Original Carnegie-Stout Library building. Built in 1902.
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Carnegie-Stout Public Library

4.6
·142 reviews·Dubuque, United States

A beautifully restored Carnegie library blending historic charm with modern amenities, offering unique services and vibrant community events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
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Original Carnegie-Stout Library building. Built in 1902.

Carnegie-Stout Public Library

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more space

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautifully restored Carnegie library blending historic charm with modern amenities, offering unique services and vibrant community events.

4.6
(142 reviews)

"The most beautiful Library I have seen yet. Lots of history inside them walls, beautiful Art on display, Architecture is gorgeous."

Vertical photo
TIP

📚 Explore Beyond Books

Don't miss unique rentals like baking dishes or attend free events like self-defense classes! :gift:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Downtown parking can be tough. Use the mall book delivery for easier access! :car:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Architecture & Art

Stunning Architecture & Art

Throughout the library

Marvel at the beautifully restored Carnegie building and its modern addition, adorned with captivating art displays.

Reddit
Engaging Community Events

Engaging Community Events

Various rooms and spaces

From kids' activities and teen rooms to self-defense classes and bake-offs, there's always something happening for everyone.

Reddit
Unique Rental Services

Unique Rental Services

Circulation desk

Borrow more than just books! Check out baking dishes, access modern computers, and utilize the electronics charging station.

Reddit
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Beyond Books: Explore Unique Offerings

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library is more than just books! Discover unique services like baking dish rentals, self-defense classes, and even a 'makespace.' Check their event calendar for engaging activities for all ages, from kids' programs to adult workshops. Reddit

Parking & Downtown Access

While the library itself is a gem, downtown Dubuque parking can be tricky with meters. Consider using the library's book delivery service to the mall for easier access and ample parking if you prefer to avoid downtown hassles. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more space
Crowd
Low
When
Event days
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We were apparently so loud that the library above us could hear us 😭 Thanks @Andrew T for filming this 😇 #seniorhighschool #dubuquesenior #chug #chugchallenge #lemonjuice #lemonjuicechallenge #fyp #foryou
@buzzchugz53
515.5K likes • 7.7M views

📚 Explore Beyond Books

Don't miss unique rentals like baking dishes or attend free events like self-defense classes! Reddit :gift:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Downtown parking can be tough. Use the mall book delivery for easier access! Reddit :car:

Library Gardening time! Today I’m weeding the oldest books in the entire library and it hurt me. They’re being culled for more than just their age, but their age is how they made it onto this list to be looked at. #schoollibrarian #librarygarden #weeding #gardening #librarytok #BookTok #oldbooks
@thecontouredlibrarian
126.8K likes • 1.6M views
The Library has it all! #Library #LibraryTok #LibraryTikTok
@cincylibrary
103K likes • 695.8K views

✨ Admire the Art & Arch

Take time to appreciate the gorgeous architecture and rotating art displays. Reddit :frame_photo:

💻 Tech & Makespace

Utilize free computer access, charging stations, and the 'makespace' for creative projects. Reddit :computer:

It’s hard to ask sometimes. But you can still find help at the library. #library #librarytiktok
@pameladelupio
99.4K likes • 1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

📚 Explore Beyond Books

Don't miss unique rentals like baking dishes or attend free events like self-defense classes! Reddit :gift:

🅿️ Parking Strategy

Downtown parking can be tough. Use the mall book delivery for easier access! Reddit :car:

✨ Admire the Art & Arch

Take time to appreciate the gorgeous architecture and rotating art displays. Reddit :frame_photo:

💻 Tech & Makespace

Utilize free computer access, charging stations, and the 'makespace' for creative projects. Reddit :computer:

📅 Check Event Calendar

See what's happening! From kids' rooms to adult workshops, there's something for everyone. Reddit :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(142 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Carnegie-Stout Public Library for its stunning architecture, engaging events, and unique services like baking dish rentals. It's lauded as a beautiful, well-maintained community hub offering something for everyone, from children to seniors. Some minor drawbacks include the typical downtown parking challenges.

