Salt Lake City Public Library

Gorgeous space. This should be #1 on every tourist's list. On a high floor we found prominently displayed the book Global Citizen, The Architecture of Moshe Safdie, who designed this. It says "Nancy Tessman (library director) wanted (this) to bea a social condenser...that would regularly bring together the city's diverse and overlapping communities," to create a public realm in a city that really had none." Kudos to her! It is indeed a welcoming place for everyone. Yes, one sees some homeless people, but they are mostly in sort of cubicles along the northeast wall, and I didn't remember them. Go and enjoy. Thank you Nancy, Moshe, and SLC for this beautiful experience.

Amazing library! Great staff. Lots of options beyond just books. Park on the roof is amazing with great views. The architecture is fantastic. We played chess on the large board and spent hours exploring the building. What a great resource for the community!

Great library with tons of cool opportunities to get stuff done, learn something or just enjoy a little well spent "wasted" time. The usual books, newspapers, magazines, and DVD's with free wifi and a coffee shop. Also a giant chess set to play, a full level for kids, meeting rooms, computers, printers/scanners, community resources, a 3d printing workshop, community garden, digital library/e-books and plenty more. It's the main downtown library so there's usually some homeless people hanging around but for the most part they very chill and not at all a disruption or an issue, they're just people enjoying the public library. I've spent quite a few days at this library working on various projects or just spending a few quiet hours alone watching YouTube and it's not entirely uncommon for there to be a drug overdose requiring emergency medical response. However the staff is EXCELLENT and takes care of such issues quickly, respectfully and with the person's health as top priority. Don't let that be a reason to avoid the library, it's all part of downtown life and I've never felt unsafe or unwelcome here.

The library is beautiful, with shops in the five-story high atrium, and a rooftop, surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains. It's their re-opening day. The celebratory party is held on the rooftop, with light food served. Unfortunately, it's a cloudy day. But many people, especially families with children, showed up, which contradicts the empty streets that I often see. The library dates back to 1898. After a few moves, they have settled at the current location since 2003. The city issued an $84 million library bond, with Moshe Safdie (1938-, Haifa) and Associates as the architect. Almost from every corner of the library, I see the snowy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. Each floor is pretty empty, which is the norm.

After all these years I can't believe I haven't reviewed the library! The architecture is stunning, it is truly a monument to human achievement. Being here, in this building makes me proud to be a Salt Laker. Even the elevators are beautiful. So much art to see! My favorite piece of art here? Probs that big head hanging from string in the atrium. Even if you don't read, it's a great place to be. Fast wifi, librarians are nice. Did you know that with your library card you can get Rosetta stone, for free! Also they have a movie app. Pretty dope.

Beautiful building and friendly staff. When we went it was the middle of major blizzard, and there were lots of homeless people on the main floor. The small reading areas were full of garbage. The library has an amazing children's area with accessible shelves for little ones and lovely play areas.

I really enjoyed my last Visit to the Main Library. I noticed staff and security was doing a great job. But I also noticed that the homeless people their were not showering. Maybe security could assist them in taking a shower.

This is a place where you will find the most cosy environment to read. Also there is a huge collection of books, cd, dvds, audio books, artworks and etc. The place which i like is the rooftop. The view of valley from that rooftop is insane.

Salt Lake City library downtown is highly recommended by a few. They have remolded according to the reviews. It was absolutely a readers dream to visit this library. Free parking is located on the lower level, you can validate your ticket inside the library. Very clean bathrooms, customer service was awesome. This is probably one the best library that Ive visited. I normally visit a library when I'm in larger cities, its alot of fun. The library has different floors, beautiful art work, live working bee area, stores, food and a sunny rooftop! I visited during the summer months, so the views- mountains were unbelievable. I highly recommend a visit to all!

The Salt Lake City Public Library is one of those buildings that makes you stop and look up the moment you walk inside. The modern design with all the glass and sky high ceilings is genuinely spectacular and makes the space feel open and energizing instead of quiet and stuffy. When I visited on a Saturday morning it was busy, which was actually really nice to see, with people reading, studying, and casually surfing the internet. It felt alive in the best way. I also enjoyed wandering through the different floors where there were interesting exhibits and old books on display that made browsing feel more like exploring. Add in the great views of the valley from the windows and it's easy to imagine spending a lot of time here if I lived nearby.

