As far as Bay Area day trips go, the Mill Valley Public Library is one of the most peaceful and low-maintenance nearby hidden gems.
It’s a charming building nestled in the redwoods, with massive windows and a mid-century design style that makes for a welcoming spot to dive into a book.
Whether you’re a dedicated bookworm or you love exploring new local treasures, this cozy library is a must-see if you can make the trip. Here’s a closer look.
Inside the Mill Valley Library
The half-hour trip from SF starts with a short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, winding through the gorgeous coastal town of Sausalito before parking in the Mill Valley city center. From there, it’s a 5- to 10-minute walk over to Old Mill Park, where you’ll discover the library tucked into a small redwood grove.
Wurster Bernardi Emmons designed the library in 1966, and its clean and natural mid-century charm has endured to this day, even through a 2010 expansion.
The ample reading room offers hand-crafted walnut furniture and fine oil paintings, which beautifully complement the warm wood tones and beamed ceilings. The seats by the fireplace and the large window are the best in the house.
In fact, those floor-to-ceiling windows may be the library’s best feature. The view of the sequoias makes it feel like you’re in a high-end treehouse or log cabin — perfect to dive into some Steinbeck or Kerouac.
The library’s harmonious design has won numerous awards, including an American Institute of Architects (AIA) Award in 1969 and an ALA/AIA Library Building Award in 1968. In 2015, it was a finalist for Library Journal’s Best Small Library in America award.
Visiting Mill Valley
Round out your library visit with an afternoon in the adorable Mill Valley city center, where you can do some shopping, enjoy a delicious lunch, or peruse the monthly Makers Market. Alternatively, stop over in Sausalito and check out the famous floating houseboats.
In a world of endless noise, the Mill Valley Public Library offers a wonderfully inspiring kind of silence. Consider making the day trip for a peaceful and unpretentious afternoon in the Bay Area.
🌐 Website: Mill Valley Public Library
🕜 Hours: 10am-8pm Monday-Thursday, 10am-5pm on Friday, and 12pm-5pm Saturday-Sunday
📍 Location: 375 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley, CA 94941
