Frequently Asked Questions about the First Pres Library

For questions not answered here, please contact the Library at (510) 848-6252 ext. 287 or at library@fpcberkeley.org.

What are the library hours?
What is in the First Pres collection?
Who can check out materials?
What are the color codes on the books?
Can I get help finding a particular book?
Now that there is more space, do you want more books?
Are DVDs and CDs available in the library?
Can I help in some way?

What are the library hours?
The Library is open on Sundays and other times during the week when Westminster Hall is open to First Pres family and friends.

What is in the First Pres collection?
Since this a church library, the adult collection is mostly Christian literature and resource material. There are a few things that are not specifically Christian, such as the psychology and world religions section. The children's section is broader, including good children’s literature as well as Christian books.

Who can check out materials?
First Pres family and friends can register to have check-out privileges. You'll find information on the check-out process on the top of the card catalog.

What are the color codes on the books?
We use color codes instead of the Dewey Decimal system, so that books on an important topic are together. The card catalog can help you locate books, as the cards will have the color codes as well.

Can I get help finding a particular book? 
Contact the librarians at (510) 848-6252 ext. 287 or at library@fpcberkeley.org. If we find the book you want, we will leave it at the Library front desk with your name on it for you to check it out. Whether we find it or not, we'll email you back to let you know.

Now that there is more space, do you want more books?
No. We still have several hundred new books to process. The main way we add books to the collection is through the Annual Book Sale. If you have books that you think we'd like in the library, bring them in January.

Are DVDs and CDs available in the library?
Yes, there is a growing collection of DVDs for both adults and children. In addition, there are great books on CD, as well as music. The cabinets are unlocked and available on Sundays.

Can I help in some way?
Yes. We are recruiting people to staff the library on Sunday mornings and perhaps at other times when people are in the building. We are also looking for people who would like to read and review books. If you would like to volunteer, please contact us at library@fpcberkeley.org.