Seattle Public Library - Central Library Photos
More like Seattle Public Library - Central Library
Recommended Reviews - Seattle Public Library - Central Library
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Came here for my first time ever and I was a bit underwhelmed by the red floor. Never seen anything like that in any other library that I have been to, but the pictures online did it so much justice that it did not live up to my headinthecloud expectations. Not many photo shoots here, which is surprising because this would be that type of location if we were in LA or something lol 5 floors with so many books, public libraries, events going on. Even allowing eating areas by the windows, which I never seen in any other library. The fact that there is seven a mini café blew my mind because how do you not want to spend all your days here? I just wish that there was free parking nearby. quite a bit of homeless people here, so it really is a home for many people, which I think is beautiful. I love the lighting in this place with the glass pane structure. Hard to keep your eyes off the beauty of this place when you have to be focused to study on your books or screen. I wish that I lived here, but with the mentioned tweaks above accounted for !
This building is a work of art. Coupled with its services and amenities, this library is now my favorite in the United States. It's a dynamic public space, open 10am-6pm every day (and until 8pm Tuesdays-to-Thursdays). There's a community bulletin board, art to appreciate, board games to borrow (to play there, not takeaway), an auditorium, computers to browse the web, plenty of power outlets, DVDs to rent, and a cute gift shop ($1 book deals!). Plenty of seating, free Wi-Fi, restrooms. There's a filtered water dispenser (bring a water bottle!). To my surprise, there's a cafe ("Howdy Y'all Coffee", open all week except Sundays) on-site. Oh, there are books too. Recommendation: Visit the 10th floor! It has a huge naturally-lit reading room. A serene oasis in downtown Seattle.
Impressive architecture, going beyond just your common public library. It's HUGE with rich collections and honestly perfect spot to chill, study, and work. They had great coffee shop too and secondhand books at very affordable prices starting from $1!
One of the most beautiful libraries in the U.S. is this 11-story masterpiece on a hill overlooking Seattle and the water. There's an underground parking garage or simply walk there since it's in downtown Seattle. Clear signage throughout is helpful in wandering 10 floors of thousands of books, maps, and more. There's plenty of seating, a gift shop, a cafe, reading rooms, computers, and more. Outlets for charging are everywhere. If you love travel, their travel section is among the best I've seen. Spend an hour walking up stairs or using the elevator to see the stunning architecture and views of the city.
What a beautiful library! Such a cool spot and it's huge, with 11 floors. I suggest checking out the 4th floor to see the red floor, it's so trippy! So fun to just wander around and see all the different areas. I suggest using a bathroom on a higher level.
This was the most unique experience I've ever had in a library! It's like a work of art from the outer architecture to the inner interior decor! Every floor is different and they even have get this an actual look out on the top floor of the library! It's just amazing! So many floors and so much to marvel at. There's not only history in the books on the shelves but they have it built into the entire place! This was one of my favorite stops in Seattle! My only downside to the place is they wouldn't let me get a library card since I don't live in the area! I wish libraries would let you join no matter where you live. Staff was super friendly about it but to no avail!
I came here for the architecture. I left impressed beyond the architecture. Seattle Public Library Central Branch is probably most known for their unique architecture which can be best appreciated outside or inside on the 10th floor. NOTABLES: 0. Before I get started, there are so many unique and cool things, be sure to pick up a "library map" on the third floor entrance or at information desks. In addition to laying out the various floors, it has a phone tour. You can call the phone number and listen to a tour as you wander the library. 1. Spiral bookcase on Floors 6-10. Basically, the floor is slanted and "winds up" these floors. Very unique. 2. Floors 3 and 5. Where you can eat in select areas. 3. Floor 3: Friends of Library gift and book store. 4. Floor 3 or 4 had arts and crafts the day we went. 5. There are also genealogical archives somewhere on prem.
OMG! This was the first time I had ever been inside of this public library and I was instantly inspired. Not just because of the architecture, but it does have a lot to do with it since the way it was built gives you access and views to multiple parts of the library at once. There is an ample amount of space for people to enjoy in whatever setting they prefer to use a library. What I mean by that is there are open space rooms for more interaction vs. quieter individual spaces, . there is a beautiful map room that I've never encountered that has a collage called bibliotopia that I feel changed my brain chemistry so try to check it out before as well as the red floor. I also read some pamphlets where they offer different courses at the library, including a genealogy class and it made me sad because I don't live in Seattle and I just wish my local city library had these options. Lol This library also offers many restrooms and feels very inviting. I wanna go back to Seattle just so I can spend time at this library.
