Burton Barr Central Library

I had an amazing experience at the Burton Barr Central library! I’m visiting from Maine and procrastinated doing my schoolwork then my laptop wouldn’t work. The staff were incredibly kind, attentive, and genuinely dedicated to helping everyone. They went above and beyond to assist me with finding resources, answering questions, and making sure I had everything I needed. They let me use the computer until my homework was done which was due today. It’s clear they’re passionate about serving the community and creating a welcoming environment. They provide free sanitary products for women and other free resources to the community. The library itself was clean, quiet, and well-organized. Truly a great place to learn, relax, and connect with others—thank you to the staff for making it such a positive experience!

We came here because we were told it would be fun when the science center was unexpectedly closed. It's a beautiful library and I'm sure amazing for locals. We wish the activities were open on the day we visited. They had a great teen section that was being well used which I appreciated and my kids jumped right in for a game of chess. The kids' section is adorable if you have younger children. They also have a lot to offer the community. It's beautiful and I think the people they had working there were quite helpful.

The library I visited was quite impressive in terms of size. It had 5 floors and offered various workshops, a seed program, and a "cool area" that is especially enjoyable during the summer. Additionally, they had a security team and even presence of the Phoenix Police. However, I found the customer service to be lacking. When I opened my first card there, the staff member seemed knowledgeable but answered my questions in a rushed manner. I was also disappointed that as a new visitor, I wasn't provided with any introductory or verbal tour to help me navigate the 5-floor library. I had an interesting and somewhat uncomfortable experience in the women's bathroom on the 4th floor. Two of the four stalls were out of order, and when I used the remaining one, I got locked in. The stall walls were wobbly, and when the lady in the adjacent stall slammed her door, my door got stuck. Fortunately, she noticed my struggle and helped me get out. Regarding the parking situation, although the library has a small parking lot, it's quite convenient considering the limited parking in the area. However, the parking spots are narrow, so it may be a challenge if you drive a larger vehicle like a truck.

Excellent library, clean, neat a large amount of "un-housed" Americans but none offensive (unless too close) Not only books, DVD's, Audio books, and #Libby. Libby, a free android app, allows me to read or listen to materials available through the Phoenix Public library system.

This place is a gorgeous wonder! It's huge! There is so much to explore and experience.The library I visited was quite impressive in terms of size. It had 5 floors and offered various workshops, a seed program.Awesome summer programs for kids' birth to big kids like me! Dungeons & Dragons is meeting every Friday in the month of July

Amazing library. Great selection. Beautiful space. Super helpful and knowledgeable staff.

This place is a gorgeous wonder! It's huge! So much to explore and experience. Lots of homeless people spend the day there each day ... and it's a great reminder what an amazing service that public libraries are. It's nice and quiet even with so many people all throughout. The kids section is large and fun

Burton Barr Central Library is one of my favorite places to go for its lively downtown scene, park views, and beautiful architecture.

I came here to sign up for a library card. It was a very quick process. I walked around the first floor afterwards and there are lots of different sections with books. I did not go upstairs. But there were elevators available. There was some construction going on, so some of the parking was limited. But I was able to find a space near the main entrance. I'm looking forward to coming here to use the different resources they offer.

I visited was quite impressive in terms of size. It had 5 floors and offered various workshops, a seed program, and a "cool area" that is especially enjoyable during the summer. Additionally, they had a security team and even presence of the Phoenix Police. However, I found the customer service to be lacking. When I opened my first card there, the staff member seemed knowledgeable but answered my questions in a rushed manner. I was also disappointed that as a new visitor, I wasn't provided with any introductory or verbal tour to help me navigate the 5-floor library. I had an interesting and somewhat uncomfortable experience in the women's bathroom on the 4th floor. Two of the four stalls were out of order, and when I used the remaining one, I got locked in. The stall walls were wobbly, and when the lady in the adjacent stall slammed her door, my door got stuck. Fortunately, she noticed my struggle and helped me get out. Regarding the parking situation, although the library has a small parking lot, it's quite convenient considering the limited parking in the area. However, the parking spots are narrow, so it may be a challenge if you drive a larger vehicle like a truck.

