The Most Comprehensive Buddhist Library from San Francisco to Portland

By Bette Semple, KSC Librarian

Our library began modestly when KSC occupied the farmhouse on Granite Street. A former librarian, Jan Sneider-Brown, was asked to create a library after donations of books began to arrive. Jan's vision from the start was to develop a public library where anyone with an interest in Buddhism would borrow books and media.

The Dharma subjects include Hinayana, Mahayana, Vajrayana, and other traditions such as Zen. Special subjects such as Buddhist Women, Death and Caregiving, and Tibetan Art, for example, have been collected, as well as "General Buddhism." 

Eminent teachers from all traditions have been added, such as Thich Nhat Hanh, Pema Chodron, the Dalai Lama, and many others.

One of the remarkable aspects of our library is that it has evolved largely from donations. The generosity from our sangha continues to expand the richness and variety.  The library has been called "The best Buddhist library between San Francisco and Portland!"

Library Hours

Mondays 10am - 1pm
Wednesdays 10am - 12pm
Lama Sundays at 11:30 following the talks

Please note: Federal Holidays are observed

Just to note: There is a revised donation policy for the library. Duplicates and other materials that don't match our criteria will be returned to donors.

If you are interested in volunteering at the library, reach out to Bette Semple through the office email: office@kscashland.org