Such a beautiful and relaxing place to spend a few hours. There are plenty of quiet areas to read or work, plus lots of natural light and comfortable seating. I also like that you can walk around and find different spaces depending on whether you want something quiet or more open. Definitely one of the nicest libraries I've been to read more

Who knew a library could be this much of a destination? During our Austin visit on Sunday, September 13, we explored the gorgeous Austin Central Library, right beside Lady Bird Lake--and wow, this place is an architectural gem! Spacious, spotless, and beautifully designed, it feels like a library meets urban oasis. The top floor is the star of the show, with a mini park, solar-panel shade structures, and breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake. There are cozy reading nooks, spaces for games, a whole floor for kids, plus a cafe and gift shop downstairs. Parking is conveniently available below. We came for books but stayed for the views! San Antonio, take notes? I'd definitely make another stop here on our next Austin adventure. read more

Austin Central Library is nothing short of magnificent. The architecture and interior design are modern with clean lines and elements that accentuate the library experience taking it to another level entirely. This is the type of structure and experience you'd expect in NYC, London, and the likes. Absolute perfection. I love the way the book sections and categories are divided and set up on various floors. Each floor is crazy spacious with loads of comfortable reading areas, tables, areas for rest, etc. There are private meeting rooms, a cafe, gift shop, an art gallery, rooftop deck with crazy good views of the city and Ladybird Lake, a children's library called 'Wonderland', an events center and so much more. The librarians and staff are extremely helpful, friendly, and not bothered if you need assistance locating a book. They have almost everything you could possibly be looking for to read whether for research or fun. Access to laptops and computers. Lots of charging areas for media and phones. The library is a true marvel. It makes me happy to see and know that ALL are welcome, especially the unhoused who would otherwise not have a place to go in extreme temps. The bathrooms and entire library are spotless and meticulously clean. We're so very lucky to have this amazing library in our city. read more

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Most impressive library I've ever seen. Highlights: - HUGE: so may floors and so much space to hang out - Looked like a tech company space but a public version for more to enjoy - Roof garden with expansive views and fun colorful seating - A full tech area to create in with computers and installed software - Gallery: full room featuring an artist on the main level - Art: beautiful colored windows, art inside, and cool art installation with words from a snippet of a poem in English and Spanish. - Architecture: actual building was modern with unique angles and lovely. And you cross a butterfly bridge to get there - Bike repair shop below - Restaurant and coffee shop window Midlights: - My home town does not have a library like this Lowliglights: - The elevator is very slow and doesn't smell so clean... read more

My goodness what a gorgeous library! It has everything you could need - NOT JUST BOOKS! They have Chromebooks you can borrow. Or computers you can use there. There are meeting rooms you can use. There are games on the shelves that you can play. They offer classes on a variety of subjects! I saw one on bicycle maintenance! They even have a 3D printer you can send them a file for and they will print it! There is the cutest cafe and a gift shop! The best part of all is the rooftop patio! You can grab that coffee, grab a book and hang out and take in the gorgeous views of the lake! I love it and can't wait to go back! read more

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If someone invited you to their significant birthday party at the Austin Central Library, would you attend? Absolutely! One of our church friends celebrated a milestone birthday at the Austin Central Library, and it was a wonderful experience. The evening featured a buffet dinner, an open bar, and plenty of dancing. Since about half of the guests were fellow church members, my hubby and I felt right at home in the warm and joyful environment. Interestingly, the first-floor banquet room was transformed into a spectacular birthday celebration. It was spacious, elegant, and had excellent acoustics, making it perfect for dining, conversation, and music. In fact, while attending the party, it was hard to believe we were inside a library. There was also a decorative photo cube with a clear front where guests could step in and take pictures to commemorate the special occasion. It was a memorable event and a fantastic venue for a significant birthday celebration. read more

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An amazing labyrinth of a museum/library fun for all ages! Roof garden is a must, plenty of sneaky side porches to lounge on, lots of restrooms & views... read more

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Now, this is a proper library, and community space. There's a parking garage below that is accessed via an elevator. It's unclear if there is stairwell access. The library building is voluminous, with multiple levels. Each level corresponds with an age group or target audience. The "teen" space is quite cool. Seating and equipment there (including instruments) are reserved for people in that age group. They have Lego models topping each shelf. On other levels, there are clearly dedicated quiet spaces for reading or working, sectioned off by a glass door with a sign describing the situation. If I lived closer to this library, I could imagine coming here much more frequently. read more

