Sonoma County Library: Central Library — Attraction in Santa Rosa

The public library is a truly great place to spend time—whether you’re reading, studying, or just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. The architecture is beautiful and thoughtful, with plenty of natural light and open space. The building was designed by Francis Joseph McCarthy, a noted mid-century architect known for his work on public buildings throughout California. McCarthy was celebrated for blending functionality with modernist aesthetics, and this library reflects his style—clean lines, open layouts, and a sense of quiet dignity.

That said, there are a few practical drawbacks. The library has no central air conditioning, so on warmer days, it can get pretty stuffy and hot inside. There’s also no dedicated parking lot, which can be frustrating. Visitors will need to rely on paid street parking, which adds an extra inconvenience—especially during busier times.

Another area for improvement is the restroom facilities. Unfortunately, they were messy and unpleasant, with strong odors and little maintenance evident. They’re not for the faint of heart, and honestly, the library would really benefit from adding keypad locks or codes to help manage access and cleanliness.

Despite those issues, the library remains a valuable public space. Getting a library card doesn’t just give you access to books and digital resources—it also helps fund and support the library. Everyone in the community should consider becoming a member. It’s one of the simplest ways to keep these spaces vibrant and accessible for all.

In short, while it has its flaws, the library is still a welcoming and inspiring place, steeped in thoughtful design and filled with resources. With a few improvements, it could be...

Today was the 1st time I ever went into this library (1st time ever being in this town, too). We came here for business and medical meetings, and I wanted to go to the library for a while while my husband was in his meetings. When I arrived, it wasn't open yet, and a bunch of homeless were waiting to go inside. I decided to go to the childrens section to sit and utilize my phone for business, and I went into the restroom before sitting down in silence. As I was finishing up, a bunch of people came in telling me to leave, saying the restroom was for children only, even though there was no sign stating so ANYWHERE. Then I asked if I could stay in the area and enjoy the silence, I was rudely told no amd when I said something about it, they told me I had to leave. Never in my life have I been treated so rudely and like total trash! I told the (balding 30yr old hall monitor) jerk how he made me feel and that they shouldn't assume every old person on crutches is a homeless crazy person. The way every single person in that library acted over what I did was wrong and they should lose their jobs over it, I was absolutely applauded and embarrassed to be alive for how they treated me. I told them what they did to an innocent bystander (and new person to their town), who simply wanted to enjoy some peace and quiet away from all the ruckus was wrong, in every single way they handled the situation. I'll never come back to this town for any reason. My money and business will NOT go into this crappy...

Great library AND can't find a place to recommend a purchase, A Place Called Home, by David Ambroz, who was brought up in the foster care system. So many homeless are on our streets and we need to know their experiences. Here are some comments on the book: "It's impossible to read A Place Called Home and not want to redouble your efforts to fight the systems of poverty that have plagued America for far too long. In this book, David shares his deeply personal story and issues a rousing call to make this a more humane and compassionate nation."―Hillary Rodham Clinton

"A Place Called Home presents an unflinching, frank examination of the realities of being a child without a home and being surrounded by a fundamentally flawed system where neither child nor parent have enough help, or the right help, to break the cycle of poverty. Ambroz’s story is a frightening example of how easily inadequate procedures and policies traumatize lives each and every day. The heart of this first memoir is both a raw account of Ambroz’s journey to adulthood and a powerful, uncompromising call to action for significant change."

―Booklist

"Riveting. . . A haunting, inspiring chronicle of fortitude and perseverance."

―Kirkus, Starred Review

“[A] captivating debut…Galvanizing and compassionate, this personal account of survival should be required...