
Parks Library Iowa State University
A vast academic hub with diverse study spaces, art, and resources, though technical glitches and service inconsistencies can arise.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus

Parks Library Iowa State University
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better focus
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast academic hub with diverse study spaces, art, and resources, though technical glitches and service inconsistencies can arise.
"Impressive facilities and resources, but be prepared for potential tech and service hiccups."

📚 Textbook Genesis
Utilize the library's Genesis service for textbooks to save money!
🔌 Power Up Your Study
Many study tables have outlets for charging devices. :iphone:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Quiet Study Nooks
Various floors
Find your perfect spot for focused work amidst comfortable seating and ample power outlets.

Panoramic Views
Upper floors
Take a mental break with stunning campus vistas from the library's higher levels.

Artistic Ambiance
Throughout the library
Appreciate the exclusive and unique art installations that adorn the library's spaces.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Stacks
Textbook Hacks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
best secret study spots?
📚 Textbook Genesis
Utilize the library's Genesis service for textbooks to save money!
🔌 Power Up Your Study
Many study tables have outlets for charging devices. :iphone:
Some Helpful Resources (Especially For New Students)
Visiting ISU this weekend, a non-Virtual visit for son who is trying to select college. Help with reccommending what to see!
🖨️ Printing Services
Printing is available and generally affordable. :printer:
💻 Computer Access
Computers are available, but some may be out of order. :computer:
When and where should I buy textbooks?
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Textbook Genesis
Utilize the library's Genesis service for textbooks to save money!
🔌 Power Up Your Study
Many study tables have outlets for charging devices. :iphone:
🖨️ Printing Services
Printing is available and generally affordable. :printer:
💻 Computer Access
Computers are available, but some may be out of order. :computer:
🤫 Respect Quiet Zones
Adhere to quiet zone rules for a better study experience. :zzz:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Parks Library at Iowa State University is a visually impressive facility with diverse study spaces and valuable resources like the 'Genesis' textbook program. However, visitors frequently report issues with unreliable internet, malfunctioning equipment, and inconsistent staff helpfulness, which can detract from the overall experience.
"I will preface this with the fact that I do not go to school here. I was just in the area and I'm a huge fan of libraries so my boyfriend showed me around. Honestly, I was really impressed with the facilities. There's so many open spaces or nooks and crannies where you could go study. There's also a ton of conference rooms where you could be semi-secluded with a study group. A lot of the study tables have outlets so you can stay connected to a power source or charge your phone while studying.
The upper floors have great views outside so that you can take a visual break every once in awhile. I also found the variety of books to be very impressive. I'm in the health field and I was able to find a lot of books that I use or have used as reference.
I saw that there were printing services that seem decently cheap. Lots of computers. Some more private computers with web cams that could be used for remote proctoring like Examity. Plus, all of the exclusive art in there was pretty cool. Handicap-accessible and also stairs if prefer. Not sure what their policy is on food/drinks."
Melinda
"Easily the most unreliable resource on campus.
Front desk will have 5+ staff members gossiping and none of them will get up to help you or even help you find something. Instead they're quick to say "That's not our job" with an attitude.
Internet is abysmal to the extent if you can't get a desktop you can't access it. Desktops will frequently have 50% plus out of order. Many printers out of order, often every single stapler is empty, and staff give an attitude instead of refilling a stapler for you.
Tech lending service has loaned me multiple laptops that have broken batteries meaning if they are unplugged they die instantly. When told It will not work for my purposes they cop an attitude after having to do paperwork.
Every bathroom is completely disgusting and absolutely coated in human waste to the extent they reek.
Quiet Area rules aren't enforced. Reserved a study room or pod? Well if someone's inside you have maybe a 50/50 chance that the front desk staff will stop sitting on their butts on their phones to enforce your reservation, and even if they help you first they rant at you about how inconvenient it is for them to do their job.
I genuinely avoid this location because 2/3 of the time I come here I end up wasting my time and getting bitched at by staff over the simplest things. Really disappointing with how beautiful the building is, and just how many customer service staff members they have on-site."
Aiolia
"Ever since the advent of digital collections, visiting the physical library seems antiquated. Even if you needed something that is only available in a physical format, the ISU library offers a digital delivery service where they will scan the article/chapter that you request, up to a certain limited number of times per year. Reasons that I visit the library now is to attend librarian led information sessions, visit the IT for sending mass e-mails, or to meet with someone over coffee. Reasons that other people use the library also include the need for a quiet study space (in case of a noisy roommate situation) or use a group study room to, well, group study."
John Hsieh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parks Library is centrally located on the Iowa State University campus. It's easily accessible by foot, bike, or campus bus routes. Parking is available in nearby garages, though it can be limited during peak hours.
