Discover the Libraries in Austin: A Hub of Learning and Community Activities
Austin, known for its vibrant culture and diverse community, is home to numerous libraries that offer more than just books. These libraries serve as community hubs where people of all ages can learn, explore, and connect. From extensive book collections to engaging events, Austin’s libraries provide a wide range of activities and services that make them integral to the community.
Things to Do at Austin Libraries
- Book Borrowing and Reading: The primary function of any library is to provide access to a vast collection of books. Austin libraries offer a wide selection of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, children’s books, and more. Whether you’re a student researching for a project, a professional looking to stay informed, or simply a book lover, Austin libraries have something for everyone.
- Digital Resources: Many libraries in Austin provide access to digital resources such as e-books, audiobooks, and online databases. Patrons can borrow e-books and audiobooks to read or listen to on their devices, making it convenient for those who prefer digital formats.
- Educational Programs: Libraries in Austin host various educational programs for different age groups. From storytimes for children to computer literacy classes for adults, these programs aim to educate and empower the community. Language learning sessions and GED preparation classes are also commonly offered.
- Study and Meeting Spaces: Quiet study rooms and meeting spaces are available for individuals and groups. Students can take advantage of these spaces for studying, while community groups and organizations can book meeting rooms for their activities.
- Creative Workshops: Many libraries offer workshops on arts and crafts, writing, and other creative pursuits. These workshops provide a platform for individuals to learn new skills and express their creativity.
- Technology Access: Libraries in Austin are equipped with computers, printers, and free Wi-Fi, providing essential technology access to those who may not have it at home. Tech support and tutorials are also available to help patrons navigate digital tools.
Major Events at Austin Libraries
- Summer Reading Program: The Summer Reading Program is a major event hosted by Austin libraries each year. It encourages children, teens, and adults to read during the summer months. Participants can earn prizes for reaching reading milestones, and the program often includes special events such as author visits, performances, and workshops.
- Austin Teen Book Festival: This annual event is a celebration of young adult literature. It features author panels, book signings, and interactive activities. Teens can meet their favorite authors, discover new books, and participate in writing workshops.
- Book Sales: Friends of the Library groups often organize book sales to raise funds for library programs and services. These sales are a great opportunity to purchase books, DVDs, and other materials at a low cost while supporting the library.
- Community Forums and Panels: Libraries in Austin frequently host community forums and panel discussions on various topics, including social issues, history, and local culture. These events provide a platform for dialogue and learning, fostering a sense of community.
- Cultural Festivals: Libraries celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Austin through festivals and events that highlight different cultures and traditions. These events often include music, dance, food, and educational presentations.
Annual Events at Austin Libraries
- Library Card Sign-Up Month: Celebrated each September, Library Card Sign-Up Month encourages residents to obtain a library card and explore the many resources available at their local library. Special events and promotions are held to highlight the benefits of being a library cardholder.
- National Library Week: Observed in April, National Library Week is a time to celebrate the contributions of libraries and library workers. Events may include author talks, open houses, and special programs to showcase the library’s role in the community.
- Banned Books Week: This annual event, usually held in September, celebrates the freedom to read and highlights the importance of intellectual freedom. Libraries organize displays and discussions about banned and challenged books to raise awareness about censorship.
Austin’s libraries are more than just repositories of books; they are dynamic centers of learning, creativity, and community engagement. Whether you’re looking to borrow a book, attend a workshop, or participate in a community event, Austin’s libraries offer a wealth of opportunities to enrich your life.

Central Library
512-974-7400
710 W. César Chávez St.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

African American Cultural and Heritage Facility
512-974-2445
912 East 11th Street, Austin, TX 78702
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Saturday: Closed

APL Shop
512-974-9676
710 W. César Chávez St., 2nd Floor
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Tuesday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Austin History Center
512-974-7480
810 Guadalupe St.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Thursday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Carver Branch
512-974-1010
1161 Angelina St.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Cepeda Branch
512-974-7372
651 N. Pleasant Valley Rd.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Hampton Branch at Oak Hill
512-974-9900
5125 Convict Hill Rd.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Howson Branch
512-974-8800
2500 Exposition Blvd.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Little Walnut Creek Branch
512-974-9860
835 W. Rundberg Ln.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Menchaca Road Branch
512-974-8700
5500 Menchaca Rd.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Milwood Branch
512-974-9880
12500 Amherst Dr.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

North Village Branch
512-974-9960
2505 Steck Ave.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Old Quarry Branch
512-974-8860
7051 Village Center Dr.
Old Quarry Branch closed for renovations starting June 17, 2024.

Pleasant Hill Branch
512-974-3940
211 E. William Cannon Dr.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Recycled Reads Bookstore
512-974-7460
5335 Burnet Rd.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Wednesday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Thursday: 11:00 am-7:00 pm
Friday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-6:00 pm

Ruiz Branch
512-974-7500
1600 Grove Blvd.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

St. John Branch
512-974-7570
7500 Blessing Ave.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-4:00 pm

Southeast Branch
512-974-8840
5803 Nuckols Crossing Rd.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Spicewood Springs Branch
512-974-3800
8637 Spicewood Springs Rd.
Sunday: 12:00 pm-5:00 pm
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Terrazas Branch
512-974-3625
1105 E. César Chávez St.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: Closed

Twin Oaks Branch
512-974-9980
1800 S. Fifth St.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

University Hills Branch
512-974-9940
4721 Loyola Ln.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Willie Mae Kirk Branch
512-974-9920
3101 Oak Springs Dr.
Willie Mae Kirk Branch closed for renovations starting July 13, 2024.

Windsor Park Branch
512-974-9840
5833 Westminster Dr.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm

Yarborough Branch
512-974-8820
2200 Hancock Dr.
Sunday: Closed
Monday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Wednesday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Thursday: 9:00 am-8:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am-5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
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