Beautiful library really. Nothing else I could say except that everyone should make this a tourist attraction and visit here at least once in their life! 10 floors with so many areas for computer work, reading, lounging, etc. I did visit the top of the view outlook and it was quite scary...
This is one of my favorite libraries I've ever been to! We are so lucky to have this gem in Seattle. An absolutely beautiful building with so many resources. I've gotten a document notarized for free, used archival materials for research, checked out plenty of books, and seen live music here. They also do book talks and have activities for children and adults alike. The 10th floor has some great views of the city. You can get lost and explore here for hours. Support our libraries!
As a local occasionally with time to kill while I am in downtown, I finally discovered the downtown library is an awesome place to do exactly that - hang out, wander, browse, and get free books (yes, you read that right, free to keep!) Though I have visited this Central Library branch through the eyes of a visitor, I don't tend to look at it through the eyes of a local. A few notes for the locals: - All King Country residents qualify for a library card. - Any items checked out from here needs to be returned to one of the Seattle Library branches, not to a King County library. - For those leery of the safety inside, it is perfectly safe with security guards walking the halls. There are some houseless folks inside; they have the right to be there. They keep to themselves and are quiet. - Some spaces are closed during certain days, especially the weekend. - This library has a treasure trove of history; some items are on display on the 10th floor. - A free book rack was on the main floor just inside the 4th floor entrance. Don't know if that is available all the time. My odd viewpoint is that despite the architectural accolades of this building, I am less impressed with the building and more impressed with the contents and the staff. I looked with jealousy at the nearly complete sets of manga ready to borrow. Maybe in the winter, I will borrow a stack to hibernate at home. A super cheerful staff member greeted me on the 3rd floor (5th Avenue counter). The staff at the 4th Avenue counter were helpful and informative.
The library was cool! I had some free time and was with some friends. We all are studying architectural design and our teachers mention this building pretty much every other class we take. It is interesting to see all the different floors. There's an escalator that'll take you to the 10th. There are a variety of spaces and there were many people there when we visited. Rating a 4 because directly outside it smelled foul and I think it could be maintained a little better. Inside there are valuable community resources where people were accessing computers to further their education and file taxes.
Beautiful library with an incredibly extensive collection. Visit all of the floors (not just for the view) but to see the collections. There is even a map room. It was fun to weave our way up to the top floor and meander through each level. There are stairs, escalators, and even an elevator- you can sort of pick and choose how you spiral up to the top floor. The architecture is stunning as well. Lots of interesting programs and events. Lots and lots of work spaces. It's a great library and this must be so fun to have as your local library. . Check out the Friends of the Library store on the entrance level. Great used books but also lots of gift ideas. You could get your Seattle souvenirs here easily.
Fun and interesting architecture for a public library. They have a paid parking lot, which is crazy for a public library. The first 20 mins are free and after that it's $4 per 20 minutes. Lots of areas to read and relax. Very spacious, has a coffee shop inside. Larger than most other public libraries. Free WiFi and public bathrooms available. The ambiance is nice. It's a rip off to have to pay for parking. read more
28 days ago
Came here for my first time ever and I was a bit underwhelmed by the red floor. Never seen anything like that in any other library that I have been to, but the pictures online did it so much justice that it did not live up to my headinthecloud expectations. Not many photo shoots here, which is surprising because this would be that type of location if we were in LA or something lol 5 floors with so many books, public libraries, events going on. Even allowing eating areas by the windows, which I never seen in any other library. The fact that there is seven a mini café blew my mind because how do you not want to spend all your days here? I just wish that there was free parking nearby. quite a bit of homeless people here, so it really is a home for many people, which I think is beautiful. I love the lighting in this place with the glass pane structure. Hard to keep your eyes off the beauty of this place when you have to be focused to study on your books or screen. I wish that I lived here, but with the mentioned tweaks above accounted for ! read more
This building is a work of art. Coupled with its services and amenities, this library is now my favorite in the United States. It's a dynamic public space, open 10am-6pm every day (and until 8pm Tuesdays-to-Thursdays). There's a community bulletin board, art to appreciate, board games to borrow (to play there, not takeaway), an auditorium, computers to browse the web, plenty of power outlets, DVDs to rent, and a cute gift shop ($1 book deals!). Plenty of seating, free Wi-Fi, restrooms. There's a filtered water dispenser (bring a water bottle!). To my surprise, there's a cafe ("Howdy Y'all Coffee", open all week except Sundays) on-site. Oh, there are books too. Recommendation: Visit the 10th floor! It has a huge naturally-lit reading room. A serene oasis in downtown Seattle. read more