Thrilled to get on the rooftop of the library today. It's a gorgeous sunny day and we can see the capital, the snow, cap mountains, and downtown. There is a beehive up here that's pretty cool. A lot is happening at the library today with sale in the basement and a festival on the grounds. There is a lot of construction in the area.

If you appreciate great architecture, you need to check this building out. The building itself is a marvel, both inside and out. This is, by far, the most modern and beautiful public library I have ever seen. As soon as you walk in, you notice that you are inside a gorgeous, enormous atrium. There are windows allowing in natural light everywhere. Even the elevators were well thought out. The elevators are glass and look out into the entrance/atrium area as you zoom up and down. You can (and should) take an elevator, or the stairs, to the roof. On the roof, you can stroll around and enjoy spectacular views of the city in all directions. There is even an area where you can sit and relax, again all on the rooftop. You will notice, of course, the two active beehives located on the top level. There are enclosed--kind of--in a room, although the ceiling is only covered with a tarp so the bees can and will fly in and out now and then. From the floor downstairs, you can literally get up close and personal with these beehives, from behind the safety of glass windows, and honestly, I could probably watch this spectacle for hours. By the way, how many public libraries in the world have beehives in them? Sure, like nearly all public libraries, there are a few homeless folks inside, some eating, some sleeping, whatever. They didn't bother me and I didn't bother them. I know the library has books, because I saw them myself, so I am going to make a wild guess that the library is more than just an architectural gem. Regardless of whether you actually want to use the library's services, if you are at all interested in architecture, or active beehives, or spectacular views, or all of the above, come see this place.

The library is beautiful, with shops in the five-story high atrium, and a rooftop, surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains. It's their re-opening day. The celebratory party is held on the rooftop, with light food served. Unfortunately, it's a cloudy day. But many people, especially families with children, showed up, which contradicts the empty streets that I often see. The library dates back to 1898. After a few moves, they have settled at the current location since 2003. The city issued an $84 million library bond, with Moshe Safdie (1938-, Haifa) and Associates as the architect. Almost from every corner of the library, I see the snowy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. Each floor is pretty empty, which is the norm.

Such a cool spot to visit in Salt Lake City! The architecture is so nice! There were lots of little sitting/reading areas on all the floors throughout the library which is perfect for people stopping by for books or working remote. There is a garage downstairs but it's very expensive. It was free for 15 mins only. There were also a lot of homeless people around the building. There is a rooftop area at the top of the building that you can visit through their office. There is a great view of the city from up there.

This is the most amazing library I have ever been to in my entire life! I would be here all the time if I lived nearby! It is absolutely gorgeous and there are floors and floors of books with plenty of places to sit and read. I've never seen a library with stores inside of it before, but there were a few small shops on the ground floor. I didn't go inside of them, but it was very interesting seeing them there. I didn't realize there was a rooftop garden when I came here, but it seems like it was under construction when I visited anyways. From the sounds of it, it has amazing views of the city. Once they reopen it, they should definitely be sure to advertise it more!

Large main branch. Has the usual services, seed collections, computers, printing, teen area, adult area, etc. Their Children's area is the highlight! Gorgeous section, lovely little play area sections in nooks including an attic, market, and more! Right now floors 4 & 5 are closed and under rennovation, will reopen in Spring with a beutiful rooftop open to the public. I was looking forward to a 5th floor mountain view, will be gorgeous once completed.

I'm so happy there's a nice, and big library near me. I'm impressed how architecturally beautiful it is with the pretty landscape surrounding it. It's perfect for a day to sit outside to read/people watch/journal. I've never had issues finding parking at the structure. The first 2 hours are free once you retrieve your ticket at parking entrance (machine). Will need to scan it once near the front desk inside the library when you're ready to leave. I've only been there to use the computers and printers; and they're always available. The staffs are helpful, informative, and friendly. There are several floors with bright open space; ample seating/tables; and large windows. There's a coffee shop inside along with other small shops on the first floor. Usually, I spend a few mins browsing at the small shops (ie art gallery) before stepping inside the actual main floor of library. It's quiet, clean, and well-maintained. Easy to setup new account at the library. I believe each month you're allocated a $$ amount to print using your library card (I don't recall, but librarian can assist).

