10 Best Libraries in Utah!
Libraries are more than just shelves of books and quiet study nooks. They are gathering places and centers of knowledge. If you’re looking for a place to research, relax, or enjoy community events, check out the best libraries in Utah.
Salt Lake City Library, Salt Lake City, UT
Located in downtown Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake City Library is known for its unique architectural beauty and rich history. Although the library is currently housed in a different building than when it was founded in 1898, the library has maintained a dignified reputation throughout the state for the entirety of its existence. This library is Utah’s library of libraries, and it would be a shame not to take advantage of its resources.
Provo City Library at Academy Square, Provo, UT
Provo City Library is a large (but still quaint!) community hub for Utah Valley residents that regularly holds events for people of all ages, and that makes a point of prioritizing families. Here, you can find all the greatest books, take classes, conduct research, attend regular storytelling events with your kids, and talk to librarians about their favorite page turners. This is a classic public library, but better.
Orem Public Library, Orem, UT
People swear by the Orem Public Library, and it’s hard to complain when two of the state’s best libraries (Provo and Orem) are so close to each other. Every day, something interesting is happening at the Orem Public Library, and you’ll love all of the library’s incredible DVD selection and beautiful stained-glass windows.
J. Willard Marriott Library at the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
As a state university library, the Marriott Library at the University of Utah is technically a facility for current University of Utah students, faculty, and staff. That said, the library welcomes visitors, as long as they are there for a purpose. And while you won’t be able to check books out from the library, you will be able to find a wealth of information there. If you want to use the library’s online resources, you can get a guess pass when you arrive at the library.
Harold B. Lee Library at Brigham Young University, Provo, UT
Similar to the University of Utah’s library, Brigham Young University’s library is open to the public, but at limited access. Certain individuals, however (including library “patrons” who donate $50 to the library each year) can have access to the library’s resources, which includes being able to borrow books for three weeks at a time. The Harold B. Lee Library (or the HBLL, as it is known on campus) is an incredible collection of print, video, and online resources, and is a national leader in all things library.
Springville Public Library, Springville, UT
Built a few years ago, the Springville Public Library is very up-to-date. It isn’t a particularly big library (Springville isn’t a particularly big town) but it plays a very important role in the community. The library features special programs/events for people of all ages, and even has a weekly “Coding Club,” where kids and teenagers can learn basic coding skills.
Pleasant Grove City Library, Pleasant Grove, UT
Another relatively small library, Pleasant Grove City Library nevertheless manages to do a lot for its community. In addition to its literacy program, the library offers homework help for teens and has a “LEGO Club” for all of the LEGO fanatics out there. This is a great place to find a book, or just to hang out.
Logan Library, Logan, UT
The Logan Library is constantly seeking ways to better fulfill its community’s needs, to give Logan residents access to important sources of information and learning. As with most successful libraries, at the Logan Library, you’ll find computers, books, movies, a media lab, meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and sincere, passionate librarians.
St. George Library, St. George, UT
A division of the Washington County Library System, the St. George Library is located in a beautiful, historic building, and aims to provide what it calls “open, non-judgmental access to collections and services without regard to race, citizenship, age, educational level, economic status, religion, or any other qualifications or conditions.” This charming, Southern Utah library is on a mission to serve everyone.
Cedar City Public Library, Cedar City, UT
Although there has been a library in Cedar City for over 100 years, the current Cedar City library was opened in 2003. This library is a particularly interesting place to go, given its commitment to local history. In addition to “normal” library activities, the Cedar City Public Library places an emphasis on genealogy, and is a good resource for those who are curious to learn more about their ancestors.
