Prelinger Library

Prelinger Library is an independent research library in San Francisco that houses thousands of books, periodicals, maps, and historical documents. The materials are organized in six distinct rows by subject, making it easy to navigate through the collections.

The library was founded in 2004 by Rick and Megan Prelinger with a focus on 19th and 20th century materials. This emphasis reflects the founders' commitment to preserving less-documented aspects of American history.

The collection documents California's history, urban growth, industrial life, and social movements through materials visitors can explore directly. This focus on lived experience makes the library a place where everyday American history becomes tangible.

The library is located on Folsom Street and welcomes visitors during open hours. Photography of materials is permitted, which makes onsite research convenient.

The library uses a geographical organization system starting with California materials and expanding outward to national and global subjects. This arrangement helps visitors ground knowledge locally before exploring larger contexts.

Location: San Francisco

GPS coordinates: 37.77470,-122.40900

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46