Fantastic library. They were under construction for remodeling and moving content while I was there, but the library was still an amazing place. A beautiful building.

A must-do free activity for toddlers! There is an amazing little play space for toddlers and young kids in the children's section. The song and story times are wonderful as well. There's even a small outdoor space just for the kiddos and parents. After exploring for awhile, we like to go for a ride up the elevator and look out the windows from the top floor. This library is a great place to pass some time with a little one, especially when it's too hot to go to the park. Like all Phoenix libraries, there is also the amazing perk of Culture Passes and the seed library! A fantastic free resource to the community. Now that I'm a mom and also on a tight budget, I've become a library stan!!!

The Burton Barr Central Library has a nice reading room on the top floor coupled with nice architecture. There is a nice lake on the ground floor upon walking in and cool air conditioning because Phoenix can get mighty hot. While I appreciate the library being spacious with nice architecture I wish the stacks aka books were better for I didn't find too many books to my liking during my three hour visit here. The staff here is very friendly. I would say if you live in Phoenix and this is your main branch you can get books shifted from other branches here to pick up. Support your local library!

Coolest industrial style architectural building. Gorgeous facility. Books, videos, computers, historical library section. culture pass. Great views from high up floors. Our library system has it all. It is a pretty marvelous/impressive facility. Bonus, right on the light rail path.

Very massive building just filled with books. The bottom floors are kind of loud, but once you get higher it's gets pretty quiet. Lots and lots of places to study and read in quite. Keep note the the parking spaces for the library are pretty small so I'd recommend parking close to the park if you consider your vehicle large (or if you can't park).

What a cool building! Especially for Phoenix. Lovely selection of desks on the 5th floor to study and work.

This library is huge! Plenty of good resourceful books to check out. Organization has a clean touch, great details of design, awesome atmosphere too!

l used to live walking distance from the Burton Barr library. It was impressive and a wonderful resource. My experience today has made me think again. The place has never recovered from COVID. Plexiglass barriers still separate the staff from the patrons. The little used book shop lies fallow. Living magazine is only available on line (Serioisly? Martha Stewart, love her or hate her is still mainstream and full of useful information for those of us who entertain). Library closes at 5:00 pm ????? Used to be 9:00pm. These are not the features of a world class library in the 5th largest city in the nation. But my final comment is for the women's bathroom on 5th floor. DISGUSTING. One stall overn with poop. one stall completely out of order. No soap. Used bandais on sinks. Used diaper? Depends? left on one stall. Wow.

This is a wonderful library and a strong flagship location for the Phoenix Public Library system. Just driving up, you are greeted with nice architecture and a large parking lot. The inside has even more interesting architecture - glass elevators!, a little lake inside! - and the staff are always kind and helpful. There is a great selection of everything you can think of here, from new releases to old favorites on DVD. You can even grab CDs for music, if you're still rocking the boom box. The holds process usually goes pretty quickly, and they transfer from other libraries in the system (the all do), so you can get your hands on items quicker. They're also connected to the e-book system, and with the app Libby you can get access to a ton of e-books and audiobooks without ever leaving your home. They have a really easy check out process that is fully automated. You just put the books down, scan your card, and the magic machine knows all of the books you are trying to check out. Their book return outside is also automated and fun for kids (and kids at heart like myself), much better than just a metal door to drop things in. There are lots of other places and things in this library that I haven't even explored. I am really glad it is now my closest/easiest to reach library because it's always nice to visit.

Driving up to the building is impressive and entering it is bookworm's wonderland. I like the fountain that's inside which gives it a nice outdoor and calm relaxing feeling. A great place to get away from it all when you just want to read in an air conditioned building and staying out of the heatwave.

This is based strictly off of my experience of coming here to read and study. First off, I loved the fact that there was a private parking lot and I didn't have to find parking on the street. Coming from out of town, that made coming here a lot easier. Secondly, I really liked the fifth floor for studying/reading. There were a ton of single tables throughout the floor, with some alongside the windows. Each had its own light, but I'd recommend sitting near the windows so you can just use the natural light and enjoy the view. It was pretty quiet the times I was there. There was one incident where a homeless man sleeping did get escorted out; but security was polite and there wasn't much of a ruckus. Overall, I thought it was a nice, clean, quiet place to study. The art gallery on the first floor was a cool bonus.

This downtown library is so cool! Plenty of books, movies and resources. Featuring the large reading room on the top floor, the design and overall size of this library is great. Each floor has its own purpose, and there's a lot of support for college students or free internet services. The views of the city are a great free bonus, too.

This is one of the best facilities I have seen. I can't wait to keep exploring more of the plethora of information these 5 floor building has to provide! People working here are super nice and kind!

Beautiful and giant library! I was here for a little weekend solo getaway from AZ and am so glad I stoped in to look around.

Nice facilities. Good place to study or read books. Also many useful events on small business and public assistance. Also educational programs for children and adults. Only wish the hours were longer.

Very nice library. Lots of things going on. The staff is very friendly and helpful.

This is a very nice and huge library, rival of the one near Petco Park in San Diego. The ground around the building is nice and clean with a few sculptures and border by a city park. As you enter the building, you are greeted by the security desk and information desk. We came in search of a certain geocaching log book, a quick look around told us that we need to head to the 5th floor. Every floor is packed with rows and rows of shelves well labeled. There are many desks, computer stations for people to use, spacious and well lit. I went to the service desk and was quickly pointed to where I needed to go along with a map. This is a true bookworm heaven, good place to study and hang out for many folks and I mean that in a loose way to explain the security desk and staff walking around. I was only here for 15 minutes but love it, it's aesthetically pleasing, water fountain, skylight, nice view, vast resources, people are nice and helpful. What more can one ask for in downtown Phoenix.

I love bringing the kids here! Their children's section is incredible! So many things to explore. It's all very tactile and engaging. They have a small but spacious patio perfect for the kids to run around and let out some energy. They have crayons and color sheets. You can brings snacks to eat in their kid cafe or outside on the patio. Tons and tons and tons of books- a very diverse selection. The whole place is very open and clean. The museum has these great big windows and glass elevators and hosts great artwork. And it's all free! We always plan to stay for at least a couple hours when we come.

I love burton barr library! They always have good books and if they don't I can just put them on hold.

Kind of a mixed bag. The style and design is beautiful, the architecture serves as a really cool example of contemporary architecture. Everybody I interacted with was also extremely nice and helpful, and there were a lot of cool exhibits. Now, as far as the book selection and placement goes, it leaves a lot to be desired. I was looking for a very specific book that should have been easy to find, but had to go on a wild goose chase of sorts to find it. It also seemed like they have a million copies of some books, but a very limited selection of others. All in all, it is a very effective modern library, I just wish they had the book part down a little better.

This might be one of the best public libraries I have been so far. I love libraries and was totally psyched when I found out how huge this was. It has 6 floors with plenty of good collection of books. The top floors have lots of private space and desks for you to read, write or work. It is also less crowded than the lower floors. Every floor has a theme, I believe one floor had some sections dedicated to kids or teen stuff; another one had some art stuff. They also had some lecture rooms, sort of like an auditorium to hold workshops. Great stuff! It has a huge parking lot and very close to the metro rail station.

Lots of kids go in after school (which is expected- but the security reminds them to keep it down). Only big downfall is that they don't have as many books as I would like or the waiting list for books are like 40+ people in front of you. Just order more?

Holy moly this place is amazing!!! What a fantastic job rebuilding. THIS is the kind of thing I want my tax monies going to. This is the kind of thing that actually makes society a better place. The kids' section alone is worth the trip out here. I'd like to address many reviewers' comments about homeless people being here. Yes, they are. And you know what? GOOD! I'm glad there is a place they can go to to escape the heat, relax, and edify their minds. They are as worthy of respite and calm as any of us. Frankly, I find their presence here even more of a reason to come. I want to support an institution that supports all human beings. Great job city of Phoenix.

Libraries are my favorite secret hangout spots. I've always been drawn to a library; it might be because the books on the shelves can transport you to another place and time, like a free vacation! The Central Phoenix Library does not disappoint. It takes my wonderland experience of wandering between bookshelves to the next level. Stellar book and media selection. The place is organized, easy to navigate, easy check out, and a great reference for resources for the community. The fifth floor boasts views of the sprawling cityscape of Phoenix. Be prepared to see some of downtown's vagrants reading quietly and also taking a break from the heat. This can make for some interesting body odors. And every time (seriously EVERY TIME!) I go, as I approach the entrance, there is always a person that asks me if I'm registered to vote, have I heard about Prop 'xyz' or did you hear about "____" running for office? The answer is no!I like to come to the library to be an introvert and not talk to anyone. I know that sounds austere, but I feel that the library is a sacred ground of solitude, AND peace and quiet. Once you get past the fire breathing dragons and the trolls under the bridge, it is all worth it.

Another great city library. This is by far the oldest of the string of modern libraries, namely Salt Lake City library by Moshe Safdie and Seattle library by Rem Koolhaus. Great views and spaces, definitely worth a visit if you are into architecture. The roof is supported by a tensegrity structure, meaning the columns do not touch the roof but is supported via a series of tension rods.

What an awesome library! It's so big and has so much to offer. I have gone twice with my daughter for story time. The kids section is huge and has a lot to offer. Story time was great and they continue to take Covid precautions, with spaced out markers to distance. The library is very clean and organized

It is very big library. I love the rooms they have available to reserve. I wish there were more but overall this is my go to place to study.

Everyone is always friendly and helpful! They do a lot to keep our collective shared space clean and safe. Thank you for requiring mask!! :))

Burton Barr Library is a gosh-darn jewel in downtown Phoenix. If you live in the wider Phoenix area and have not visited, your life is not complete. Say what? Yeah - that's right. It'll blow your MiNd! I mean, how many libraries do YOU know with a crashed Borg cube at the entrance? None. How many have an modern art display outside that is actually the piling case for the buildings foundation?! None. How many have five floors of awesomeness with a beautiful view of Phoenix at the top, more books than you can shake a stick at, and masses of study space?! Yeah. None. If you can't find a book to interest you here, you have to be immortal and have read everything ever or something. Just walking into Burton Barr fills me with anticipation of what I might discover. And that's no joke. I've managed to rekindle my affair with reading and subject matters I'd shelved long ago. I feel at peace browsing. Looking at whatever is installed in the temporary gallery. Zoning out watching the ground floor waterfall reviewing my literary loot. Or swooshing up in the open elevator peeking at what's going on in the other floors. It's a marvel. Love the index system and computer systems, love the helpful librarians. Huge audio section. Old print section. Massive kids/teens section (on its own floor) - the place even has its own ebook app I'm downloading right now. It even has a helpful insta page. It's overwhelming in such a super great way. Go visit. Now. It'll change you for the better.

I like books period and this library usually has just what I'm looking for haha so hence the 3 stars. The location is nice and centralized and easy access to public transportation. The parking area is nice and spacious with plenty of covered parking. The cons: For a library it's awfully loud. There are people eating, running, cursing and sleeping all over the place. This is a popular spot for the hopeless to hang out. You would think they'd be reading books to fix their situation, (The pursuit of Happiness, they most likely have the book and dvd here in stock fyi) instead they panhandle and quite honestly "funk" up the place. The smell is so atrocious at times, that I've been known to cut my visit short due to feeling nauseous. The summer months are a bit more brutal. There is a stench that I can only relate to solar powered caramelized onions. Idk it's hard to pinpoint. All in all, the library has great programs, from kid activities to entrepreneur think tanks. The staff is kind and it's nice and cool. My advice, don't expect the same library you grew up with, this place is more like a shelter/zoo depending on which floor you're on. Take it from me, find what your looking for and check out.

