Martinez Library, public library in downtown Martinez, California, United States

Martinez Library is a public library housed in an Art Deco building from 1941 located at the corner of Court and Ward Streets in downtown Martinez. The structure displays the clean lines and geometric shapes typical of its era, and it provides free Wi-Fi, computer access, and continuously updated collections in multiple formats for patrons of all ages.

In 1883 the Esse Quam Videre Club organized a free reading room, and in 1885 the Martinez Free Reading Room and Library Association formed, using a building lent rent-free by Dr. John Strentzel; borrowing cost 25 cents a month. In 1896 Mrs. Strentzel and her daughter Louisa Strentzel Muir, wife of John Muir, donated land, and a library was built by popular subscription for $6,371. After more than 40 years there, voters approved an $18,000 bond issue, and an Art Deco building was completed in 1941.

Since 2009 the library has hosted Chinese Lunar New Year celebrations, with lion dance performances and craft activities. Children's story times and Lego workshops run alongside book clubs for adults. In summer, free lunches were served to children and teens three days a week through the California Summer Meal Coalition, drawing families who had not previously used the library.

The library sits at a central corner location in downtown Martinez and is easily accessible on foot, with a compact layout that makes finding your way straightforward. Year-round programs for children, teenagers, and adults including story times and workshops are regularly offered, providing plenty of opportunities to visit.

The interim library operated in the old train depot near Martinez station, open 25 hours per week, until it closed on August 13, 2011. The grand reopening on Saturday, August 20, 2011 drew over 1,000 visitors, who found new self-service stations, furniture and additional computers.