In 1930, San Francisco voters approved a charter amendment to increase taxes for the construction of the Anza Branch Library. Built on the site of the former Lafayette School, the new branch was designed and landscaped by architect John Reid, Jr. The library was dedicated on April 10, 1932, with 11,823 new books on its shelves. The total cost for the building and furnishings was $57,117. Anza became the 17th branch in the San Francisco Public Library system. The branch temporarily closed for renovation in May 2009.
 

Anza Branch Library reopened on Saturday, June 18, 2011. Renovation highlights include a small addition, new accessible restrooms, enhanced public and staff areas, a new elevator, a dedicated Teen Area, a renovated program room on the lower level, additional computers, improved lighting, and new or refinished furniture, shelving, and materials displays.