I love my normal little libraries. I can do a quick browse and pick up any orders I've made. But here, it's an excursion. And the browsing my son and I end up doing at this location ends with many more books than the smaller locations. It's amazing the variety of books, DVDs, and CDs they already have on hand here, thanks to the space. It's fantastic! My son loves riding the glass elevators and the art gallery. Lots of beautiful architecture throughout the building, really. The view of the city is great too. The kids area is huge with a play area and a space for tables. These tables are for the items you can borrow from the librarians: building sets, games, puzzles, dress up items, markers and crayons, etc. It's grand! One thing I had noticed was that they didn't have any little learning computers for the tiny kids. They have 'kids' computers you can sign up for, just as you can with any of the regular computers on the other floors, however they don't have any that simply come pre-loaded with easy touch-and-see sorts of games. All the other libraries we've been to have this, away from the space of the regular kids computers, so I was a bit surprised. Librarians here are amazing. So friendly and helpful and they have a great sense of humor. We "checked out" some packets of seeds from the Seed Library and the librarian behind the counter was teasing, asking if we would bring back some veggies for her. She was very sweet. If these cucumbers and peppers grow, we'll be back with one, just for her!

Love, love, love for this library. From it's displayed art pieces, 5 levels, amazing view of Phoenix and high speed wifi- there's nothing more that I can ask for in a public library. I favor the 5th level mostly because of the abundance of desks, outlets, wifi connection, amazing view of Phoenix and great lighting. Since it is public, there will be kids running around at times, the homeless or people who aren't conscious of their speaking volume but most times it is great for studying and reading. I have yet to check anything out or need much help from the staff working here. However, when I asked help at the Help Desk the man was very helpful and patient in explaining where everything in the library was. He also answered many questions I had, which I was very appreciative of. I've been going here frequently and really enjoy it. They do allow drinks if it sealable, but no eating- which is understandable.

People giving 1 star reviews must be expressing their narrow minded opinions on this place based on the homeless people encountered rather than fairly reviewing the library as a whole. First off, a public library is for the public, not for the pretentious that don't know how to accept that it's 2016 & that there is homelessness everywhere & simply the fact that homeless people are welcome to PUBLIC SPACES such as PUBLIC libraries just as much as everyone else is. If they're not bothering you or others around & minding their own business, mind your own too. I simply don't understand why people have so many complaints. If you take a moment to walk around this building, on all floors, you will see how much this library truly offers & serves to the Phoenix community. I suppose only someone, like myself, who is from a community that does not have these free resources in a public space, would actually appreciate it. By far one of the most beautiful libraries, if not the most beautiful library, I have ever seen or been to. I went straight to the 5th floor to get some studying done. It's a really great place to study. They have computers open for the public to use and have desks with individual outlets right under them for laptop/tablet users. I walked around on the floors open to customers & was amazed at the resources they offer at this library. From a room with very old documents that can be viewed in a beautifully isolated & secure glass room by appointment, to a sectioned off historical Arizonian book section, to a gallery of artwork from famous books & authors they showcase for the month, a college/career center with advisors, a business center that also has advisors for those who want to start businesses. This library offers & benefits the community so much. I even saw flyers on the way out that they hold free yoga classes at the library! What?! Amazing!!!! This place has it all. A public library that has books, magazines, CDs, DVDs, private study rooms, computers, hundreds of desks for study space, free/useful resources to help the people of the community succeed!!!!!!!!! I wish Los Angeles had a library or public center that can serve the children, teens, students, and the rest of the community. I truly hope the community realizes and appreciates what the city is giving back to them through this building and the services/resources offered.

Love/hate. Non-fiction on computer science is very poor. Just how-to books on products. But if you need a manual for a 15 year old application...you've come to the right place. Not just one copies, but several on the same long outdated product. But I couldn't find any books on database theory or anything having to do with computer science. If you want to read or work on a computer while here you might want to skip the 2nd floor. At least from 9am-3pm that it strictly a living room for the homeless. A group of them this morning sat down and stood less than 3 feet from me, despite other open areas, and preceded to have a long loud (normal outside voices) conversion about where they all were sleeping, the price of weed, all they're problems in being able to afford weed, how much they love weed, how they wish they could smoke weed all day every day. If I'd had a bag of weed I would have given it to them just to let me get back to my research. On the other hand I learned a lot about homelessness and weed. I do come to the library to learn, so check that box. And lot's and lot's of people making phone calls. Important calls like "why dat mother%$#...", ya know, saying nothing about nothing very loudly. I don't blame the library staff for not keeping things quiet, it would be absolutely hopeless. The trap is there are some work stations that seem like single user stations...like they would afford a tiny bit of privacy and a lower roar sound level...but these are the worse for noise level. The best spots imo are the center areas 5th that have a huge bank of desks. The noise makers seem to avoid these I assume because they seem less private. There still are loud conversations going on but it looks like most people use the area for sleeping. Just try to avoid loud snorers. And don't get upset, just move to another spot when a group decides to have a party right next to you. I don't get the impression they're doing it intentionally, just completely unaware of any social manners. Sound cancelling headsets would be a nice bit of equipment the library could offer for check out because they're needed. The next best option I've found is to run some long YouTube on some lecture and put on the headphones. That becomes a kind of white noise and I'm able to read and work. But I need to get some headsets that will boost the volume because even on max it it's enough. And if you really need some quiet there are some bars near by.

