From the Wikipedia page [1]. The California State Library collects, preserves, generates and disseminates a wide array of information. It was founded in 1850 by the California State Legislature. Today, it is the central reference and research library for state government and the Legislature. The California State Library advises, consults with and provides technical assistance to California's public libraries. It directs state and federal funds to support local public libraries and statewide library programs. The mission of the California State Library is to serve as California's public research library, helping the people of California, their governments and their libraries with their information and knowledge needs. With the exception of the Sutro Library in San Francisco, all branches ar