Yes, there are parking garages and lots near Parks Library. However, availability can be scarce, especially during the academic year. Consider using campus shuttles or biking if possible.
Absolutely! Iowa State University has a robust campus bus system that serves the library. Check the CyRide schedule for routes and times.
Yes, Parks Library is handicap-accessible with both stairs and elevators available for navigating different floors.
Library hours vary by semester and day of the week, often extending into late hours during finals. It's best to check the official Iowa State University Library website for the most current operating hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
As a university library, Parks Library is generally open to students, faculty, staff, and the public. An Iowa State ID may be required for certain services like borrowing materials or accessing specific resources.
There are no entry fees to access Parks Library. It's a public resource for learning and research.
Yes, study rooms and pods can be reserved. However, enforcement of reservations can sometimes be inconsistent, so be prepared for potential issues.
The policy on food and drinks can vary. While some areas might be more lenient, it's generally advisable to be mindful and clean up after yourself to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone.
Iowa State students and staff can access digital collections and databases remotely with their university credentials. The library also offers a digital delivery service for scanning requested materials.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Parks Library offers a variety of study spaces, from open areas with tables and chairs to private nooks and crannies. There are also numerous conference rooms suitable for group study sessions.
Internet reliability can be a concern for some users. While desktops may offer more stable access, Wi-Fi can be inconsistent.
Yes, the library provides computers and printing services. However, be aware that a significant number of computers and printers may be out of order at any given time.
The 'Genesis' service is a resource that can help students obtain textbooks, potentially saving them money compared to purchasing new.
Enforcement of quiet area rules can be inconsistent, and staff may not always intervene promptly if rules are broken.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities within Parks Library might be limited, there are often cafes or vending machines available. It's also common for students to bring their own snacks.
The policy on outside food and drinks can be flexible, but it's best to be discreet and clean up thoroughly to maintain the library's environment.
The Iowa State University campus has numerous dining halls, cafes, and restaurants within walking distance of Parks Library.
It's generally advisable to keep beverages in spill-proof containers to prevent damage to library materials and equipment.
Consider non-messy, quiet snacks like granola bars, fruit, or nuts. Avoid anything that might be noisy or leave crumbs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but be respectful of other patrons and avoid disrupting study activities. Commercial photography may require special permission.
The upper floors offer great panoramic views of the campus, and the unique art installations throughout the library provide interesting backdrops.
Large equipment like tripods might be restricted, especially during busy hours, to avoid obstructing pathways. Check with library staff if you plan to use extensive gear.
Photography of the art is usually allowed for personal enjoyment, but always be mindful of any specific signage or restrictions related to particular pieces.
Weekday mornings or late evenings tend to be less crowded, offering better opportunities for unobstructed shots. Natural light from the upper floors can also be appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be mindful of the library's quiet zone policies, as enforcement can be inconsistent. While there are no explicit 'kid zones,' the upper floors with views might offer a brief, engaging distraction. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to minimize disruption to other patrons.
💰 Budget Travelers & Students
Even for non-students visiting the area, the library offers a free and impressive space to explore. The variety of books and the unique art make it an interesting cultural stop. Just be aware of potential issues with Wi-Fi and computer availability if you're relying on them for critical tasks.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Digital Divide
Beyond Wi-Fi, the tech lending service has also faced criticism for loaning out laptops with faulty batteries, leading to immediate shutdowns when unplugged. This unreliability can disrupt study sessions and cause frustration for those needing functional equipment.
Despite these technical issues, the library does provide access to computers and printing services. However, visitors are advised to be prepared for potential downtime and to have backup plans for accessing essential digital resources.
The Student Study Experience
However, the study experience can be marred by inconsistent enforcement of quiet zone rules and issues with room reservations. Some students report that staff are not always proactive in addressing noise disturbances or ensuring reserved study rooms are vacated. This can lead to frustration and wasted time when seeking a quiet or private space.
Despite these challenges, the library remains a vital resource for students, especially those with poor internet at home. The availability of group study rooms also makes it a valuable spot for collaborative projects.
Library Staff and Services
The tech lending service has also drawn criticism for its handling of equipment issues and the associated paperwork. Patrons have reported being met with an attitude when trying to resolve problems with loaned devices.
Conversely, the library does offer valuable services like the 'Genesis' textbook access program, which is highly praised for its cost-saving potential. Librarian-led information sessions and IT support for tasks like sending mass emails are also beneficial services.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit