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Denver Public Library: Central Library

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Explore millions of resources and discover a vibrant community hub at Denver's iconic Central Library. A landmark of knowledge and architectural significance.

The Denver Public Library's Central Library, a civic and architectural landmark in downtown Denver, Colorado, houses over two million items and welcomes over a million visitors annually. Designed by Michael Graves in a postmodern style, it offers a wealth of resources and a vibrant community space.

A brief summary to Denver Public Library: Central Library

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Check the Denver Public Library website for events, exhibits, and programs happening during your visit.
  • Explore the library's architecture, including the gold-domed rotunda and public art installations.
  • Utilize the library's free Wi-Fi and computer access.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Central Library is easily accessible via Denver's Regional Transportation District (RTD). Several bus routes stop near the library, and the 16th Street MallRide, a free shuttle, provides convenient access from downtown. Use the RTD Trip Planner to find the best route from your location. A standard one-way fare is $2.75.

  • Walking

    Located in downtown Denver's Golden Triangle neighborhood, the Central Library is within walking distance of many attractions, including the Denver Art Museum and Civic Center Park. From the 16th Street Mall, walk south towards Civic Center Park and continue to West 14th Avenue. The library is located on the south side of 14th Avenue.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Denver. A short taxi ride within downtown Denver typically costs around $9.10, but fares may vary depending on distance and traffic. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver or check the app before you start your trip.

  • Driving

    If driving, parking is available in the Cultural Center Complex Garage at 65 W. 12th Avenue, just west of Broadway. Hourly rates range from $2 for 1 hour to $16 for 12 hours. Metered street parking is also available, but limited, with a maximum of 1-2 hours and a cost of $2 per hour. Several parking lots are also located near the library. Expect to pay between $6 to $21 for nearby parking.

Discover more about Denver Public Library: Central Library

The Denver Public Library's Central Library stands as a prominent landmark in Denver's Golden Triangle neighborhood. Opened in 1995, the 540,000-square-foot building, designed by architect Michael Graves, blends postmodern design with abstracted classical forms. The library not only serves as a repository of knowledge, housing over two million items, but also as a dynamic community hub, hosting events, exhibits, and offering various programs for all ages. The Central Library's history dates back to 1889 when the first public library was established in a wing of Denver High School. In 1910, a dedicated Central Library, funded by Andrew Carnegie, opened in Civic Center Park. As the city grew, a new, larger building was commissioned in 1956. By 1990, the collection had outgrown the space, leading to the construction of the current Central Library. Visitors can explore the library's vast collection, including books, movies, DVDs, reference materials, and photographs. The Special Collections and Archives department offers resources for Western history and genealogy. The library's architecture itself is a draw, with its gold-domed rotunda and interior spaces designed to encourage exploration and a sense of community. The building also features public art, including a 130-yard mural of Colorado and the American West by Edward Ruscha and Donald Lipski's 21-foot tall pinto sculpture. The Central Library has played a significant role in Denver's civic life, even hosting the G8 Summit in 1997. Today, it continues to evolve, with recent renovations aimed at creating a more welcoming and functional space for the community.

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