Central Library Architecture
The new Central Library is the eighth project completed under the 1998 voter-approved Libraries for All building program.
Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas designed the new building in a joint venture with Seattle-based LMN Architects.
About the building
The current Central Library opened to the public on May 23, 2004. In its first year of operation, it attracted more than 8,000 visitors a day - double the average attendance in the old building. The new Central Library gives Seattle both a civic icon and a functional, user-friendly building that offers many different services and spaces.
Central Library's program area is 362,987 square feet. Designed with growth in mind, the Central Library has a capacity for more than 1.45 million books and materials. All of those books move around the building in a high-tech book-handling system.
For public use, the Central Library has more than 300 computers, Wi-Fi Internet access, Wi-Fi printing, scanners, copiers and printers. You’ll also find private Skype rooms, music practice rooms, meeting rooms, quiet areas for reading and study, and tables for group work.