Did you know that Austin’s brand new Central Library The Austin Central has been named one of Time Magazine’s Greatest Places to Visit in 2018? The library near Seaholm is much more than just a collection of books. Located right around the corner from the Seaholm Condos, this state-of-the-art building is a major attraction both for the local community and visitors from abroad.
What makes the New Central Library so great?
First and foremost, the building itself.
Designed by Lake/Flato-Shepley/Bullfinch, the New Central Library building is the pinnacle of sustainability. Throughout its six floors, visitors will find modern, energy-saving LED fixtures, rainwater reclamation, a bike-friendly utility area, and a butterfly garden on the roof promoting the sustainability of the littlest of Austin’s wildlife. This building is Platinum LEED Certified.
The architects also worked to incorporate the gorgeous surrounding environment indoors. Overlooking Shoal Creek and Lady Bird Lake near the Seaholm District in Downtown Austin, the building speaks to the culture, history and arts scene of the local community.
The structure covers a total of 200,000 square feet and features six floors. It has modern and futuristic amenities such as open air reading spaces, a cafe, conference rooms and more.
What Visitors Can Expect to See Once Inside
Apart from the over 300,000 books available on the shelves, the interior of library is designed to be an enjoyable and whimsical place of learning and discovery for visitors of all ages. Done in a contemporary and sometimes modern style, large staircases seem to randomly crawl upwards underneath large beam-supported lighting fixtures and walkways. Adorned with plenty of natural light and wood accents, the interior of the library is immediately cozy – a place you want to sit and enjoy a good book.
Inside, the library is an expansive open area that includes the following features:
- 14 reading rooms (or nooks)
- maker spaces for creatives
- outdoor reading porches
- a technology center
- bookstore
- café
- art gallery
- demonstration kitchen
- outdoor dining
- 350-seat event center.
There are also a total of 14 shared rooms for group learning or classes, 50 large screens used to display electronic information, 150 electronic devices and 140 PCs and Mac computers for use by the public.
Other Details You Should Know
If you’re interested in visiting the library here are some important facts that you should know.
The library has two levels of underground parking, with a total of 140 parking spaces for the public. Parking is also free for the first 30 minutes.
Hours of operation:
- Monday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm
- Friday – Saturday: 10am – 6pm
- Sunday: 12pm – 6pm
The Austin central library near the Seaholm Residences is part of a larger plan to create more vibrant, resilient, and stronger urban communities. With such facilities available, downtown living in Austin is a world-class experience.
If you’re looking to make the move to downtown, get in touch with Audra today to learn more about the Seaholm Condos.
