutional Plan: This plan is designed for schools, organizations, and institutions and offers access to the library's resources for a fee.
In addition to these subscription plans, the library also offers special programs and services for children, teens, and adults, including book clubs, storytimes, and technology classes. Patrons can visit the library's website or visit their local branch to learn more about the subscription plans and services offered.

Monday: 9:30 AM  8:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM  8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM  8:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM  8:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM  6:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM  6:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM  5:00 PM
Please note that these timings may vary during holidays and special events. It is recommended to check the library's website or call ahead for updated timings.

Looking to visit the City Libraries in Escondido, United States? You can easily reach it by taking public transport options such as buses or trains. The library is conveniently located near several bus stops and a train station, making it easily accessible for all. Plan your trip today and enjoy the wide range of resources and services offered at the library.