Public Libraries

Never mind that old adage about judging a book by its cover: the way a library is designed makes an undeniable difference for its patrons. Here are 20 of the nation's most picturesque.

March 23, 2018 - Curbed

The city wants both public uses to be housed in "eye-catching works of architecture."

November 7, 2016 - Chicago Tribune

In 2006, Dallas voters approved a bond package that promised $42 million for new libraries. Ten years later, and after $11.75 million in spending, none of the projects are close to completion.

May 10, 2016 - The Dallas Morning News

A study by the Center for Urban Future reveals library hours in New York City to have improved a great deal in recent years—while still lagging behind state and national averages.

April 14, 2016 - Center For An Urban Future

The New York Times editorial board questions the priorities of a city that can support sports facilities with hundreds of millions of dollars in taxpayer funds but neglects its libraries.

May 7, 2015 - The New York Times

Two proposals for library makeovers in Brooklyn tie into a larger narrative about development, and architecture, in New York City.

January 27, 2015 - New York Times

In McAllen, Texas, WalMart Stores Inc. abandoned one of their big box stores. Rather than let it collect dust, the city transformed it into the U.S.'s largest public library.

July 2, 2012 - Grist

Cities from Fayetville, AR to Pendleton, OR are taking advantage of their public libraries as places to get input on important strategic initiatives.

September 20, 2011 - ICMA