Palm Desert Library

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Welcome to the Palm Desert Library Homepage

The Palm Desert Library, a cornerstone of the City of Palm Desert, offers a welcoming space for residents and visitors to explore a vast collection of books, multimedia resources, and community programs. Located conveniently in the heart of the city, the library provides a modern, comfortable environment with state-of-the-art facilities.

Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of services, including free Wi-Fi, public computers, study rooms, and a variety of educational and cultural events tailored to all ages. Whether you're looking to borrow the latest bestseller, attend a workshop, or participate in a children's storytime session, the Palm Desert Library is a hub for learning, creativity, and connection.

VISION: A Palm Desert where everyone belongs and is filled with promise, progress, play, and prosperity.
MISSION: The Palm Desert Library nurtures community well-being through social, cultural, and learning experience.
WE VALUE: Curiosity, Discovery, Exploration, Imagination, and Health & Happiness.

Hours, Contact, and Location

Location: 73300 Fred Waring Dr, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Contact: (760) 346-6552 or libraryinfo@palmdesert.gov
Hours:
- Monday-Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Thursday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Find the Palm Desert Library Online

What's Happening at the Library

Sign Up for the Summer Reading Challenge

Starting June 10th, 50 day reading challenge - Adventure Awaits!
All Ages
Performers, Prizes, and giveaways all summer long
More information about Summer Reading events and registration here.

Ongoing: Storytime at the Shops (by Macy’s, 1st floor)

Every Tuesday from 10:30 -11:30 AM. Storytime starts at 11AM!
Toddlers, Preschoolers, and Caregivers
Fun stories and engaging activities for all

Limited Edition Library Card

This month you will be able to reserve your NEW Palm Desert Library Card. Email libraryinfo@palmdesert.gov to reserve your card! Cards will be activated July 1, 2024.

Little Free Libraries

The following locations have a little free library:

Joe Mann Park
Ironwood Park
University Dog Park
Palma Village Park
Portola Community Center
Click here for a map of the locations

The Little Free Libraries will be stocked with books to borrow and other library activities. All items are free to the public.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have access to the services we enjoy now?

Yes, you will continue to have access to the library services you currently enjoy. Over the next few years, the City-led library will maintain services at the existing Palm Desert Library location. Additionally, the long-term plan will guide the future library strategy, ensuring the provision of services and programs for a broader community.

May I still borrow books from other libraries?

Yes, within 60 days of opening, the City of Palm Desert plans to join a consortium of over 400 public and academic library outlets that share their books with one another. If Palm Desert does not own an item you are looking for, you can request it via the library’s catalog from one of the other libraries, and it will be delivered to the Palm Desert Library for you to pick up.

You will still be able to use your Riverside County Library System card to borrow items and pick-up at nearby County libraries.

Will there be a brand-new Palm Desert public library in the future?

The city has initiated plans to construct a new public library within the next 3-5 years. Meanwhile, the current location will serve as a pilot for testing the future of library services in Palm Desert under the concept called "Library as Laboratory." This concept transforms the traditional library into a dynamic hub for hands-on learning and exploration. It fosters experimentation, learning, and creativity, providing diverse resources and collaborative environments for all ages. Stay tuned for more details coming soon!

What if I have questions?

If you have other questions you may email libraryinfo@palmdesert.gov.

History of the Palm Desert Library

Background & History of the Palm Desert Library

The Palm Desert Library opened at the Portola Community Center in 1962 and remained operational at the facility until 1996. Since its inception, the County of Riverside has managed the library. However, the County contracted out its library services, first to the City of Riverside and later to a company, now known as LSS. In 1996, the library was moved from the Portola Ave. location to its current location on the College of the Desert campus.

The new library was established in partnership with the City of Palm Desert (City), the County of Riverside (County), and the Desert Community College District (College). The facility includes 40,000 square feet, which is divided into a 20,000-square-foot City library and the remaining space for a College library (unoccupied since January 2020). There is some shared space (joint-use area) as well. In 2023, the City of Palm Desert started investigating a municipal-run library alternative.

City of Palm Desert

Palm Desert Library

Library Website Homepage

Search the Library Catalog

Library Event Calendar

Palm Desert Visitor Center

Contact the Library