Biblioteca Pública del Estado Juan José Arreola
A vast, free public library in Zapopan, Jalisco, offering an immense book collection, stunning architecture, and cultural events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Biblioteca Pública del Estado Juan José Arreola
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, free public library in Zapopan, Jalisco, offering an immense book collection, stunning architecture, and cultural events.
"An astounding number of books in a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with comfortable areas to relax and geek out."
Free Entry & Exploration
Entry is free! Wander through all seven stories and discover diverse collections.
Borrowing Books
External book loans are available with a specific process. Check their profile for details.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vast Book Collection
Explore floors dedicated to every subject imaginable, including foreign languages. An astounding number of books await discovery.
Art & Architecture
Admire the elegant and modern building, featuring art galleries and unique architectural spaces. A feast for the eyes!
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Cultural Activities
Engage with various cultural events, exhibitions, and activities hosted regularly. Check their schedule for special happenings.
Quiet Study & Reflection Spaces
Find peaceful corners and comfortable seating areas perfect for reading, journaling, or quiet contemplation.
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Planning Your Visit
Free Access to Knowledge
Beyond Books: Culture & More
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Exploration
Entry is free! Wander through all seven stories and discover diverse collections.
Borrowing Books
External book loans are available with a specific process. Check their profile for details.
Quiet Zones
Many areas are dedicated to quiet study and reflection. Respect the peaceful atmosphere.
Cafe & Bookstore
Enjoy a coffee at the cafe or browse the bookstore on the ground floor.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Exploration
Entry is free! Wander through all seven stories and discover diverse collections.
Borrowing Books
External book loans are available with a specific process. Check their profile for details.
Quiet Zones
Many areas are dedicated to quiet study and reflection. Respect the peaceful atmosphere.
Cafe & Bookstore
Enjoy a coffee at the cafe or browse the bookstore on the ground floor.
Check for Events
The library hosts various cultural activities and exhibitions. Stay updated!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Biblioteca Pública del Estado Juan José Arreola for its immense and diverse book collection, stunning modern architecture, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for reading and reflection. While some note past issues with Wi-Fi and occasional dustiness in seating areas, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its value as a free cultural and educational resource.
"I absolutely loved coming to this local library not far from where I was staying.
As a kid, I always drove by this place and wondered what it was, but never in a million years did I think it was a library. I finally had the chance to come and see the inside and pay it a visit.
One thing I noticed before entering the building was that it is quite large. The diorama on the wall said there were 7 stories to it, each one containing different kinds of books and literatures. The bottom floor houses a bookstore with an array of genres to choose from and even merchandise sold by the local university. They also had a cafe in the very corner of the bookstore.
I continued to go up each level of the building and found the library's collection to be astounding, as they seemed to have books for every single subject and topic possible. They even had a floor dedicated only to books in foreign languages such as English, French and Mandarin.
It was really quiet in here as well and made for a peaceful place to come and reflect, journal and read."
Gustavo Espinoza Jr
"An enormous amount of books.A quiet and peaceful atmosphere, with areas where you can sit an relax, also has a cafeteria. There's music playing on the background and it's absolutely lovely. A place for people who adores peaceful environments."
Nadia Hannigram (Hannibal)
"Great place, the collection of books is good... And if you are the ones looking for a place to stay, read and relax this is it! It's kind of sad that people doesn't come to visit the library... Sometimes the chairs are dusty.
They also have a self-learning area for languages.
Ohhh WiFi (FEB 2018) are not available... Yeahp. That's bad. They used to have open wifi connections... Hope they change their minds."
Mauricio Carvajal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The library is located in Zapopan, Jalisco. Public transportation options are available, and it's often mentioned as being accessible within the city. Many visitors arrive by car or public transit.
Information on dedicated parking can be limited. It's advisable to check local parking regulations or consider public transport to avoid any hassle.
While specific details aren't always highlighted, modern public buildings in Mexico often strive for accessibility. It's best to contact the library directly for detailed information on ramps, elevators, and accessible facilities.
From downtown Guadalajara, you can typically take a bus or taxi/ride-sharing service to Zapopan. The journey time will vary depending on traffic.