"5/9/24 @ 5 pm - This is probably one of my favorite libraries I've visited in the U.S. Not only is the architecture and decor strikingly beautiful and well-thought out, the activities, variety of leases, and engaging events are likely a catch for everyone (small kids to senior citizens)! They have kids' room, teens' room, so many different rooms, help desks, sitting areas, donation boxes, restrooms, art displays, games, etc. I could write about this library in numerous paragraphs and still not cover all it has to offer and see. I particularly loved the daily bake off (see photos), electronics charging station, baking dish rentals, self-defense classes, modern computer game for up to four kids to play at once. Visit if you're in the area or not too far. This would be a regular destination for me if I lived here. My camera was blurry on this rainy day, but hopefully pics help someone make an informed decision."

Stephanie

"The most beautiful Library I have seen yet. Lots of history inside them walls, beautiful Art on display, Architecture is gorgeous.
Lots of reading & Media sections, well laid out. Wonderful Make-space as well.
I highly recommend you visit this Library when in Town."

Curious Traveler

"We have a great library with a great staff. In addition to the physical location they have the best online resources for books, magazines and movies. Because of the city's gouging and hostile meters I do not like to go downtown but the library has a great system where I can get books delivered at the mall which has lots of parking."

Charlie HOLLENSED

What People Like

Beautiful architecture & art
Unique rental services
Engaging community events

What People Dislike

Downtown parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library is located in downtown Dubuque, Iowa. While driving is an option, be aware that downtown parking can be challenging due to meters. For a more convenient experience, consider utilizing the library's book delivery service to the mall, which offers ample parking. Reddit

Parking directly at the library can be limited and metered. Many visitors opt for the library's book delivery service to the mall, which provides easier parking options. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes to the downtown Dubuque area can be found on the city's transit authority website. The library is generally accessible via local bus services.

Library hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Carnegie-Stout Public Library website for the most up-to-date information on their daily and weekly operating hours.

Yes, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library is designed to be accessible. It offers various accommodations to ensure all visitors can comfortably navigate and utilize its resources.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to the Carnegie-Stout Public Library is completely free. It's a public institution dedicated to serving the community with access to resources and programs. Reddit

You do not need a library card to enter and explore the library. However, to borrow materials or use certain services, a library card is required. You can typically sign up for one on-site.

Yes, the library offers study rooms and meeting spaces that can be reserved. It's recommended to check the library's website or inquire at the information desk for reservation policies and availability.

The library hosts a wide array of events for all ages, including children's programs, teen activities, adult workshops, and community gatherings. Check their event calendar online for the latest schedule. Reddit

Yes, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library provides free Wi-Fi access for all visitors. You can connect your devices to browse the internet and access online resources.

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library boasts a variety of unique services, including baking dish rentals, self-defense classes, a 'makespace,' electronics charging stations, and even notary services. Reddit

Absolutely! The library features dedicated spaces for children and teens, offering age-appropriate books, activities, and comfortable areas for them to explore and learn. Reddit

The library is renowned for its stunning architecture, featuring a beautifully restored historic Carnegie building complemented by a well-done modern addition. Art displays are also a prominent feature. Reddit

Yes, the library provides public access computers with internet connectivity and printing services. There may be a small fee for printing. Reddit

The library offers numerous comfortable sitting areas, reading nooks, and study spaces throughout its various sections, making it a great place to relax or focus. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Generally, food and drinks are not permitted in the main library areas to protect the collections. However, there might be designated areas or cafes within or near the library where you can consume refreshments. It's best to check the library's specific policies.

Being located in downtown Dubuque, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library is surrounded by various dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants, offering a range of cuisines to suit different tastes.

While some libraries offer cafes or vending machines, it's not a standard feature. It's advisable to check the library's amenities on their website or inquire upon arrival to see if such facilities are available.

As a general rule for libraries, bringing outside food and drinks into the main reading and collection areas is discouraged to prevent damage. Look for designated break areas if available.