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This APL branch is the most artistic I've encountered by far. It's also super busy in here on Saturday! It's right on Cesar Chavez so I guess not surprising. They have a ton of resources here, including things like laser cutters. They have tons of books for checkout and events, and my friend needed help with renewing her lib card and was able to do it in like 5 mins here at the desk. They also mentioned some resources for online checkout; I already use Libby which they mentioned but there are a couple other options too that I didn't know about! The parking here l think is isolated to paid parking under the building, and some limited street pay parking. Not the most accessible place, but it's really nice to walk around and hang out. read more

I really like the library entrance where you are greeted with a fabulous artwork. Then go up to the top floor and you can see the absolute gorgeous panoramic view of lady bird lake. What a treat! It is a bit windy up there, and hard to hold conference meetings outdoors. Also indoor conference rooms are under construction so it's not possible to hold private conference calls. Though its possible to make calls in the public library. All in all, very central to Austin and easily accessible for working professionals and students to get away from anything. read more

Austin Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

I went to the library to claim my free Austin resident library card. Unfortunately my pre-filled online card application expired after 21 days (I submitted it July 4 - oops). The staff was super helpful from instructing me how to fill out an onsite application form with their computers, to searching for books, to reading the shelf maps, placing holds, and borrowing policies. I haven't used a library since January when I was volunteering in Mariposa County, California. But that one was pretty small. The ACL reminds me of my college's library, especially with its self-service smart checkout machines. I found all 4 of my books gradually, with more assistance from floor staff because one was in the New Fiction collection, not the permanent Fiction side. Despite the apparent busyness/popularity of the library, I was able to find a cozy spot to get things done on Floor 6. I'm looking forward to many more years of time in this gem of a building! read more

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I haven't been a teenager in many years, but something about the teen section at the Austin Central Library made me want to check it out. As we walked in, a friendly librarian in the teen room welcomed us with a smile and later she said, "Anyone can drive through here, but only teenagers can park." The first thing I noticed was the teen music section--keyboards, drum sets, guitars, synthesizers, and computers all set up and ready to use. Then I spotted the Legos displayed on top of the bookshelves, all built by teens. They were seriously impressive! A nearby screen was rotating announcements for various clubs: cosplay club, Lego design club, film club, book & craft club--so many fun options. The whole space felt vibrant and full of life. The reading area had plenty of seating and desks, plus a big collection of board games. Oh, and of course, the books! The selection was broad, interesting, and they even had DVDs. Honestly, I'm a little jealous of the teens in Austin--they've got an amazing space to explore and hang out in! read more

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I am of the opinion that the public library will always be relevant, even in the Digital Age. Folks always need a quiet place to study, and yes occasionally print media is useful. Reading textbooks or your favorite comics/graphic novels on tablet just isn't the same. The Austin Library is ultra modern and a great place to visit. It is a role model for all other modern libraries. Libraries are more than a gym for the mind, they can also bring communities together. * Giant Chess Set and chess events * D&D nights! * Rooftop Terrace * 3D Printers * Infant/toddler play area * Security Office with lots of guards * Cool, modern look including the floating staircases. The only thing missing is access to coffee and food. They have soft drinks machines and used to have a restaurant downstairs years ago. Pay parking is available in the grave on the lower level. read more

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This library rocks! It is so large that it has its own gift shop and cafe inside. There are special meeting rooms, kids rooms, regular rooms, meeting rooms, and so many chairs and tables throughout the six floors! There is an underground 2-floor parking garage (tight so be careful maneuvering) that is free for the first hour. My favorite was the view from the outside garden on the top floor. read more

Austin Central Library - view looking back at the stairs - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I love visiting libraries its such a fun activity during the summer to stay cool! There is a cafe inside the library (Cafe Crème ) They serve food and drinks! I ordered a matcha latte and it was delicious! I visited on a Tuesday at about 10 AM and it wasn't too busy. There are several areas to sit and read, work, or study indoor and outdoor. I sat on the rooftop outdoor area worked and read a little bit, it was quiet. The library is beautiful and The views of the city are also really pretty! There are lots of activities and events that the library offers like this Line Dancing class :) I cant wait to visit again I'll be ordering another matcha for sure probably one of my favorite Matchas that Ive had here in Austin! There is a parking garage that is attached to the building but it was full when I went. There is paid parking on the street and there are also other paid parking garages that you can park in I didn't see Free Parking though not sure if there is any. read more

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This is the best public library in the States that I've ever stepped foot in so far. There's even a cat-themed cafe downstairs that my bestie and I adored visiting and talked each other into and then out of getting so many cutie trinkets or merch (yes their cafe sells merch haha). There are 6 floors, an elevator, wide wooden stairwells that are so artistically and dramatically placed that invite you want to climb them, as I always end up doing. We actually decided to visit this library twice together, and each time is equally enjoyable. The first time was a handful of years ago around the time they first opened in 2018 and they were having a showcase on Studio Ghibli and there was intricate artwork dedicated to it in on the 2nd or 3rd floor display. This time, there were other textile-based artwork in that same display, as well as a whole exhibit on the ground floor you could peruse! I love that they incorporate not just books and media, but art and cultural infusion which usually highlights the surrounding communities and their interests. There are other floors with a techy focus, like a 3-D printer area which I can appreciate. There's even a section upstairs that has a bunch of board games, including more niche ones. Very cool that they offer things for people from all walks of life, you'll never be bored here. And the best part imo is the rooftop area where you can relax and lounge around outside, peeping the other tall buildings that make up the downtown Austin skyline. Stunning spot for photos and sippin' on your coffee or smoothie you got from that cafe earlier. There is a 2-floor underground garage available you can use, but do note they'll charge you if you stay longer than 30 min. It's verrrry hard not to go past this restricted time, but just consider it a donation to the city if you stay for longer which we usually do haha. Don't rush and enjoy the space! A must see if you have time in ATX. read more

I love visiting libraries in other cities and Austin Central Library is a really cool place with 8 floors along with a rooftop deck. The floating staircases are an architectural draw. Each floor has different sections with tables and chairs. There are plentiful, places to read. here. There are some fun things to check out at the ACL and we walked around. My first business was to get a library card. I was able to fill out the application on one of the computers in the lobby. Well, it turns out that if you are not a resident of Austin, you can't get a "free" library card unless you pay $120 per year (non-resident fee). Since I am not a resident of Texas, I declined to pay the fee. I'll stick with the libraries in California, thank you. Anyway, we were turned onto this library as it was a few blocks away from our hotel. We visited on a cloudy, misty day, so not too many people were out on the rooftop, but a lot were in the library. read more

Austin Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Completely replacing the old library, the main Austin Central library was opened to the public in 2017. It is very distinctive, with 6 floors surrounding a six story open air atrium that has a floating staircase criss-crossing the space. It was designed to be expandable, in that the current set-up has plenty of space for people and books. There are many areas where one can sit and read/work, along with an open air roof-top garden with a great view of the surrounding city and Colorado River. It also has parking in the large 2 story garage, enough space for 140 spots. It is free for the first hour. read more

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Beautiful view, quiet and chill spot to get some work done. They have a lil cafe style coffee shop located on the 1st floor as well. Definitely worth the trip and will be coming g back. read more

Pros - Great view of the Colorado revir and the bridge. Feels very scenic outside as you step outside of cafe creme. - fast wifi Cons - despite being an extra-ordinary location: view from the outdoor patio is unbeatable! However, for some reason, lot of sketchy people seem to be around businesses in this Area especially the library. Crime rate is pretty high. So, be careful and be aware of safety situations which ocassionally arises out of nowhere. There hasn't been a day I haven't seen Police, EMS around here. Some bad incidents seem to be always happening around. It feels like as if bad people and crimes are ruining the beautiful parts of Austin City. - has no tall bar / tall seats read more

The library itself is very beautiful and spacious. Parking garage is convenient. They offer kids activities through the week. However, the homeless situation makes me avoid this place. They have security on the first floor, but you never know. I had a strange person following us in elevator and on stairs once. Another woman, who used substances was around. I would be maybe ok, when on my own, but not with kids. It's just not safe and not sanitary. I prefer to go to suburb area libraries. I don't see this happening anywhere but downtown Austin library. read more

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I am still very fond of the Austin Central Library, and I thought that I should update my review to bump it up to five stars. I wrote my original review during a time when I was less filtered. I think that I had just chosen some seating areas that were more open and noisy. My favourite spots are on the 5th or 6th floor on the east side facing the lake. There aren't many tables on that side, so they fill up quickly. It is consistently quiet whenever I sit there, probably because it is so deep into the library. The parking garage is expensive, but that just encourages me to take the bus or come when downtown street parking is free on Sundays. read more