26 days ago
Impressive architecture, going beyond just your common public library. It's HUGE with rich collections and honestly perfect spot to chill, study, and work. They had great coffee shop too and secondhand books at very affordable prices starting from $1! read more
One of the most beautiful libraries in the U.S. is this 11-story masterpiece on a hill overlooking Seattle and the water. There's an underground parking garage or simply walk there since it's in downtown Seattle. Clear signage throughout is helpful in wandering 10 floors of thousands of books, maps, and more. There's plenty of seating, a gift shop, a cafe, reading rooms, computers, and more. Outlets for charging are everywhere. If you love travel, their travel section is among the best I've seen. Spend an hour walking up stairs or using the elevator to see the stunning architecture and views of the city. read more
5 months ago
What a beautiful library! Such a cool spot and it's huge, with 11 floors. I suggest checking out the 4th floor to see the red floor, it's so trippy! So fun to just wander around and see all the different areas. I suggest using a bathroom on a higher level. read more
This was the most unique experience I've ever had in a library! It's like a work of art from the outer architecture to the inner interior decor! Every floor is different and they even have get this an actual look out on the top floor of the library! It's just amazing! So many floors and so much to marvel at. There's not only history in the books on the shelves but they have it built into the entire place! This was one of my favorite stops in Seattle! My only downside to the place is they wouldn't let me get a library card since I don't live in the area! I wish libraries would let you join no matter where you live. Staff was super friendly about it but to no avail! read more
14 days ago
1 year ago
I came here for the architecture. I left impressed beyond the architecture. Seattle Public Library Central Branch is probably most known for their unique architecture which can be best appreciated outside or inside on the 10th floor. NOTABLES: 0. Before I get started, there are so many unique and cool things, be sure to pick up a "library map" on the third floor entrance or at information desks. In addition to laying out the various floors, it has a phone tour. You can call the phone number and listen to a tour as you wander the library. 1. Spiral bookcase on Floors 6-10. Basically, the floor is slanted and "winds up" these floors. Very unique. 2. Floors 3 and 5. Where you can eat in select areas. 3. Floor 3: Friends of Library gift and book store. 4. Floor 3 or 4 had arts and crafts the day we went. 5. There are also genealogical archives somewhere on prem. read more
1 year ago
OMG! This was the first time I had ever been inside of this public library and I was instantly inspired. Not just because of the architecture, but it does have a lot to do with it since the way it was built gives you access and views to multiple parts of the library at once. There is an ample amount of space for people to enjoy in whatever setting they prefer to use a library. What I mean by that is there are open space rooms for more interaction vs. quieter individual spaces, . there is a beautiful map room that I've never encountered that has a collage called bibliotopia that I feel changed my brain chemistry so try to check it out before as well as the red floor. I also read some pamphlets where they offer different courses at the library, including a genealogy class and it made me sad because I don't live in Seattle and I just wish my local city library had these options. Lol This library also offers many restrooms and feels very inviting. I wanna go back to Seattle just so I can spend time at this library. read more
9 months ago
Beautiful library really. Nothing else I could say except that everyone should make this a tourist attraction and visit here at least once in their life! 10 floors with so many areas for computer work, reading, lounging, etc. I did visit the top of the view outlook and it was quite scary... read more
This is one of my favorite libraries I've ever been to! We are so lucky to have this gem in Seattle. An absolutely beautiful building with so many resources. I've gotten a document notarized for free, used archival materials for research, checked out plenty of books, and seen live music here. They also do book talks and have activities for children and adults alike. The 10th floor has some great views of the city. You can get lost and explore here for hours. Support our libraries! read more
