Los Mangos Library.

The Los Mangos Library in Puerto Vallarta is located in the Los Mangos neighborhood, at 1001 Francisco Villa Street. It is easily accessible from downtown and other parts of the city.

They have a library collection of more than 30,000 books in Spanish and English. There is a children's reading room, ideal for young residents of Vallarta or tourists who want to spend some quiet time.

The Library simultaneously hosts cultural and artistic activities such as:

○ Painting, sculpture, dance, theater, and music classes.

○ Reading, creative writing, and storytelling workshops.

○ Cultural film screenings and film series.

There are also special family events. On weekends, they host activities such as storytelling, creative workshops, and crafts for children. They also organize book fairs, art exhibitions, and craft markets.

There are always open spaces as the building is surrounded by gardens and green areas, providing plenty of room for families to spend time outdoors after activities. They have outdoor reading areas and a very relaxed atmosphere.

The Library is a community asset as it is an independent project, supported in part by donations and fundraising events. It is an inclusive space, offering free or low-cost workshops and activities for the Vallarta community.

Opening hours are generally Monday through Saturday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, although they sometimes extend their hours for special events. It's a good idea to check their social media for updated workshops and schedules.

It is a safe and quiet place for families with children. It helps promote reading and art in an open and accessible space. If you are a Vallarta resident or live nearby, it's a great place for children to take workshops while you enjoy a coffee and read.

The special thing about Los Mangos Library is that it's a community project in Puerto Vallarta. Unlike many public libraries that depend on the government, Los Mangos is independently run, and has been for over 25 years! Let me explain how they do it:
To begin with, it receives donations from the community, with locals, foreign residents, and tourists visiting the library making voluntary financial contributions. Many expats and people who have found a place of belonging in Los Mangos,
They donate consistently, even sponsoring specific programs (such as reading workshops for children or facility repairs).

Twice a year, they organize fundraising events through cultural events and galas that function as fundraisers. Some of the best-known are:

● Art auctions featuring local and international artists.

● Themed dinners and concerts where admission supports the library's upkeep.

● Book fairs or cultural markets, where a percentage of the proceeds go toward their programs.

Many of their art, dance, language, yoga, theater, and other classes have affordable tuition fees. Those who take these workshops not only receive the service but also contribute to the library's maintenance. Some classes are 100% free thanks to sponsorships or scholarships awarded based on the funds raised.

The Library receives support from socially responsible foundations and companies. Private foundations (both Mexican and foreign) provide resources to maintain ongoing programs, such as those promoting children's reading. They also receive support from local businesses, such as restaurants, art galleries, and hotels, which donate services or funds for fundraising events.

Many programs are sustained by a team of volunteers who give their time and expertise. Teachers, artists, cultural promoters, and citizens donate their hours, which helps reduce operating costs.

Sometimes they have an internal shop or cafe that sells used books, souvenirs, crafts, or desserts. The profits help pay for electricity, water, and other expenses.

The administrative model of the Los Mangos Library is very important because it fosters a sense of community ownership, as everyone feels part of its sustainability. By not depending on the government, it maintains its independence to pursue cultural projects that prioritize community interests rather than political ones. It is a model of cultural self-management that has served as an example for other spaces in Mexico.

If you're interested, they often publish open donation campaigns for those who wish to help, even with small contributions. For example, an art auction was recently held to raise funds for the Library, the 2025 Annual Art Auction, and you still have a chance! Some of the incredible works are still available in the Berenice Starr Room at Los Mangos Library, available until March 18 of this year.

Visit the Library and find that special piece that will transform your space; each work purchased directly supports culture and education in our community. Don't miss this opportunity to take home art for a cause.

For more information, please call 3221090009 and 3222249966.