Arabian Library
A stunning architectural gem in Scottsdale, offering a vibrant children's area and a welcoming space for books and community.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter for study and reading
Arabian Library
Best Time
Quieter for study and reading
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural gem in Scottsdale, offering a vibrant children's area and a welcoming space for books and community.
"This library is a work of art. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the inside is filled with awesome and friendly staff."
🎯 Admire the Design
Don't just come for books; the architecture is a must-see!
🧸 Kids' Play Zone
Bring the little ones for hours of fun in the dedicated play area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Masterpiece
A desert fortress design that blends seamlessly with the landscape, offering a unique and inspiring atmosphere.
Spacious Children's Area
A vibrant and engaging space for kids with books, toys, a play kitchen, and puppets.
Community Programs
From jigsaw puzzle competitions to story times with local police, there's always something happening.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Architecture
Kid-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Admire the Design
Don't just come for books; the architecture is a must-see!
🧸 Kids' Play Zone
Bring the little ones for hours of fun in the dedicated play area.
📅 Check Event Calendar
Discover unique programs like puzzle contests and story times.
🚗 Parking & Access
It's larger than it looks; parking is available, and the walk to the entrance is worth it.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Admire the Design
Don't just come for books; the architecture is a must-see!
🧸 Kids' Play Zone
Bring the little ones for hours of fun in the dedicated play area.
📅 Check Event Calendar
Discover unique programs like puzzle contests and story times.
🚗 Parking & Access
It's larger than it looks; parking is available, and the walk to the entrance is worth it.
💳 Free Library Card
Maricopa County residents get a free card for access to all resources.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Arabian Library's stunning architecture and its fantastic, well-equipped children's area, making it a standout destination. While many praise the friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, some note that the library can become quite noisy, impacting its suitability for those seeking absolute quiet for study.
"This library is a work of art. The architecture alone is worth the visit, but the inside is filled with awesome and friendly staff, great books, a fun youth/kid area, and more! One of the best libraries I've been to in the US."
Christopher Zahn
"It's a very nice library, but I wish there was better signage because I drove by it the first time. It's much larger than it appears to be from the parking lot. It is a long walk to get in, but once you are in, it's a very comfortable setting and the sections are easy to find. Lots of seating spread out around the spacing. I took my grandson and he had a blast. We finally left after nearly 3 hours, but he would have stayed all day if I'd have let him. Between the play area and the variety of books, he was in 7th heaven."
Rick Socha
"Scottsdale is known for its desert, beauty, arts, and just so many things to do. The Scottsdale Library system combines all of these things in each of its locations.
The Arabian Library Branch is like entering a desert fortress. It seems both hidden behind walls as well as being bright and open. The building is a work of art. Between the design and the light streaming in its a lively place to sit and read or study. (Warming, it gets a bit chaotic when the school next door gets out early on Wednesdays and the kids stream in.)
The children's area is pretty big and separated well from the stacks. They offer many programs for kids and adults. The day I stopped in, they had a show and tell for anyone to bring in unique vintage items from their home and share the story of it.
Stop by just to take it all in. Get a free library card. Join in a gathering or program. Libraries are cool."
msbusyblonde
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Arabian Library is located in Scottsdale, Arizona. While specific public transport details can vary, driving is a common method. Parking is available, though some visitors note it's larger than it appears from the lot, requiring a walk to the entrance.
Yes, parking is available at the Arabian Library. Visitors have mentioned it's a bit of a walk from the parking lot to the entrance, but it's generally ample.
Some visitors have noted that signage could be better, and it might be larger than it appears from the parking lot, so keep an eye out!
Yes, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can drop you off at the Arabian Library. The main entrance is accessible from the parking area.
Library hours can vary, but generally, the Arabian Library is open during typical daytime hours on weekdays and weekends. It's always best to check the official Scottsdale Public Library website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Arabian Library is free for everyone. You do not need a ticket to visit and explore the facilities.
Getting a library card is free for Maricopa County residents. You'll typically need a valid ID and proof of residency.
While general entry is free, some special events or competitions, like the Jigsaw Puzzle Competition, may have registration fees or require team sign-ups. Check the library's online calendar for details.
The library offers various seating areas, and some may have study rooms. It's advisable to inquire at the information desk or check the library's website for reservation policies and availability.
The children's section is open during the library's regular operating hours. Special programs for children, like 'Stay and Play' or 'Pages with Police Story time,' have specific scheduled times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, the Arabian Library is a bright, open, and welcoming space with a unique architectural design. It features comfortable seating, extensive book collections, and dedicated areas for children and adults.
Absolutely! The children's area is spacious and well-equipped with books, toys, a play kitchen, and puppets, making it a fantastic spot for kids to play and learn.
Yes, the library offers a comfortable setting with plenty of seating spread throughout. However, some visitors note it can get quite loud, especially during peak times or when school groups are present, which might impact its suitability for quiet study.
The library hosts a variety of programs for all ages, including story times, 'Stay and Play' sessions for young children, jigsaw puzzle competitions, and even 'Pages with Police Story time.'
Yes, the unique architecture and natural light make it a popular spot for photography, especially for architecture enthusiasts.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Arabian Library, especially for personal use. The striking architecture and natural light make it a popular spot for photographers.
The main atrium with its natural light and the exterior desert-inspired design are particularly photogenic. The children's area also offers colorful and engaging backdrops.
While personal photography is usually fine, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other patrons and avoid disruptive behavior. For professional or commercial photography, it's best to contact the library in advance.
When photographing in the children's area, be respectful of other families and their privacy. It's best to focus on the space and activities rather than individuals without permission.
Yes, the design of the Arabian Library is known for incorporating ample natural light, making it ideal for photography throughout the day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a perfect spot for toddlers and preschoolers to enjoy 'Stay and Play' sessions or engaging story times. Beyond the dedicated play zone, the library offers a welcoming environment for all ages. Parents can enjoy the comfortable seating while kids explore. Remember to check the library's calendar for special events like 'Pages with Police Story time,' which are fantastic for engaging young children in a fun, educational setting.
📚 Book Lovers & Students
Students and remote workers will appreciate the ample seating and the generally welcoming atmosphere. However, be aware that the library can get quite lively, especially during after-school hours or special events. If you require absolute silence for intense study, consider visiting during quieter weekday mornings or inquire about dedicated quiet zones.
📸 Architecture Enthusiasts
The way natural light floods the interior creates a dramatic and inspiring visual experience, perfect for photography. Take your time to explore the building's unique features, from the exterior facade to the interior spaces. The interplay of light, shadow, and materials offers endless photographic opportunities. It’s a place where the structure itself tells a story, making it a rewarding visit for architecture buffs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel
Visitors often remark on the library's unique aesthetic, with some describing it as a 'work of art.' The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the clean lines and desert-inspired materials, offers a truly memorable experience. It's a place where the building itself becomes an attraction, drawing in architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Whether you're there to read, study, or simply admire the design, the Arabian Library's architecture provides a unique backdrop. It’s a testament to how public spaces can be both functional and aesthetically captivating, offering a peaceful retreat that feels both grounded in its environment and open to new ideas.
Family Fun and Programs
Beyond the play area, the library actively hosts a range of community programs designed to entertain and educate. These include popular 'Stay and Play' sessions for toddlers, engaging story times, and even unique events like 'Pages with Police Story time,' where children can interact with local officers. For older kids and adults, events like the Jigsaw Puzzle Competition offer a fun, competitive challenge.
+1These programs make the Arabian Library a dynamic hub for families, offering more than just books. They provide opportunities for social interaction, learning, and shared experiences, reinforcing the library's role as a vital community resource for all ages.
A Haven for Readers and Learners
The library offers numerous comfortable seating areas spread throughout its expansive space, providing ample opportunities for quiet reading or focused study. Many of these spots are strategically placed to offer pleasant views of the surrounding desert landscape, enhancing the reading experience.
However, it's worth noting that the library's popularity and open design can sometimes lead to a lively atmosphere. While many appreciate the vibrant energy, some visitors seeking absolute silence for study might find it challenging during peak hours or when school groups are present. Despite this, it remains a beloved spot for many in the community to access knowledge and enjoy the simple pleasure of a good book.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit