Do you take book donations?

We take new & used hardback/paperback books in good to excellent condition, with a maximum of 2 boxes/bags a week per household. ​

We are unable to accept textbooks, encyclopedias, and dictionaries. Thank you!!

 

Who can get a free library card?

Anyone can qualify for a library card, regardless of whether you live in Templeton. For those under age eighteen, we do require a parent’s permission. 

 

How can I get a free library card?  

Fill out our online application by clicking the button below. You'll need to give your name, email address, and phone number, and for those under eighteen, we require parental permission. 

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Why is Templeton Library not a county library? ​​​

In 1979, SLO County closed Templeton Library after Prop 13 passed 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 to fund the construction. 

 

By 2019 TCLA had raised their half of the funds, but the county had no funds to contribute. When COVID-19 hit, SLO County officials told TCLA to build a library but that they could not guarantee county funds to operate it. TCLA downsized the plans, built and furnished the library, and opened it January 3, 2023, with all volunteers and a catalog system different from the county system. The county has indicated it has no funding for Templeton Library.

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SLO County collects 1.6 percent of Templeton property taxes for library services, but none of those funds flow back to our community library. For over 45 years Templeton residents contributed that money which  funds fourteen other county branches.  Templeton Community Services District customers pay over $318,047 annually to SLO County, which is only a portion of the Templeton residents in the 93465 zip code area. TCLA has requested the County review this problem. We are actively seeking a tax exchange for the library services taxes payments by Templeton residents.  

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