Salt Lake City Public Library (Main)
A modern architectural marvel with a walkable glass wall and a rooftop garden offering stunning mountain views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful.
Salt Lake City Public Library (Main)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A modern architectural marvel with a walkable glass wall and a rooftop garden offering stunning mountain views.
"An architectural masterpiece with breathtaking mountain views from its rooftop garden."
🎯 Rooftop Access Patience
The rooftop can close early. Ask staff if you can get a quick peek, especially if you traveled far!
👨👩👧 Kids' Paradise
The children's library on the bottom floor is a huge hit with families.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.5 · 1,036 reviews
Type
Library
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rooftop Garden
Top Floor
Panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains from a unique urban oasis. A must-see for any visitor.
Children's Library
Bottom Floor
An expansive, engaging space designed for young readers with accessible shelves and play areas.
The Walkable Wall
Interior Atrium
An impressive six-story curved glass wall that you can walk alongside, offering unique perspectives.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Architecture & Views
Navigating the Space & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Rooftop Access Patience
The rooftop can close early. Ask staff if you can get a quick peek, especially if you traveled far!
👨👩👧 Kids' Paradise
The children's library on the bottom floor is a huge hit with families.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tricky. Consider using public transport like UTA buses.
🏙️ Architectural Gem
Don't just see it, experience the unique design and natural light.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Rooftop Access Patience
The rooftop can close early. Ask staff if you can get a quick peek, especially if you traveled far!
👨👩👧 Kids' Paradise
The children's library on the bottom floor is a huge hit with families.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking can be tricky. Consider using public transport like UTA buses.
🏙️ Architectural Gem
Don't just see it, experience the unique design and natural light.
☕ Cafe & Shops Inside
Grab a coffee or browse local shops within the library's atrium.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Salt Lake City Public Library's stunning modern architecture and the breathtaking views from its rooftop garden. The children's library is a major hit with families. However, some reviews mention concerns about the presence of unsheltered individuals and the cleanliness of certain areas.
"The library is beautiful, with shops in the five-story high atrium, and a rooftop, surrounded by the Wasatch Mountains.
It's their re-opening day. The celebratory party is held on the rooftop, with light food served. Unfortunately, it's a cloudy day. But many people, especially families with children, showed up, which contradicts the empty streets that I often see.
The library dates back to 1898. After a few moves, they have settled at the current location since 2003. The city issued an $84 million library bond, with Moshe Safdie (1938-, Haifa) and Associates as the architect.
Almost from every corner of the library, I see the snowy peaks of the Wasatch Mountains. Each floor is pretty empty, which is the norm."
Irene Eng
"It’s a stunning library—an architectural masterpiece. But what an absolute disgrace to see it overrun by filthy, foul-smelling junkies!
How are they allowed to literally camp out inside? Just look at the videos I posted—and that’s only a fraction of what’s going on. The stench is overwhelming. They’ve turned this beautiful public space into a giant, unsanitary toilet.
Every floor reeks. People are bringing in bags of chips, soda cans, piles of junk—even portable gas stoves. Gas stoves. Inside a library. It’s beyond comprehension.
This has to stop. There should be basic hygiene and dress standards at the entrance—odor control included. And we need to ban certain items outright: no food bags, no drinks, and certainly no camping gear or cooking equipment.
This is supposed to be a place for learning and inspiration—not a biohazard zone"
Rashid Mak
"Beautiful building and friendly staff. When we went it was the middle of major blizzard, and there were lots of homeless people on the main floor. The small reading areas were full of garbage. The library has an amazing children's area with accessible shelves for little ones and lovely play areas."
Genevieve K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Salt Lake City Main Library is centrally located downtown. You can easily reach it by car, though parking can be challenging. Public transportation is a great alternative; UTA buses have stops nearby, making it accessible without a car.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be limited and sometimes difficult to find, especially during peak hours. Consider using nearby parking garages or opting for public transit.
Absolutely! The library is in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, making it a pleasant walk from many hotels. Enjoy the urban scenery on your way.
For families, consider driving and utilizing any available parking or taking a bus directly to the downtown area. The children's library is on the bottom floor, making it easy to access upon arrival.
Yes, the library is surrounded by downtown attractions, including Temple Square, City Creek Center, and various museums and parks, making it easy to combine your visit with other sightseeing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Salt Lake City Public Library is free for everyone. It's a public space open to all for reading, working, and exploring.
The library's hours can vary, but it's generally open daily, with extended hours on some weekdays. It's always a good idea to check the official library website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
The rooftop garden's access can be restricted, sometimes closing earlier than the main library. It's best to inquire about its operating hours upon arrival, especially if it's a primary reason for your visit.
While general admission is free, some special events, workshops, or classes hosted at the library might have associated fees. Check the library's event calendar for details.
Yes, the library offers study rooms and computer access. Reservations are often recommended, especially during busy periods. You can usually book these online through the library's website.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond books, you can explore the stunning architecture, visit the rooftop garden, enjoy the dedicated children's library, browse shops and cafes, and utilize study spaces.
Yes, the library has an exceptional children's library on the bottom floor, featuring accessible shelves and engaging play areas, making it a fantastic destination for families.
The library offers spectacular views of the surrounding Wasatch Mountains, especially from the rooftop garden and upper floors.
Yes, the library atrium includes shops and cafes where you can purchase food and beverages.
The library is a modern architectural masterpiece, known for its six-story walkable glass wall, abundant natural light, and unique curved design.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed for non-commercial purposes. However, it's always best to be respectful of other patrons and avoid disruptive flash photography.
The rooftop garden offers stunning mountain vistas, the interior atrium with its walkable wall provides unique architectural shots, and the children's library has colorful and engaging backdrops.
Yes, the rooftop is a prime spot for photography, offering panoramic views. Be mindful of any posted rules or staff instructions regarding photography on the rooftop.
Drone photography is typically not permitted inside public buildings like libraries due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check specific regulations if you plan to use a drone.
Daytime offers the best natural light, especially for capturing the architectural details and mountain views. Golden hour before sunset can also provide beautiful lighting on the exterior and surrounding mountains.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit