Austin’s Central Library, located in the Seaholm District, is one of the city’s most beautiful public spaces. Opened in 2018, the library serves as a modern technology and information hub that reflects Austin’s vibrant culture and unique soul. The space reflects natural characteristics of the Hill Country, bringing in mesquite and oak woods, a rooftop garden with the largest solar installation in Downtown Austin and picturesque views of Shoal Creek and Lady Bird Lake from every angle. Programming is diverse and accessible to locals and visitors alike, from cooking demos and family-friendly activities to a gift shop and cafe. The library has an informal Town Hall feel and offers tons of resources, activities and, of course, spaces to hunker down with a good book.
About Austin Central Library
The Library has a grand total of six floors, 200,000 square feet, 200 bike parking spaces, more than 350,000 books and 13 shared learning rooms that can be used for clubs, activities or private events. Within the library there are more than 500 individual seats, 140 public-use computers and 150 self-check electronic devices. Beyond the typical library offerings, the Central Library has a few special amenities:
Gallery Space: This space is used to showcase local artists and rotates regularly. Though not for sale, guests are encouraged to peruse through the art and can support the artists by following their work.
Reading Porches: Perhaps one of the best features of the Central Library is the gorgeous reading porches that look over Shoal Creek and Lady Bird Lake. It seats more than 60 people and is a super comfortable way to enjoy the Austin outdoors while staying cool.
Rooftop Reading Deck: Grab a book and a coffee and head to the top floor of the library for stellar views of South Austin and Lady Bird Lake. The deck has plenty of seating options and whether you’re looking to get lost in your latest read or chat quietly with friends.
Unique Activities
This flexible library has many events and activities during the day. It hosts everything from crafty classes to Practiquemos Espanol (Let’s Practice Spanish) facilitated classes and toddler storytime to free health screenings. For private events, certain spaces in the Central Library are available to rent out.
No matter the occasion, the Central Library’s location in the vibrant hub of community, residential and office gathering spaces makes it a must-see place in Austin.
Hours & Accessibility
The Central Library is open Monday through Saturday. Please check the website for current hours.
The library offers two levels of pay-to-park underground parking. Metered street parking may also be also available on nearby streets and there are numerous places to park bikes surrounding the library.
Entrances to the building offer automatic door openers, and elevators are available to access multiple levels of the building. If you require an accommodation in order to access any library materials, services, programs or public computers, please communicate with library staff. For more information about accessibility accommodations please call 512-974-7400.