Austin Central Library - 6th floor overlooking Lady Bird Lake - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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ChatGBT suggested to tour this place and I was confused at first until I entered - not only is the architecture stunning with many art elements, but there seems to be something for everyone in this massive library! Parking is free for the first 2 hours. As a tourist, I zoomed by mainly to see the rooftop garden views which were stunning and there's a lot of lounge areas and seating for people to bring food and chat, as well as read a book or work on a laptop. They have many desks and rooms for students and remote workers. The kids area is fun and whimsical. As we left, they were even passing out food from a cooking demonstration earlier. Definitely a worthwhile visit whether you just want to spend 15 minutes or an hour, it's near City Hall and a close walk to other touristy destinations. Or maybe you want a rest or shield from the Austin heat! read more

Austin Central Library - Stairwell - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I love this library. They have a lot of good materials and awesome volunteers. The event was story time and a Scavenger hunt. The kids loved it. Susan and patty ran the event like clock work. Great event. read more

Austin Central Library - Central library. - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

The wifi in this beautiful building is horrible. Don't try to work on something without auto save on or your gonna lose it when the wifi drops one of the 1000 times a day it does. All this money on the building you think they could afford decent wifi. read more

WOW this library is huge and SO beautiful! There is free parking for 1 hour in the underground garage. Only complaint is that I do feel nervous when I come out of the parking garage elevator and there are homeless people all around asking for money before you go in the library main doors. Once inside, the library itself is several floors and really looks like a museum. I got my library card and the process was pretty in depth. I had to prove my address with mail showing I lived in the county. The staff were friendly and gave me a map and directions. I have ordered books for pick up several times and it is quick and easy to run in and pick them up from the reserved shelves. Even the self check out is quick and easy. There is a beautiful rooftop overlooking the city. I would definitely spend more time here if they validated parking for more than 1 hour. By the time I get in, get my book, get to the rooftop and start reading, 1 hour is not enough time. The daylight inside is so bright and there are plenty of indoor reading spots. Can't wait to explore this library when I have more time soon! read more

Austin Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

Wow! I love to visit libraries whenever visiting a new city; they are often great works of art. The stunning 200,000 square foot Austin Central Library is a great example. When you walk in, the first thing you notice are the floating staircases that connect the six stories. We walked them all and took a quick peek at each floor but I'd love to go back and spend a couple of hours exploring this impressive library. read more

Austin Central Library - beautiful stained glass - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Cool library. The parking lot was full when I arrived. Had to circle a couple of times looking for street parking. People came to eat their lunch on the rooftop. Amazing! read more

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This was my work from home day, so I decided I needed a change of scenery. This library is the absolute cutest! Love the aesthetics! So much creativity everywhere. So many sitting spaces and private rooms. The rooftop outdoor sitting space allowed for a beautiful view of Austin! The only con, is that you have to pay to park. Other than that, beautiful library. read more

Austin Central Library - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

The Central Library has a great selection of materials and is well utilized by patrons. But they really need to address the parking garage. We checked out with our parking ticket inside prior to leaving and owed nothing. By the time we exited the parking garage after waiting for 10 other cars to exit in front of us, we now owed $5! Not happy with having to pay to wait in line to exit! read more

Still great! The place is always amazing, so many things to do for adults and children, the staff is amazing and always friendly. It can be choatic at times and more so our most recent visit as one of 3 elevators was done which slowed things up but there are stairs if you are in a hurry or prefer. We mostly stopped in this time as my wife Shana, now has her most recent book in the Austin Public Library which is amazing! We both love libraries and for both of us they were safe places that made our childhood's better. I can't overstate how excited she is to have her book there. The Santa Strike, if you get to the Austin Public Library, check it out(ha)!. The only real downside is the closing of the Cookbook restaurant. It was nice to be able to get a drink and maybe some food there for staying longer but I am not holding it against them, hence still 5 stars but it is missed. We didn't stay long this visit as we were on a schedule but realized I had not updated my review in a while. Place is still awesome and I can't overplay how great it is. Several stories, ha again, and outdoor/rooftop seating. VISIT THE LIBRARY. SUPPORT THE LIBRARY! read more

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First time visiting the library. One of the best library's I been to in Austin would come again soon. The one thing I did not like about the library is there are a lot of homeless people everywhere in the library. Makes being at the library uncomfortable and stinks and furniture is dirty. read more

