-USA.Texas.Austin-
I like checking out libraries. Ever since I was a child I liked spending time surrounded by books and best of all the low noise level! I had no intention of checking out one in Austin though as I did not have much time. However I changed my mind when I stumbled upon some pictures while researching for places to visit in Austin. I pencilled in a visit to the Austin Central Library and I am glad I did.
Entrance fee: Free
Austin Central Library - 2nd Floor
So what’s all the buzz about this library – well not only is it spacious , but the interior design has got to be a definite reason to visit! Check out the floating staircase – the Hogwarts moving staircase coming to mind.
There is an area for special events and its designed bleacher style as seating area. Doors lead outside to an outdoor amphitheatre.
The floor has a restaurant with a nice patio. I would recommend getting a drink from the cafe window facing the inside of the library and bring it up to the rooftop to enjoy. I ordered a pastry together with a refreshing matcha lemonade drink.
Austin Central Library - Floor 3
The Children, Tweens and Teens section are housed on this level. The decor is suitably colourful with children chairs and sitting areas. I was marvelling at some educational toys placed at some areas like that chess board and others. Its really cool and the Porch is an outdoor section with ceiling fans and lots of seating areas.
Austin Central Library - Floor 4 and 5
The 4th floor houses the fiction section, the periodicals in the form of magazines and newspapers and special collections such as comics are available too. There are shared learning rooms in floors 4, 5 and 6 which is open for reservation to be used for study groups or workshop. Very practical idea.
Floor 5 houses a section of non-fiction material , world languages, reference books as well as a technology petting zoo. On display at the time of my visit is a 3-D printer which was very interesting for me to watch it at work.
Austin Central Library - Floor 6
The 6th floor is the one I was most looking forward to as it has a rooftop garden. If I live here, the 6th floor is most likely where you will find me at my leisure time. There are as usual loads of sitting areas with fresh air and I sipped my matcha lemonade I bought from the restaurant downstairs here while admiring the views.
The view of Ladybird Lake withe the bridges are one of the highlights of my visit to the library. There are other views of neighbouring glass buildings as seen below.
To top it off there is a garden to enjoy and provide shade.
I saw the library self-guided. The staff there was very friendly and helpful and got me a map to help me navigate and encouraged me to approach them if I had questions. They provide building tours as well and this needs to be arranged about 2-weeks in advance. You can find the form and further information here . In the link is a virtual tour of the library as well. All in all well worth checking out both physically and virtually!
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