As a local occasionally with time to kill while I am in downtown, I finally discovered the downtown library is an awesome place to do exactly that - hang out, wander, browse, and get free books (yes, you read that right, free to keep!) Though I have visited this Central Library branch through the eyes of a visitor, I don't tend to look at it through the eyes of a local. A few notes for the locals: - All King Country residents qualify for a library card. - Any items checked out from here needs to be returned to one of the Seattle Library branches, not to a King County library. - For those leery of the safety inside, it is perfectly safe with security guards walking the halls. There are some houseless folks inside; they have the right to be there. They keep to themselves and are quiet. - Some spaces are closed during certain days, especially the weekend. - This library has a treasure trove of history; some items are on display on the 10th floor. - A free book rack was on the main floor just inside the 4th floor entrance. Don't know if that is available all the time. My odd viewpoint is that despite the architectural accolades of this building, I am less impressed with the building and more impressed with the contents and the staff. I looked with jealousy at the nearly complete sets of manga ready to borrow. Maybe in the winter, I will borrow a stack to hibernate at home. A super cheerful staff member greeted me on the 3rd floor (5th Avenue counter). The staff at the 4th Avenue counter were helpful and informative. read more
The library was cool! I had some free time and was with some friends. We all are studying architectural design and our teachers mention this building pretty much every other class we take. It is interesting to see all the different floors. There's an escalator that'll take you to the 10th. There are a variety of spaces and there were many people there when we visited. Rating a 4 because directly outside it smelled foul and I think it could be maintained a little better. Inside there are valuable community resources where people were accessing computers to further their education and file taxes. read more
Beautiful library with an incredibly extensive collection. Visit all of the floors (not just for the view) but to see the collections. There is even a map room. It was fun to weave our way up to the top floor and meander through each level. There are stairs, escalators, and even an elevator- you can sort of pick and choose how you spiral up to the top floor. The architecture is stunning as well. Lots of interesting programs and events. Lots and lots of work spaces. It's a great library and this must be so fun to have as your local library. . Check out the Friends of the Library store on the entrance level. Great used books but also lots of gift ideas. You could get your Seattle souvenirs here easily. read more
2 years ago
What an amazing library! We went to Seattle and it was crazy that the library came up on their "must see" lists a number of times. As a personal book lover, I obviously had to make the journey. Their library really does create a sense of community. There are different areas segregated for different activities, and a book spiral that allows someone to venture all 11 stories without having to take an elevator to each floor! It spirals through all the stacks within the center of the building. Truly an amazing feat. The building itself is gorgeous and I am so amazed at how this amazing place exists in this large urban area. I truly wished we have a place like this near me, but one can only dream. Well done, Seattle! read more
We decided to check out the library while in the area. It's huge! There's many people enjoying the library from its meeting spaces, computers, seating, and so forth. There are escalators that keep taking you to each floor. Security helps you feel safe in the large space. The architecture is magnificent with its exterior looking like a stack of books. The natural light beams from all the windows. I really enjoyed my walk through. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
2 years ago
I didn't know a library could be so big! 10 floors of books, magazines, movies, music, maps, art, research documents, and a whole section on just the city of Seattle. The library made a list of the 10 best public libraries in the country and I can see why. On the 10th floor there's plenty of seating for reading or working and even hanging out with friends. They have some photo op spots throughout the library because the building is just so cool. Make sure to check them out. The only downside is that there's a limited amount of street parking and they don't validate for the parking garage across the street. read more
2 months ago
2 years ago
One of the places I had bookmarked even before I arrived in Seattle was this public library. I love how this building looked like in photos and I wanted to check it out myself as well. This place is amazing going through the neon yellow escalators was fun and the place is very quiet but also so artistic. This building is solid and unique. If you have time I would say come here to look at it. Inside and outside. The windows are just out of this world. I'm so sad though that there is literally no one here but staff members. read more
One of the coolest, most beautiful libraries I've been to. It's full of books, but also has plenty of space for all ages to sit and read, work, or simply enjoy the sun streaming in through the windows. Staff is helpful and efficient and we always find someone with whom we can talk if we have questions. read more
I studied this building while studying Architecture in college. It was rewarding to be able to visit it in person to see the exterior structural curtain walls sloping away from you want inspiration to recognize the design and effort that went into it. Definitely a good visit just to see the architecture of the building which I think the staff are used to. read more