This is probably the nicest homeless shelter I've ever been to. Lots of books here too.

The SLC main library is so much more than a library. It's a destination. There are several floors and even a rooftop area. Times have changed over the years with libraries. One of the changes that my wife really enjoys is the opportunity to get a library card for a library in a different state than where we live. Whenever we travel to a destination on vacation, she loves to visit the local library to get books. She also really loves to get e-books. Most libraries that offer this service charge a fee which we feel is more than worth it for the amount of reading my wife enjoys doing. It doesn't seem like it was that long ago that we were at the airport on our way to a nice vacation and my wife needed to unload her suitcase of books only because it was over the 50 pound weight limit. Oh the memories. We parked in the public parking garage below the library. I initially thought this was a bit odd that we would need to pay to park to visit the library. This was, however, an amazing looking library. After visiting for a while, before we left we were given a voucher for two hours of paid parking. Very nice touch! While our main intent was books here, I know this library offers many other services. Really quite the place and a beautiful building.

Unbelievable! This is a library and SO much more. The architecture, the art, the sense of welcome, comfort and community are all above and beyond any library Ive ever experienced. Its a destination for locals and tourists alike. Bravo Salt Lake City!

Cool place to check out when you're in Salt Lake City! The library is gorgeous and clean! Lots to explore and check out on every floor! There's parking nearby on the street! I would go here to check out books all the time if I lived here!

Easily the most STUNNING library I have seen in the United States, featuring so many amenities (including passport services). This library has everything and is enormously spacious with room enough for everyone. Conference space, lecture halls, private rooms, computers, and the largest collection of DVDs I have ever seen in a library. There is, however, one thing to bear in mind here and it is the case in many city libraries. There is a large homeless population, but, to be fair, most of the homeless just want somewhere to sit peacefully and quietly (and who among us doesn't want the same?). This is a beautiful space and I truly envy the people who live in the area and have library cards.

I went here with my wife and one of her coworkers to study. This library is beautiful and definitely a must visit if you come to Salt Lake. The views are magnificent. There is lots of seating and plenty of study rooms. There are also plenty of outlets to plug in electronic devices. There are also plenty of places to sleep if you're homeless lol. They keep the place pretty clean and they wipe off all the stations at the end of the day it's nice to know that it is good and sanitary.

This is a free public library that offers so much more than books. The architecture inside and out is gorgeous! The interior has a few shops, cafes, and even a plant seller. There are five floors (one is administrative) with each offering something different to visitors. Parking is available under the building or free on the street for a couple of hours.

This place is really unique. There's about four floors to access. This was our last day and our flight wasnt until 730pm so we tried to stop by all the free locations we can downtown. It was pretty warm that day in the 90s so this city building definitely had AC. Parking: from what I saw I saw paid street parking outside. We didn't have car so we just got dropped off. Ambiance: lots of natural light coming in from the roof. There was a museum section we caught at the top of he fourth floor. It was art from digital textures online. I thought it was pretty cool.

Do not come here if you are afraid of heights!!!!!!! This is a nice library but man everywhere you turn is just awful if you're scared of heights. It was also a bit toasty inside and lots of loud people. Maybe the days are over where libraries are quiet spaces though!

What a beautiful public library!! It has the feel of a museum and everyone working there was so friendly and pleasant. The rooftop garden was closed the day we went, which is suppose to have beautiful city views. The gift shop on the ground level has some treasures if you take the time to look around.

The Library was as advertised. Interesting and motivating architecture. Sadly the top floor is closed for renovations. The homeless situation in SLC is staggering. We avoided Washington Square across the street because so many homeless people were gathered and it felt like we were intruding. In the Library my husband went to the restroom but wasn't able to use it. Clearly 2 homeless men are living in it. Sad.

I love this library! I fell in love with the architecture when I first moved here 11 years ago! I love that not only is it a library, but a place for the community to come together and gather, a host for local artists of all ages in addition to the cafes, salons, and gift shops it homes. I enjoy their annual used book sale too and totally take advantage, being a book lover. The network of libraries is super easy to use with their app. They don't always have what I want, and sometimes it takes awhile to get holds, but I'm grateful for the resources available to the community. The Marmalade branch (which I now live closest to) has a seed library, free books up for grabs, and even hosts a Giving Tree for the holidays. Thanks also for the great book recommendations, SLCPL!

I'm always coming here at 2pm to 3pm but a lot of events happen at 4 and never get to do them but that a side it's the most modern library I seen like what library has 6 floors and a garden on the roof and if your a teen or tween this a teen lounge with bored games, card games and video games with a PS4 and Switch it's a great after school place and if you live in the country you will get a free card or going to hang out in Salt lake city down town go check it out

Went to this library after almost 16 months to pick up a free Eid ul-Fitr take-home kit. First I parked my car on the road (200 S 400 E) and walked to the main (West) entrance...but that one is closed and asked everyone to use the East entrance. So I drove and parked my car in the underground parking lot and went through the West entrance. There were hand sanitizers and masks available for public at the entrance & 3 staff sitting there to help or guide us. The library was very empty and clean. Getting out of the parking lot was also very easy, all you have to do is scan your ticket, (pay if needed) & you are out. The first 30 mins are free.

Salt Lake City library is on top 10 lists all over the United States bragging about the best Aestheticslly pleasing libraries there are. This one makes that list / s time and time again. If you're a local, you have a gorgeous glass intrinsic piece of architecture that is beautifully designed. Different levels all displaying different genres and styles of writing. You're able to check out over 5 books at a time, wow! I think they told me 13 when I asked the limit. You'll enjoy it with kids or as a solo expedition.

I had bookmarked a bunch of outdoorsy areas and parks when we planned our brief pit stop in SLC, but when I checked the weather in July the week before we arrived, I realized that with temperatures in the 100's, there was no way we'd last a day outdoors in the heat. It was for this reason that we ended up at the public library with the kids while on vacation, and it was pretty cool. This library has a rather impressive children's area, including small tables for reading and activities, themed reading areas, a puppet show area, and of course, a great selection of books. We were even greeted with small brown bags of snacks for our library visit. The kids had a great time findings great books and enjoying the cool reading nooks. If I lived in SLC, we would be here all the time.

I remember when this library first opened-it was a marvel to behold, and it still is. The architecture alone is reason enough to visit, but the services that are provided are terrific. Of course, they have books, but you can also check out a wifi hot spot, take classes, participate in community activities or even collaborate with like-minded individuals on numerous topics. This place is so much more than a library! When my son was little, we would visit the children's section of the library regularly. I remember the programs and reading challenges they had. There are also a few really cool reading areas-one looks like an ice cave and the other a treehouse. It made reading all the more fun for the little ones. Today, we don't go down there anymore, as my child grew into a teenager. But occasionally I'll take nieces and nephews and it's just as fun as I remember. (Safety tip: the bathrooms on this level are just for children. The library staff keep a close eye on them and monitor who goes in and out. There is also a controlled entrance/exit, so if someone wanders in that shouldn't be there, staff will notice immediately.) Each level of the library gets increasingly quieter and more focused on studying as you go up. Along the perimeter of the building, there are tables and desks set up for reading, working, whatever. They are all access from the main floor either by elevator or stairs. It's a very neat setup-and the views are incredible. The selection of books is massive-and if they don't have something in stock, they have a network of other locations to pull from. I've always been able to find what I'm looking for and place a hold on things that are not on the shelf already. Staff members are also very helpful in locating things if you're having a hard time. My only complaint about this library is that it's not as clean and well maintained as it once was. There are a lot of homeless folks that hang around here-and they have every right to. But I've seen some outbursts and had uncomfortable interactions with some of them that make me feel uneasy. I'm not sure what the solution is, since this is a public space. But I've seen graffiti in the bathroom and dirty facilities more lately as the number of homeless people also increases.