This is such a cool library!! It's huge! Lots of space, great collection of fiction books, non fiction, bios, movies, CDs ... everything!! However ... It seems like that is the hang out spot for the homeless in the valley. Seriously! With that being said where the computers are it smells awful!!! Urine, alcohol, old food ... just awful! Be aware and bring hand sanitizer.

This library is glorious! I spent most of my time through 18 to 24 exploring here or working on my resume or surfing through MySpace or discovering new books and old classics, but especially sharing these experiences with friends. The employees have always been helpful. The bathrooms are designed so futuristically and the view from the top floor is so amazing. I love this library so much.

This rating is mostly for the massive collection of graphic novels nestled in this library. It's almost overwhelming, the amount of manga series you can find here. Manga nuts will be satisfied with the vast collection of series, past and present. The ambiance is lacking in comfort, which would have left this at a 3 star rating. Despite the library being a hefty size, it's not really a comfy and cozy place to lounge around. This isn't a stab at the homeless patrons, either. There are plenty of windows to sit next to, but the library seems as comfortable as a rock. Pros: Huge manga collection, several levels to explore Cons: Not really that comfortable.

An amazing library and a great place to find any book or movie or anything to borrow from the library here.

Call me a booksnake! For my first review as a new Arizona resident, The Burton Barr Central Library came first to my mind. I made it a priority to check out the Phoenix Public Library system since I knew I would be spending lots of time here. I've been to many public libraries around the nation and I must admit the City of Phoenix has a very comprehensive and sophisticated system. When you enter the Burton Barr Central Library, you'll notice the modern glass feel, the water feature in the lobby and the five floors of references and information. Each floor has a dedicated section but my fiancé Daniel L. and I always gravitate to the fifth floor because they have panoramic views of the city and it's typically quiet compared to the other busier floors. The window panels move with the sunlight and doesn't impede on your reading. They have rows of desk (each include power strips) as well as individual desks. Do take advantage of the DVD rentals (3 weeks for free!) and the self checkout which will get you in and out of there. The bathrooms also have this contemporary steel feel to it. In general, the library is clean and allows covered drinks. The Wi-Fi is consistent and fast which scores huge points with us! Hours of operation: Monday 9AM-5PM Tuesday 9AM-9PM Wednesday 9AM-9PM Thursday 9AM-9PM Friday 9AM-5PM Saturday 9AM-PM Sunday 1PM-5PM There is free parking and the Valley Metro conveniently stops in front. Thank you Phoenix for your services!

So much more than just a library. The Burton Barr Public Library is just North of Downtown Phoenix near the art museum and offets free public parking. This library is so much more than just a library. The top floor has a large reading room with amazing views of downtown and interesting ocular windows above the columns. They even had a technology room where you could access 3-D printers. I was saddened to hear about the damage caused by the storm hopefully all the damage will be repaired and the library before operational again.

Probably the most beautiful library we have in the valley. This place is huge with spaces for any type of library activities you are looking for, from browsing, to studying, to killing time in a comfortable environment. The staff are amazingly helpful and welcoming. They are all very knowledgeable. Anything that is borrowed from this library can be returned at any Phoenix Public Library, and vice versa. The collection here is pretty vast, and the space is both beautiful and welcoming.

