MissionThe Kern County Library is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming environment for families and children. To make the Library an enjoyable place and to encourage a love of books, reading, and learning, the Library offers designated children’s and teen areas, programs, and services. PurposeThe Library encourages children and their parents/guardians to use its […]
MissionThe Library recognizes its unique position and responsibility to build community and cultivate opportunities for Kern County residents to participate fully in our society as an informed citizenry, by connecting people, resources, ideas, information, and technology. The goal of the Library is to provide an environment where all visitors are welcome. PurposeCounty residents expect each […]
PurposeIt is the purpose of the Library to maintain a healthy and clean environment appropriate for Library visitors and the protection of Library materials and equipment. With health and cleanliness in mind, the goal is to provide guidelines for visitors to enjoy food and drink responsibly yet maintain Library property and prevent disruption to other […]
In 1988, with the construction of the new Beale Memorial Library in Bakersfield, the local history collection received its own room, named for major benefactor Jack Maguire (1913-1985). Download Local History Room Policy
The Kern County Genealogical Society (KCGS) was formed in 1964 in the southern portion of California’s Central Valley. As of 1981, per an agreement between the Kern County Board of Supervisors, the Library, and the KCGS, the Society integrated its collection into the Kern County Library and is currently housed in the Genealogy Room at […]
The Kern County Library accepts donations of books and other materials, including monetary contributions and memorial gifts. The Library reserves the right to determine how gifts are used and is unable to return any gift once it has been donated. Download Gift and Donation Policy
The Collection Development policy of the Library supports the mission of the Kern County Library. The Library functions as a major information source for County residents by providing a broad and relevant collection of materials to engage and inform people from differing communities, backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. Our diverse collection of materials in English and […]
Our Brand The Kern County Library’s (KCL) new brand kicks off an exciting new era for Kern County Libraries and coincides with several exciting departmental projects in 2022. As a county library system, we continue to value the entirety of the community, including rural areas and aim to bring technology, learning, accessibility, and more to […]
There shall be a fine each time library material becomes overdue; however, the maximum fine per transaction shall not exceed 70% of the replacement cost of the material. Accumulated charges totaling $2 or more will result in suspension of checkout privileges until the account is revoked. A handling fee of $35 per check shall be […]
The Kern County Library provides wireless access, free of charge, during normal library operating hours. However, high demand, reliability of technology, and other factors may affect access. For these reasons, the Library cannot guarantee the availability or reliability of the service. Download Wireless Internet Use Agreement