Zapopan itself has several points of interest. Combining a visit with exploring the Zapopan historic center or nearby cultural sites can make for a full day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Biblioteca Pública del Estado Juan José Arreola is completely free and open to the public.
Opening hours can vary, especially on weekends and holidays. It's recommended to check the library's official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, the library offers external book loans. There's a specific process involved, and you can find more details on their official channels.
General entry and access to many areas are free. For specific services like borrowing books, there might be a registration process, but it's typically free or very low cost.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted in library reading areas to maintain a clean and quiet environment. However, there is a cafe on-site.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
The library boasts an enormous collection covering virtually every subject imaginable, including a floor dedicated to foreign language books.
Absolutely! The library is known for its peaceful atmosphere and offers numerous comfortable areas perfect for quiet study, reflection, and reading.
Historically, Wi-Fi availability has been inconsistent, with some users reporting no internet access upstairs due to past events. It's best to check current availability upon arrival or bring your own mobile hotspot.
Yes, the library frequently hosts cultural activities, exhibitions, and events. Keep an eye on their social media or website for schedules.
Yes, it's a great place to visit with kids, offering a vast collection and a stimulating environment. They sometimes have weekend activities geared towards families.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located on the ground floor, near the bookstore, where you can grab a coffee or a snack.
It's generally not allowed to consume outside food and drinks in the reading areas. The on-site cafe is the designated place for refreshments.
Being in Zapopan, there are numerous restaurants and eateries in the vicinity. You can find a variety of local and international cuisine options nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, especially to capture the architecture and ambiance. However, professional shoots or flash photography might require special permission.
The modern architecture, grand staircases, and expansive reading rooms offer many photogenic opportunities. Don't miss the art installations and unique design elements.
Be mindful of other visitors and avoid disrupting their quiet time. Always ask for permission if you plan to photograph specific exhibits or individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the books, the library often hosts weekend activities that are great for kids, making it a fun and educational outing. The peaceful atmosphere also provides a calm space for families to spend quality time together, perhaps reading side-by-side or exploring new interests.
📚 Students and Researchers
While Wi-Fi availability has been noted as inconsistent in the past, the sheer volume of physical resources and the conducive study environment make it a prime location for academic pursuits. Consider bringing your own mobile hotspot if reliable internet is crucial for your work.
📸 Aspiring Photographers and Art Lovers
+1 Don't miss the Galería Jesús Guerrero Galván for a dose of artistic inspiration. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and their quiet time while capturing the beauty of the space. Personal photography is generally welcomed, adding another layer to the library's appeal as a cultural destination.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Collection: A Reader's Paradise
One particularly impressive feature is the dedicated floor for foreign language books, offering a gateway to international literature and learning. This makes the library a valuable resource not just for local residents but also for those looking to expand their linguistic horizons. The organization of the collection ensures that navigating this vast sea of knowledge is a manageable and enjoyable experience.
Beyond traditional books, the library also houses special collections, including historical documents and university titles, showcasing its role in preserving cultural heritage.
+1 This commitment to diverse literary and historical preservation underscores its importance as a cultural institution. The library's mission extends beyond mere lending; it aims to be a comprehensive resource for knowledge and cultural enrichment. More Than Just Books: A Cultural Hub
+1Visitors can explore spaces like the Galería Jesús Guerrero Galván, which showcases impressive artwork, contributing to the library's multifaceted appeal.
This integration of art and literature creates a rich environment where visitors can experience culture in multiple forms. The library actively participates in community initiatives, such as Parking Day, by transforming public spaces and fostering dialogue. This commitment to cultural dissemination makes the library a vibrant meeting point, fostering a sense of shared identity and respecting diversity. It's a place where knowledge, art, and community converge, offering a unique and enriching experience for all who visit.
+1Architectural Marvel and Ambiance
+1Many visitors highlight the peaceful and quiet atmosphere within the library, noting comfortable areas perfect for relaxation, journaling, or deep reading.
While the building is a modern marvel, it also respects its role as a keeper of history and knowledge. The blend of contemporary design with the timeless value of books creates a unique and memorable setting.
+1 It's a space that encourages exploration and appreciation, both for its contents and its design. 
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