The library sometimes hosts events that may involve food, such as bake-offs or cooking demonstrations. Keep an eye on their event calendar for any culinary-themed activities. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the beautiful architecture and art. However, always be mindful of other patrons and avoid disruptive flash photography. Reddit

While personal photography is usually permitted, professional or commercial photography might require special permission. It's a good idea to check with library staff if you plan on extensive photo shoots. Reddit

The grand architecture of the historic Carnegie building, the art displays, and the well-designed modern addition offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The children's and teen areas can also be visually interesting. Reddit

For events, it's best to be discreet. If you're unsure, ask the event organizer or library staff if photography is permitted, especially if it involves performances or presentations. TikTok

Visitors often highlight the stunning interior views, the blend of old and new architecture, and the vibrant art installations as prime photo subjects. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library is a fantastic destination for families. It features dedicated children's rooms and teen areas designed to engage younger visitors with age-appropriate books, activities, and comfortable spaces. Reddit Beyond the standard offerings, the library often hosts special family-friendly events and programs that provide educational and entertaining experiences for all ages. Reddit Parents will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the wealth of resources available to foster a love of reading and learning in their children. TikTok

📚 Book Lovers & Researchers

For avid readers and diligent researchers, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library is a treasure trove. Its extensive collection spans various genres and subjects, ensuring there's something for every interest. Beyond physical books, the library provides access to a robust selection of online resources, including e-books, audiobooks, magazines, and databases, accessible both within the library and remotely. Reddit The availability of public computers and free Wi-Fi further supports research endeavors, making it an ideal spot for students and lifelong learners alike. Reddit

💡 Creative Minds & Makers

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library is a haven for the creatively inclined. Its innovative 'makespace' offers tools and resources for hands-on projects, encouraging experimentation and skill development. Reddit Whether you're interested in crafting, technology, or simply exploring new hobbies, the makespace provides a supportive environment. Additionally, the library's unique rental services, such as baking dishes, cater to practical creative pursuits, demonstrating a commitment to supporting diverse community interests. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub of Community and Innovation

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library transcends the traditional definition of a library, serving as a vibrant community hub. Beyond its extensive collection of books and media, it offers a wealth of unique services that cater to diverse needs and interests. Visitors rave about the baking dish rentals, a surprisingly popular amenity that allows patrons to borrow kitchenware for their culinary adventures. Reddit The library also hosts a variety of engaging events, from self-defense classes for personal safety to creative workshops in its 'makespace,' fostering a spirit of learning and skill-sharing. Reddit This commitment to community enrichment makes it a dynamic destination for all ages. TikTok

Furthermore, the library embraces modern technology to enhance the visitor experience. Electronics charging stations are readily available, ensuring devices stay powered up while patrons browse or work. Reddit The presence of modern computers and reliable free Wi-Fi makes it an ideal spot for remote work, research, or simply staying connected. Reddit These thoughtful additions underscore the library's dedication to being a relevant and accessible resource in the digital age, proving that libraries offer far more than just printed materials. TikTok

Architectural Gem and Artistic Showcase

The Carnegie-Stout Public Library is a feast for the eyes, celebrated for its striking architecture and beautiful art displays. The building itself is a testament to historical preservation and thoughtful modern design, seamlessly blending the grandeur of its original Carnegie structure with a well-executed contemporary addition. Reddit This architectural duality creates a unique and visually appealing environment that many visitors find captivating. The interior is often described as gorgeous, with attention paid to every detail, making it a pleasure to explore. Reddit

Adding to its allure, the library serves as a platform for local and regional artists, showcasing a variety of art on display. Reddit These rotating exhibits provide a cultural enrichment that complements the literary offerings, making a visit to the library a multi-faceted experience. Whether you're a history buff, an art enthusiast, or simply appreciate beautiful spaces, the Carnegie-Stout Public Library offers a visually rewarding experience that goes beyond its function as a repository of knowledge. Reddit The blend of historical significance and artistic expression makes it a standout destination. TikTok

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