More Than Books.
A Place to Belong.
For over 100 years, Kern County Library has been a place where families grow, students succeed, and communities connect.
Who We Are
Kern County Library serves a vibrant and diverse community across the county, providing free access to books, technology, and opportunities for lifelong learning. With branches, outreach services, and digital resources, we are committed to meeting people where they are—whether that’s inside our libraries, online, or out in the community.
Beyond books, Kern County Library offers programs for every stage of life—from early literacy storytimes and teen workshops to adult education classes and career resources. We host cultural events, hands-on learning experiences, and digital initiatives that foster creativity, curiosity, and connection.
As a trusted community hub, we provide safe spaces for learning, collaboration, and discovery. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure everyone—regardless of age, background, or ability—can access the knowledge, resources, and support they need to thrive. By embracing diversity, inclusion, and innovation, Kern County Library empowers residents, strengthens communities, and inspires a lifelong love of learning across the county.
Our Impact
803,704
Items Checked Out
14,473
Programs Offered
242,285
Program Attendees
821,693
Library Visits
95,173
Cardholders
2.7M+
Website Visits
38,868
Reference Questions Answered
701,819
Items in Collection
Top 10 Most Checked out items in Kern County
WHAT YOU CAN DO
- Borrow books, movies, and more
- Attend free programs for all ages
- Access online learning and tutoring tools
- Use computers, wi-fi, and study spaces
- Discover events, workshops, and community resources
Your library card unlocks access to thousands of resources—completely free for California residents
WHY IT MATTERS
Libraries are more than buildings—they are spaces where lives are changed.
A child discovers a love of reading.
A student finds the help they need to succeed.
A job seeker gains access to tools and opportunities.
Every day, Kern County Library is helping build a stronger, more connected community.
OUR STORY
Early 1900s
Library service begins in Kern County
1952
The Bakersfield earthquake reshapes library services
Late 1900s
Expansion brings libraries across the county
Today
A modern system serving hundreds of thousands each year
To build community and cultivate opportunities for Kern County residents, by connecting people, ideas, information, and technology.
Enhance Quality of Life for Residents, Be a Model of Excellence, & Foster a Culture of Innovation
For historical information about the Kern County Library & its branches, read the eBook Kern County Library, A Century of Progress.
From 1866 to 1900, there were several clubs that housed book collections, including the Woman’s Club of Bakersfield and the Kern Library Association which both had collections for its paying members. On June 2, 1900, the Beale Memorial Library formally opened, in mission-style architecture on Chester Ave. & 17th St., and was deeded by Truxtun Beale, the son of the founder of Tejon Ranch, and the elder Beale’s widow, Mary E. Beale, to the City of Bakersfield. Separately, on July 11, 1911, the Kern County Free Library was established by the Board of Supervisors and was funded by a 2.5¢ per $100 tax. Under this new county library system, 6 new branches were established. On August 16, 1923, the Bakersfield City Council drew up a notice of intention to join the county library system, and therefore, the Beale Memorial Library, East Bakersfield libraries, and collections at City Hall formally became branches of the Kern County Free Library.
Since then, all public libraries in Kern County have belonged to the one and only county library system. There was a dramatic change to library services on August 22, 1952, due to a major earthquake. Because the main library was housed at the courthouse and the building was condemned by authorities, the main library spent 5 years jumping locations — between operations out of a tent, bookmobile, and temporary facilities. In 1957, a new Beale Memorial Library and Headquarters building was erected on Truxtun Ave. and L St. In 1988, a new main library building was opened as the Beale Memorial Library and Kern County Library Headquarters, on Truxtun Ave. and Q St, which still operates today. The Kern County Library provides a full range of services and resources to over 850,000 people in every city and unincorporated area of Kern County through a network operated at Kern County Library Headquarters.
Andie Sullivan
Library Director
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Shalyn Pineda
Assistant Library Director
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Mark Lewis
Business Manager
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