10 Best Libraries in Arizona!
If you’re a bookworm, the library is your haven. The impressive libraries of Arizona offer a space to study in peace or the ideal spot to curl up with your favorite book. Looking to get your child involved in an after-school program? Want to attend a community art event? This is the ultimate gathering place. Here are the best libraries in the state.
Scottsdale Public Library - Civic Center Library, Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale touts itself as “America’s Most Livable City,” and it’s easy to see why. There’s no shortage of sunshine, shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities in this desert city. Thanks to the Scottsdale Public Library, however, Scottsdale is one of the top destinations for bookworms. The Scottsdale Public Library encompasses five locations each with youth and teen services in addition to reading-centric events. The best of its locations is the Scottsdale Civic Center Library. This 103,000-square-foot library includes 73 public use computers and is open seven days per week. It’s also home to the Eureka Loft, a collaborative workspace that is free and open to the public.
Tempe Public Library, Tempe, AZ
The Tempe Public Library is one of the biggest and most popular libraries in the state. This 120,000-square-foot library boasts over one million visitors every year. That popularity can be attributed to a state-of-the-art facility filled with thousands of books and a number of computers. The library also has two rentable meeting rooms for those looking for extra privacy. Tempe Public Library also hosts Tempe Galleries by showcasing the works of local artists in their building.
Mesquite Branch Library, Phoenix, AZ
Kids love reading at Mesquite Branch Library. This stellar Phoenix library offers a number of children and teen events, including reading programs, story times, and crafts. Mesquite Branch Library, part of the Phoenix Pubic Library, has been a go-to spot for local readers since opening in 1982. After an expansion in 1982, the library grew to include public use computers and meeting spaces. They also have a “used book corner,” where you can purchase old hand-me-down books for discounted prices.
Cholla Library, Phoenix, AZ
Cholla Library may have opened in 1977, but it has no shortage of modern conveniences. You can enjoy public use computers, comfortable chairs, and a huge selection of CDs and DVDs at this Phoenix library. Cholla is part of the Phoenix Public Library system. This 30,000-square-foot library has two stories, two study rooms, and a multi-purpose meeting room for up to 75 people. Cholla also offers culture passes to local museums and attractions.
Sedona Public Library, Sedona, AZ
Are you looking to read outdoors? Then make a trip to Sedona Public Library. It serves as the de-facto library in the Sedona area, which is known for its scenic red rocks and small town serenity. You can grab one of their 600,000 books to enjoy in the great outdoors. The Sedona Public Library was founded in 1958 but went through extensive renovations in 2002. Today, this volunteer-run library offers educational programs, Internet, and books for all ages.
Joel D Valdez Main Library, Tucson, AZ
There are plenty of reasons to like the Joel D Valdez Main Library. This three-story Tucson library has a wide variety of books, events, and public events. It’s also part of the Pima County Public Library, which has 26 locations throughout Pima County. His tech savvy library uses an online catalog and smartphone app to make it easy to rent books. They also are a “Seed Library,” where locals can collect and donate open-pollinated and heirloom seeds for gardening.
Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library, Flagstaff, AZ
Flagstaff may be a small town, but it’s big on books. The Flagstaff City - Coconino County Public Library system has over 40,000 registered cardholders in a city of only 70,000 people. The main library not only carries a huge selection of books, but also entertainment and research related materials as well. You’ll find CDs, DVDs, magazines, periodicals, and newspapers at this small-town library.
Acacia Library, Phoenix, AZ
Acacia Library may not be the biggest library in Arizona. This Phoenix Public Library is only 6,600 square-feet. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. It’s the perfect place to cozy up with a book and get away from crowds. Acacia doesn’t have the biggest selection of books onsite, but you can request any book available via the Phoenix Public Library system to put on hold. Acacia also has meeting spaces, a multi-purpose room, and free Wi-Fi.
Prescott Public Library, Prescott, AZ
Small town charm, local events, and dedicated followers. Yes, Prescott Public Library has it all. This northern Arizona library is part of the Yavapai Library Network, which has a catalog of over one million library items. The library has more than just books, however. It also has a large selection of artwork donated by the local community. The Prescott Public Library also has an onsite coffee shop and café where you can relax and read your latest book.
Chandler Public Library, Chandler, AZ
The main library is situated in downtown Chandler, but there are additional branches in Sunset, Basha, and Hamilton. Not only is this library a great resource for books, but guests will find research spaces, a job resource center, and family-friendly events.
