Mountain View History Center at the Library

The Mountain View History Center houses information about Mountain View's past. We collect and preserve books, maps, photographs, directories, newspapers, school yearbooks, and other materials pertaining to Mountain View's heritage. We display artifacts that reflect both the changing and enduring natures of the area once known as The Valley of the Heart’s Delight. The collection is owned jointly by the Library and the Mountain View Historical Association.

Much of our collection comes from donations of personal items. Potential additions to the collection are evaluated on an individual basis. Due to the unique nature of the collection, materials stored in the History Center do not circulate.

We enjoy sharing our local history with children. Contact us to arrange a class tour that highlights the history of our city and our agricultural past.

The History Center is open Tuesdays from 1-5 p.m., or by appointment. Call 650-903-6890 during open hours; or phone 650-903-6887 outside of open hours to schedule an appointment. Email questions can be sent using the Contact Us form.

Donate to the History Center

The History Center accepts donations of documents, photographs, books and other materials that are of historical significance to the City of Mountain View. Donations made to the History Center become property of the City of Mountain View.

Use the History Center Donation form to start the donation process (Download the PDF version). Contact the Mountain View Historical Association if you wish to donate to them.