SF library book checked out before the 1906 earthquake is finally returned

"The Mechanics' Institute library, founded in 1854, serves as a private library and social club, housing a collection of 200,000 volumes, including rare books."

"The library's history includes being a trade library for Gold Rush workers and hosting chess tournaments, showcasing its long-standing community significance."

"After the 1906 earthquake, many books were presumed lost, but a soot-stained copy of Bret Harte's "Echoes of the Foot-Hills" was recently rediscovered."

"The library was rebuilt in 1910 in the beaux arts style, funded by a generous grant from land baron James Lick, ensuring its continued operation."

The Mechanics' Institute library, founded in 1854, houses a collection of 200,000 volumes, including a recently rediscovered copy of Bret Harte's "Echoes of the Foot-Hills." This book, lost in the 1906 earthquake, features a handwritten name, Agnes Quigley. The library has a rich history, serving as a trade library for Gold Rush workers and hosting chess tournaments. After multiple fires, it was rebuilt in 1910 in a beaux arts style and currently operates on a membership system with 2,900 households enrolled.

Read at SFGATE