Supporting our Library, Enriching our Community
The mission of the Friends of the Atascadero Library is to advocate for and support County library services by stimulating increased awareness and appreciation of the resources and services of the library; focusing public attention on the Library and; supporting the freedom to read as expressed in the
We are a dedicated and passionate group of volunteers who care about the library. We supports the following Atascadero Library programs:
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Summer and Winter Reading Programs
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Children's Theatre Camp and Cast Parties
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The Literacy Connection
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Author Talks
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Book Discussion Groups
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Book Giveaways
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Magazines, Fiction and Nonfiction Books
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Media by Mail
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Equipment such as the Automated Materials Handling Device
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Other Special Events, Programs and Materials & more
FOAL in Action: 2026-27 Community Highlights
From supporting young readers and improving library spaces to bringing our community together, here's a look at some of the ways the Friends of the Atascadero Library has been making a difference in 2026!
October–November 2026
Books for Every Child: Providing $13 per student toward book purchases at Scholastic Book Fairs, benefiting 375 students at San Gabriel Elementary School in October and 389 at San Benito Elementary School in November. That's 764 young readers supported!
September 2026
Exploring the Age of AI: Brought an invited talk on the "Age of AI" to the community, encouraging curiosity, learning, and conversation about emerging technology.
October 2026
Library Staff Appreciation: Celebrated our wonderful library staff with a volunteer-hosted potluck breakfast, recognizing their dedication and the important work they do for our community.
August 2026
Chamber of Commerce Mixer: Hosted a successful Atascadero Chamber of Commerce mixer on August 20, welcoming approximately 150 attendees for an evening of community connections and conversation.
August 2026
Theater Camp Celebration: Sponsored treats for the children's Theater Camp cast party, celebrating the young performers and their families. The children even left a heartwarming thank-you note!
July 2026
Backpacks, Books & Bright Beginnings: Donated $1,500 toward school supplies for 150 backpacks through the TANF Kids Backpack Campaign, along with 150 discard library books to help children start the school year ready to learn and read.
August 2026
Enhancing Library Learning Spaces: Contributed $6,480 toward furniture and equipment for the library's new TLC learning space, including tables, privacy panels, and tabletop power strips, creating a more comfortable and functional environment for learning and studying.
June 2026
Books on the Go: Partnered with San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport to keep its Little Free Library stocked with books. This ongoing initiative brings free reading opportunities to travelers, one book at a time!
June 2026
Celebrating Community & Inclusion: Participated in a local Pride celebration with a colorful FOAL booth featuring activities, decorations, and giveaways, connecting with community members and celebrating inclusion.
April 2026
Building Bug Hotels: Partnered with the Master Gardeners for a hands-on workshop attended by 22 children and at least as many adults. Families built homes for beneficial garden insects. No bugs were provided, but plenty were invited!
Bookstore Hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday 10:00 - 4:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 4:00
Thursday 10:00 - 4:00
Friday 1:00 - 4:30
Saturday 10:00 - 4:00
Sunday Closed
All days and hours depend upon volunteer availability
Atascadero Library
6555 Capistrano Avenue
Phone: (805) 461-6161
Monday Closed
Tuesday 10:00 - 6:00
Wednesday 10:00 - 6:00
Thursday 9:00 - 5:00
Friday 1:00 - 5:00
Saturday 9:00 - 5:00
Sunday Closed