I've found myself at this library several times sp far this year. Each time that I have been to this library, it has been for a meeting of some sort. The library may not be the first place that organizers think to host a meeting, but this happens to be one of the more perfect spots. This library can be the perfect place for a meeting that might pull in people from all over the valley. This library is in a very central location, it is on the East side of Central Ave and is just above the I10 and South of McDowell. I have been to meetings in the Pulliam Room. This room is fairly large with a wonderful sound system and technical amenities. My only problem with this room is that the required rental is 4 hours, but the seats are HARD wooden seats. Not so nice on the bottom if you're sitting for 4 hours. I have also attended meetings in Meeting Room A and Room B. Small rooms with no audio visual equipment, minimal amenities, and awkwardly situated in the same hallway as the restrooms, so there is a lot of traffic and noise right outside the door when your meeting is in progress. All in all, this is a nice library.

I had almost forgotten this awesome Library existed!!! :) This library is like a walk down memory lane!! LOVE IT!! I used to come here a lot when I first got my library card. That was back when I was just 8 years old, oh the good times!!! :) This library is so expansive and in great condition, yes its the building that stands right on top of the 101 tunnel. Oh and yes, you will occasionally bump into a homeless person or more who may be there to enjoy the nice A/C on these hot summer days, but no worries!! Their all mostly friendly and quiet. Plus, you wouldn't want to miss out on the massive selection this fine library has to offer!! Enjoy!! :)

Free movie nights? Rotating museum exhibits? Architecture that resembles a space-age future world? Free library cards with three weeks per book and a 35 (!!) book check-out limit? Comfortable work stations? Gorgeous views of the Phoenix skyline? A physical size larger and more open and spacious than any university library I've ever visited? Rare book and child play areas? Phoenix sure has done right with its library.

When the government alert system is activated in Phoenix because of an approaching haboob, why should you jump into your car and race down to this library? For the view! Trust me; it wasn't my idea. I thought we should stay home and batten down the hatches. But, no, I was in for a treat: the Phoenix Public Library, tour courtesy of Mark H. With the closing hour approaching, along with the haboob, we were allowed in the building, along with other assorted patrons. This is a library? To the citizens of Phoenix, thank you! Check out the waterfalls, inside. Yes, there are shelves of books, but so much more. My tour guide took me to the top floor by elevator, where we found south facing windows and settled into some comfy chairs. I had visions of being locked in after closing hours, so I talked my tour guide into leaving before we were stranded here for hours, which wouldn't have been a bad thing at all. Maybe next time.

Oh, how I love a library! I don't Nook, Kindle, have online subscriptions to my daily newspapers, or favorite magazines: I read books, preferably hardcover - better to sniff - and cherish the experience, and printed versions of all my media. This library aka Burton Barr, is architecturally stunning, the interior includes a fountain, glass elevators, and sweeping views from floor-to-ceiling windows. I serve on the BOD for a grassroots non-profit org, and we meet here monthly to plan our upcoming projects. I've also signed up to take some courses at The Hive on the first floor: they offer a myriad of classes, business mentorships, and a welcoming environment for creativity. To those bemoaning the presence of less fortunate and homeless folks: it is a PUBLIC place, people, this means everyone is welcome, even the marginalized, and those some would rather ignore. Most are there to use computers, get out of the heat/cold, and do not bother anyone. Sometimes humans are very cruel :( There's an art installation which rotates monthly; free WIFI; many classes and programs for children and adults; computer access; and I haven't even explored all of the floors yet. They close at 9PM sharp, and starting about thirty minutes prior, VERY loud announcements are made to remind patrons to pack up: the first time I heard it, I nearly fell off my chair, it was jarring! I'm so pleased that Phoenix has a great library system, and glad to visit Burton Barr on the regular. * plenty of parking * ** conveniently located in DT PHX ** *** sweeping views from floor-to-ceiling windows *** **** A Hive; art installations; classes, special events, and programs for all ages **** ***** truly stunning architecture *****

How can you not like the library? Especially when its as cool as this one? Ive been here twice now, and absolutely love seeing the arcitectural masterpeice that it is. Made out of steel and glass, its a jewel of a place. Glass elevators, reflection pools, and art throughout the place thats lovely to look at. If all the libaries were like this, people would come more often. They have 5 floors, and each one has its own special purpose. Will return in the future.