What a beautiful facility that's free and available to all SLC residents (or visitors!) Beautiful architecture, layout of rooms, decors of each floor/section, the glass elevators.. Every big city needs an amazing place like this that you can go to read/write/work and simply admire the surroundings. I was wowed by this library, both inside and out. Spectacular design and vision by the builders. My favorite was sitting on the top floor overlooking main st and the mountains in the background.. speechless. There is a nice fountain outdoors, some shops inside the building that you can browse.. All the tools that you'd need inside the library (computers, printers, CD/DVD, fireplace, individual reading rooms, meeting rooms, etc etc etc)

Today was really disappointing. Coming into the parking garage I was asked for money before even getting out of my car. They were upset I declined and I felt too uncomfortable to wait for the elevator. Came in to get some books and finish a few projects on my laptop. On every level the working station tables it's packed with those taking a break from the streets. Food sprawled out, trash on the floor. The desks are absolutely filthy. Food and random items, sleeping bags, all sprawled out. I get it, it's a public space but we actually have great shelters, especially here downtown. And not being dramatic here, the elevators smelled absolutely terrible and the general library smelled of pee. Heavily. As you look out on the south side pavilion there's trash all over the stairs. Not sure what solution there is for this, but because of the environment I don't feel safe in the parking garage and I rather get in out or go to another library.

Great library. Of course there are plenty of books to browse. You need a library card to get on their computers. You need proof of residency to get a permanent library card, BUT you can get a temporary library card with a photo ID that's good for a month. There's something going on at this library every month. I've heard and seen cultural music performances right inside the doors when you walk in. WiFi is good. There is a cafe if you want coffee. They have a real security presence there. I've seen security holding and checking suspicious people more than once. Homeless people will go in there for a nap or just to get warm during winter. There is an information desk on each floor to answer any questions you might have. They are friendly and informative.

This is such a great perk for residents of Salt Lake City. The library is spacious, full of great books & resources, and set up extremely well to study or work.

One of the best public libraries that I have been. THe architecture was simply superb. I was in Salt lake city for a weekI didn't want to go back to my hotel room. A decent place to spend an evening or any other time. The outside view of the mountains are amazing. The wifi speed is pretty decent ( enought to watch a movie - but I was doing some programming stuff) There were many homeless people inside using the public computers and they were taking up most of the space. The glass elevator was fun to ride.

Beautiful library with a huge selection of everything! Love this place! Festivals right outside. Easy trax access. Definitely a cool place to find some books! Nice selection of Manga!

ALL time favorite library I have ever been to. Funny fact: I have lived in Salt Lake City for almost a year before I actually realized this large building was a library, and before I had even stepped into it. I was actually reading a previous article about the top ten or five, something like that, biggest libraries and coolest might I add, in America. I was caught off guard when I saw pictures of this amazing library the article addressed was in Salt Lake City, and in downtown at that! I now go here quite often. I'm drinking the cool aid. I have a library card. Life is great. You can even check out books online and if they don't have something you are searching for, you can request it. I have done this a few times and they will find the book for you if it is in other libraries, and they will also notify you when the book is available for you to pick up at this current library. This library is HUGE. The architecture of this place is enough reason to check it out, even if you don't typically choose the library as your place to hang of choice. There is a coffee shop in here, cafe, gift shops, salon [which I think is the coolest, maybe because I am a hair stylist, but whatever]. There is yoga on the roofs sometimes of the week or weekend. They usually are up to date with current happenings in the city which I think is the coolest part about this library. They also have where you can rent dvds, comics, audible books, magazines, literally, everything.

If you have been to the Seattle Public Library's Central Branch, you would think that the SLC Public Library is comparatively less progressive looking. Though compared to the traditional architecture of libraries found in Hawaii, this library is decidedly very modern. The spiral shaped glass structure is one of the architectural highlights of SLC. It is five floors high with a top floor viewing area. Though it happened to be closed when I was there due to the recent inclement weather. There is a open area in the middle of the structure for light to filter in and plenty of seating in the library part. As well as on the opposite side of the spiral away from it. A great spot to spend time reading a selection of the large inventory of books found here or access the public wi-fi available throughout the facility. A library for me can be about the essentials of what books are carried and such. But the beauty of this library is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it helps encourage public usage.