The architecture of this massive 10-story library is so unique! The design of the windows gives me airport vibes. Riding up the escalator was really trippy and a fun experience. I just popped in for a quick visit, so I didn't do any work here, but I saw many people working at their computers or reading. They have free wifi, which should be an obvious amenity, but I am a little traumatized after visiting the National Library in Singapore and realizing that I couldn't connect to their wifi without downloading the app on wifi first (a little catch 22). Free wifi in libraries is truly a wonderful amenity in the USA. read more
3 years ago
Seattle's library is by far of the prettiest libraries I've ever visited! The architectural design of it is flawless and with so many levels to the building, it felt endless. I love how many windows there are and how much lighting can shine through in the building. I absolutely loved exploring this library during my visit and would constantly be here if I lived in the city. If you're ever in Seattle, this is definitely a spot you need to check out. There are a limitless number of books and knowledge you can find here. There's also space upstairs to sit and study or get work done. It was truly a great visit and I really admire how much effort was put into this building. read more
This is a beautiful library! Lots of floors to explore with interesting architecture. I liked the red colored rooms. And the long escalator is also fun to ride! The staff were friendly. There is a small bookstore in the front and they sell $1-$4 books on sale. read more
What a beautiful library! It is a large library and very clean, and soooo many windows for some natural sunlight! While I didn't sit down and grab a book, I did walk around and explore. We went to the top floor and just gazed for a while. I'm glad we stopped by! read more
This library is amazing in every way! Outside it's an eye catcher because of the architecture. Inside it is multi functional. What's great is there is clean public bathrooms. Fun part is there's oldschool telephones you can use for free! read more
1 year ago
The building and the interior architectural design are incredible. One of the most beautiful libraries I've seen. However, the exterior surrounding areas are dirty, smell like urine and there are homeless people everywhere. read more
11 months ago
Excellent public library with glass walls and roofs that let light shine through. You can easily spend a day here and immerse yourself in the warm coffee and good reading. They have $1 books for sale in the corner and great deals to grab! read more
Probably one of the most unique libraries I have been to ever! The Seattle Public Library have a huge collection of books, and various levels for you to work depending on what kind of environment you are looking for. There is also a viewing area where you can see from the tallest point of the whole building but also to admire the architect of the place! I highly recommend if you are at Seattle to give this place a visit. Even if you are from Seattle, and the library isn't your spot, there are gift shops and historical items around the place that you can also take a look at. Honestly, I was able to be lost for hours at the place and I am not a library person. There isn't really parking here, but there are parking around the area (paid). but easy to walk around to things nearby. The place have 10 floors, and different themes on different floors. Do make sure to go on the website because certain floors including the top are closed on certain days of the week (I assume is due to funding and lack of staff supervision). read more
What a COOL library! You could spend the whole day here and still not have explored it all. This library is massive and modern and truly innovative! There are so many escalators throughout that take you up floors, so many different areas for different books, study alcoves, meeting/practice rooms, etc. etc. This is genuinely - in the best way possible - a library on steroids and is a literal PILLAR in the downtown Seattle area. I'm genuinely jealous of all those who live nearby and get to call this library as their 'local' library because man alive, I would've loved to have this giant skyscraper of a building as my library growing up! It's overwhelming in the best ways possible and I highly recommend a visit here for anyone who is a fan of libraries, even if this isn't a proper "tourist" destination in Seattle. I almost prefer it that way and only people genuinely interested in libraries, cool architecture, and just innovation would be in here checking it out IN ADDITION TO all the people who are using this library for its actual intended purposes of course haha! read more
Page 1 of 16
More info about Seattle Public Library - Central Library
1000 Fourth Ave
Seattle, WA 98104
Downtown
Directions
(206) 386-4636
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.spl.org/
Hours
Other Amenities
From the Business
Ask the Community - Seattle Public Library - Central Library
Is the parking free?
No - there is a small lot in the basement and it is extremely expensive - even for short term parking. If at all possible - use public transportation or walk.
Do you need a library card to enter this library?
Nope. But you will need one to check out materials.
Review Highlights - Seattle Public Library - Central Library
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
48 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
3 years ago
17 years ago
8 years ago
20 years ago
20 years ago
2 months ago
8 years ago
12 years ago
2 months ago
6 days ago
9 years ago
15 years ago
12 years ago
9 years ago
13 years ago
17 years ago
17 years ago
10 years ago
8 years ago
