Frequently asked questions

1) Are you taking book donations?

 We take books in good condition. We are grateful for Best Sellers and Hardbound books.  We accept textbooks, some magazines, but not most encyclopedias,  dictionaries, or mass marketed paperback. Thank you! 

2) How can I get a free library card?  Name, email and phone number are all you need for those older than 18. Under 18, requires parent's signature.

• Click online Library Card Application 

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3) Why are we not a County Library? ​​​

     In 1979, SLO County closed Templeton Library after Prop 13 and never reopened it. TCLA formed in 2000 to continue the dream of a Boy Scout who wanted to build a community library. The County agreed to a 50-50 partnership. 

   By 2019 TCLA had raised their half of the funds but the County had no funds. When Covid hit, SLO  County officials told TCLA to build a library, but they could not guarantee operating it. We downsized our plans, built and furnished the library and opened January 3, 2023 with all volunteers. We purchased our own catalog system which is different from the County system. The County has indicated it has no funding for Templeton Library.

   SLO County collects 1.6% of Templeton property taxes for library services, but none of those funds flow back to our community library. It funds 14 other county branches.

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