I am extremely, extremely, extremely impressed and delighted by this library. A city this size has no business having a top-shelf public library, so Salt Lakers--be very proud. Sentimental attachments aside, I would prefer to come here than to my home library in Chicago. Where to begin? The architecture: This building was completed in 2006 and yes, it is very "modern." I usually hate "modern" anything. But it's modern without being angular, jumbled, chaotic, bizarre, slick, ostentatious, or vertiginous. The entry atrium is sort of like a shopping mall, with a row of small stores to the left, and the library proper to the right. The south wall is entirely glass, so to utilize the seating on that side gives you a view of the spectacular mountain vistas. Thanks to all the glass used on all sides of the building, the entire facility is flooded with light. Speaking of seating: There is plenty. PLENTY. Way more than most other public libraries. Large study tables, individual carrels, and lots of comfortable easy-chair-style choices. Sometimes I want to come to the library to sit down and READ. Thank you, SLCPL! (CPL, are you paying attention?) On the northwest corner of each floor, there is a seating area with stacked fireplaces. Fireplaces! How cool is that?! Books: Obviously the main point of any library. Their collection seems very, very healthy. I carry a list of "books of interest" for times when I am in a bookstore or library looking for something new. Their catalogue showed me all eight of the non-fiction books on my list, and they were all available too. Plus they had a Georges Simenon novel for which I've been searching for over a year that the entire Chicago Public Library system (plus Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette, and Glenview) do not even carry. The collection gets top marks. What else? -The aisle-ending shelf labels have descriptions as well as call numbers -The complex includes generous outdoor public space -The online catalogue system is facile and comprehensive -The TRAX stop across the street is the last westbound stop inside the Free Zone -The library store sells a few used books, including dozens of 2007 and 2008 Frommer's travel guides for only $8. That's a great bargain! As an earnest bibliophile and a long-time champion of public libraries, I really cannot say enough about how impressed I am with the SLCPL. Utahns, please cherish this gift and put it to good use. Visitors, check it out and make yourselves jealous.

There is a little nerd inside of everybody, don't deny it. And that nerd admires a little bit of architecture and city life. Oh, the nerd inside admires the beauty of this library a great deal. Not only can you be a little book worm and indulge in the five levels of knowledge but you can travel to the top of this building's roof and look from high heights at the city in your ivory tower. Maybe your nerd wants to check out some crafts, listen to BBC talk radio, collect some comic books, or grab a cup of joe? Your tower has it all. Yes, the nerd inside is satisfied at the Salt Lake City Pubic Library. Maybe a little bit too satisfied... Note(s): The Trax station stops right in front of this place. Be green!

Even if you're a person like me who is absolutely not a fan of reading books in general, this library is still an absolutely amazing building to see in person, highly recommend.

This is one of my favorite libraries in the world! It is absolutely beautiful and has so many trendy events/festivals all of the time. There are so many things to explore in the library such as beehives, rooftop views, and play areas. There are also wonderful fireplaces throughout.

Beat library! It was very clean! Beautiful architecture and so many places to sit. I think I could stay there for hours just enjoying the view. Oh and cool elevators!

It's notable how few reviews are focused on reading and books, and how many are focused on the architecture (which is beautiful) and the food, gardens etc. Frankly, it's not a place for readers. It's loud, crowded, and there are many disruptive patrons that make it scary for kids and difficult for bibliophiles to enjoy...books and reading.

Libraries are inherently important places. It is my belief that the general public deserves to have access to free educational materials, period. Because of this, I'd be hard pressed to give any library a rating below a 4. However, the Salt Lake City library is special because it's visually spectacular. While I adore Salt Lake, there's nothing particularly interesting about many of our buildings, especially the skyscrapers. The library is a pleasant and welcome outlier. It's paradoxically perfect. The outside leans more modern and grandiose, but the interior still manages to feel intimate and communal.Glass windows adorn the entire building making the natural light provided nearly unbeatable. The inside offers: levels upon levels of books and materials, computers, a cafe, a coffee shop, a children's section, and numerous places to curl up for the afternoon. Parking is readily available, in the garage or on the street. The only time this isn't the case is during events or festivals. Come summertime you will find the grounds blossoming with people due to the arts festival and LGBTQ pride festival. Ever since the breakup of the homeless shelter at Rio Grande, people have complained about the homeless population congregating here. The vast majority of these people are benign, and you'll more than likely never have an issue. Yelp can only give you so much insight into this space, the best approach to the library is to simply explore it for yourself. I will offer one secret suggestion; if you're looking for some beautiful views of downtown. On the side of the building is a massive staircase you can take to the rooftop. It's a bit of a climb, but I promise it is worth every step.

This new library was so surprising. It's quiet, clean, stunning, huge open spaces, and tons of activities. The views and location are wonderful plus we saw almost every age group either working, reading, or playing here. It's a wonderful family environment but still calm and quiet which is pretty unbelievable. Definitely worth a visit.

