[7] During construction, a bookmobile called the Branch Van parked near each location to conduct basic transactions and provide access to library collections in the local neighborhoods.

[citation needed] On July 1, 2018, the Berkeley Public Library eliminated overdue fines for non-children's media; children's books were already fine-free.

Its significance extends beyond architectural merit, encompassing its harmonious integration with stylistically similar structures, exceptional state of preservation, and the groundbreaking 1973 restoration.

This tradition dates back to the Shattuck family donations of 1893 and 1903 and culminated in the overwhelming voter approval of a special post-Prop.13 library tax in 1980.

Berkeley's initial public library building, funded by a Carnegie grant in 1903, was designed by John Galen Howard, the Beaux Arts architect of the University of California.

In 1930, work commenced with the demolition of the 25-year-old Howard building, perceived as too small and stylistically outdated by progressive Berkeleyans.

His extensive involvement in Berkeley's civic affairs, coupled with his experience as an architect, made him a natural fit for the role.

Plachek had previously designed branch libraries, including Tudor Revival and Spanish Colonial styles, as well as various city buildings such as schools, firehouses, and police stations.

The library's opening in 1931 garnered attention, with a 10-page lead article in the January 1931 Architect & Engineer praising its responsiveness to community needs, modernity, meaningful artistry, and structural simplicity.