In 1916, Andrew Carnegie provided funding and building plans for construction of the Grand Avenue library.

In 1998, the Community Learning Center, a new service of the library and collaborating agencies serving youth and adults, opened.

[citation needed] Visitors may also access electronic resources including GALE databases, online, and e-book services.

The Community Learning Center serves to meet the educational needs of South San Francisco's multicultural residents.

Its programs include English Language Classes, Computer Instruction, Homework Assistance, Activities for Children, Native Language Literacy Classes (Spanish), Kindergarten Preparation, Job Training, Parent Education, and Civic Engagement.

There are also general genealogical reference materials, city directories, an historic building survey (1986), Sanborn maps (1910 and 1929), South San Francisco zoning and area maps (1840s to present), and oral history tapes.