The library is very spacious, with plenty of seating and a modern design. An excellent place to study. We visited around 1 p.m., and the parking garage was already full, so we had to park outside, which turned out to be more affordable anyway. The rooftop garden was a charming touch and a nice spot to take a break. One downside we noticed was the presence of a significant amount of homeless individuals inside the library. While public libraries are open to everyone, some visitors appeared to be under the influence, which made parts of the experience feel a bit uncomfortable. read more

As a recent college graduate continuing my education, I have spent thousands of hours at libraries, and by far, this is the most beautiful library that I have been to. There are 6 floors in this state of the art public library. The first floor is more general with the help desk and has a cafe. The 2nd floor is more for children as they have a massive room just for kiddos to do activities with their parents. The 3rd-5th floors have study rooms that are available to reserve along with books of course. And the 6th floor has study rooms and has great access to the rooftop which is by far the most impressive. Parking is available at the parking garage underneath the library, typically when I spend 4-6 hours here I end up paying around $10 for my visit which is pricey for public library parking. It is downtown parking, I think it might be pricey because there is a chance that other folks park there just to explore downtown. At times it can be frustrating to get a spot because when they are near full or are expecting a large group to attend the library (likely for an event), they will block the entrance of the parking garage with a "full" sign. Other than parking, my experiences at the central library have been very pleasant. There are many tables and sitting areas with room for laptops and homework in common areas as well as tucked back areas by the shelves of books. Getting a library card is simple and quick, the staff is very helpful in guiding you through that process as well as the process of reserving conference rooms. A large plus to going here are the study rooms. Using a QR code link or through google, you can easily reserve 1 study room a day using 1 email. The reservation slots are typically for 2 hours and there are rooms that hold up to 16 people! Most rooms have a screen with an HDMI to broadcast a presentation, a white board with markers, and outlets for chargers. Although I have not rented out electronics such as laptops or tablets, it is my understanding that you can do so all day. If you would like to eat food, you can do so outside on the patios and the rooftop on the 6th floor. The outdoor areas are very zen with plants and comfortable chairs. It is one of the most beautiful rooftops, it suprises me everytime that a rooftop like this exists in a library!! Although most of my time is spent in quiet areas studying, I am aware that there are many social events that go on weekly. They at times have musical bands and very niche groups such as ones that practice their English communication skills by speaking English back and forth to each other. Overall, I love this place! It is worth spending the $10 every time I come here. It is quiet, clean, inviting and a safe space with lots of security. read more

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You can totally spend an entire day here. So many floors and lots of books. The view from the top floor is beautiful overlooking the water. Parking is in a garage and you do have to pay read more

Austin Central Library - View from top floor - Libraries Near Me - Austin, Texas

Convenient, safe & free parking. Easy access to the library. Beautiful architecture. Lots of nooks and crannies and lovely views. It's a gem. I will be back often. read more

This was by far the most modern looking library I've ever been too. Everything was clean and new looking with plenty of workspaces. The rooftop is stunning and the views are just as good! I would definitely recommend stopping in if you are local or just visiting Austin. There is even a rotating art exhibit on the main floor and a very cute gift shop. read more

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Hands down the best library I've been to. There's tons of space and lots of beautiful views. I interacted with a couple staff members and they were all kind and helpful. This library has a little bit of everything for every age group. I would spend more time here if it was closer to me. I highly recommend it! read more

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My new workplace is in Austin but it doesn't count as your residence to get a library card that's why it's a three for me. Best public library I've seen so far in Texas. Homeless people are able to access the premises for computer needs etc. impressed with how people are in order and the way the floors were divided. Liked the rooftop concept with solar panel ceiling. Teen room was cool. Quiet rooms were quiet! All I asked for in a library plus 3D printers were accessible! Great amount of plugs for your devices. Affordable parking. read more

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At the birthday boy's request, we took a walk to the Austin Central Library, which is one of the nicest, most interesting libraries I've ever been in. The architecture, both inside and out were beautifully designed with materials that worked well with the terraced walkway along the creek. The staircase evokes both M.C. Escher and Harry Potter! The roof top garden had tremendous views. The 3rd floor quiet room at the Austin Central Library, is something else. Great views and all sorts of book and reading quotes etched into a metal screen outside the window. Truly inspiring. Bravo Austin! read more

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