Nice rooftop views but garage parking $3 per hour! Alternative is 2 hour meters which is a hassle as well.

After breakfast we headed on over to get our reads on. I make it a point to visit a library if I'm in another state. I've only seen pictures of this ultra funky-modern behemoth and couldn't wait to stop by. I'll keep it short and sweet: it was justified! The building is comprised of five floors of madness, with little shops, boutiques, and a hair salon, lining up as you walk in through the main entrance. The openness of the building itself is just massive in scope. We did some exploring and we walked a lot and took the see-through glass elevators, which were cool, fast, and efficient. They really spent a lot of money on the infrastructure. They even have a rooftop garden and a section of it houses beehives, with actual bees in them. You can go up there and chill and catch a view. If you read my Dunkin Donuts review you'll see the picture I took of the place from the rooftop at the library across the street. As far as materials here they have everything in terms of book, media, periodical, internet access, etc., that you could possibly want. I'm sure we only got 10%-20% of the City Library experience. It's good to know that something like this exists. This is a great place to nourish you mind and should.

Great cities are known for great architecture. The age of our young state means that not many buildings have old influence or a long story, but that just means that what we build today will leave its mark on our city tomorrow. And we alongside the aging edifices of our town, we can construct beautiful new buildings to enjoy. So that's the big picture. The small picture is this: The SLC Library is a gorgeous building that shows off Salt Lake. It's fantastically modern, open, light, airy and a pleasure to spend time in. It's also more than a library. Much more. It's a small collection of shops, indoor and out, and a gathering place to watch films, view art, take classes and be inspired by culture and knowledge in the pursuit of wisdom. As a devotee of the Salt Lake County Library System, I find myself here not for the books, but for all of these other things that surround the library atmosphere. Trax (Salt Lake's public train system) is your best bet. There's street parking around if you have plenty of quarters, and you can park underneath in the garage, but it's kinda pricey. It's also right near some stellar coffee and dining options, so if you make an afternoon of it, you can go on foot. Read, drink, shop, eat; it may seem odd to build a day out of a trip to the library, but it just works.

Opened to the public in 2003 the Salt Lake City Public Library cost a whopping $84 million to build and is an outstanding example of modern architecture. Architecturally, visually, and scholarly the Salt Lake City Public Library is awesome! With over 240,000 square feet of space and a collection of more than 500,000 books, the library is not only beautiful it also offers patrons an absolute wealth of information. Besides featuring LOADS of books the library also has a large collection of periodicals, DVDS, music, and everything else you'd expect at a modern library. They also have a really cute children's area, an art gallery, spaces for meetings and events, a theater, a cafe, some small shops, and many other amenities. One thing that bothers me about the library is the number of vagrants and homeless people who tend to congregate there. The computer areas are nearly always occupied by homeless people or homeless looking people, making it near impossible to ever get access to a computer. I realize they have a right to use the library too but it still makes me a little uncomfortable. I wish I had more opportunity to visit the Salt Lake City Public Library but I live far enough away that it isn't a regular stop for me.

Salt Lake City Public Library is Beautiful. We just went in to look around & took some pictures - I was impressed. This modern library opened Feb 8, 2003. They have an underground parking lot, but when we went they had an event sign for $10 so we just paid at the meter for 1hr. Since it rained Fri 5/18/12 when we went they closed off the 5th Fl Roof Garden. I wish I could have seen it. They have bee hives there too! Two unisex bathrooms available on the 5th. You can take the stairs or fancy elevator up to the 5Fl. 4th Fl we walked down. You can see the "face" art made up of butterfly/book art. Very cool. There's an Art Gallery on the 4th. Some naked pics in there when we visited & other art. Bathrooms available. 3rd Nonfiction, bathrooms. 2 fiction, bathrooms. 1st no bathrooms? Cafe is on this level. Children's library, meeting rooms. Worth a visit.

Great library. However loads of homeless wander and I had one homeless randomly yelling at one point a couple floors below me.

Beautiful architecture! Lots of natural sunlight and places to sit and study. The main lobby area has a cool collection of shops. There is parking along the streets or the library underground parking garage. The top floor has a garden with a great view over the city but it's closed for construction. It should be open in about a month!