Beyond Books

WITH SUMMER JUST around the corner, perhaps it’s a good time to visit a cool respite that is one of our city’s crown jewels: the Austin Central Library. I’ve stopped in a few times since it opened to the public on October 28, 2017, and each time, I’ve discovered something new that makes me love it a little bit more.

Designed by Lake|Flato Architects in collaboration with Shepley Bulfinch, Austin Central Library stands as the city’s first project to achieve LEED platinum certification, awarded on July 19, 2018. LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, is a globally recognized green-building rating system that verifies a property’s sustainability, efficiency and environmental performance.

A prime example of the library’s innovative design is a massive 700,000-gallon cistern located just  across the street. This system captures rainwater from the library’s roof, channeling it through underground pipes into the cistern.

The collected rainwater—along with condensation from air conditioning units—is then reused to irrigate the surrounding landscape and flush toilets inside the building. These sustainable strategies not only reduce the library’s dependence on municipal water, but also help preserve precious water resources in Austin’s lakes, streams and the Colorado River for local wildlife and  the city’s growing population.

INVITING DESIGN 

Located in the Seaholm District, the library is easily accessible after a stroll on Lady Bird Lake or before grocery shopping at Trader Joe’s.

Walking into the space, it’s hard not to be dazzled by the winding staircases that float above you, along with the iconic 37-foot-tall sculpture named “Caw” that hangs inside the open atrium.

 “As Austin’s grackles are well-known, this artwork represents an important aspect of our city,” says Dale Bridges, one of the many friendly faces you’ll see at the front desk. “Everyone sees these birds everywhere!” Artist Christian Moeller, originally from Austria, designed the sculpture with his own deep respect for blackbirds in general.

Beyond the first floor, you’ll find many beautiful design elements of Central Texas all around— mesquite and oak woods blended with clean lines.

You’ll want to visit the rooftop garden with picturesque views of Shoal Creek and downtown Austin. If you find yourself there on a rainy day, directly inside on the top floor is an inviting lounge with gently lit lamps, comfy chairs and large windows to gaze out of between reading breaks.

Just beyond the front desk, to the right, is the gallery space. I’ve personally been in the space for book signings by local authors.

The gallery showcases local artists and rotates regularly. Guests are encouraged to peruse the art, learn about the artists and support them by following their work. The gift shop also sells books and art by local residents.

A MULTITUDE OF PROGRAMS 

Programming is diverse and accessible to both locals and visitors. Many people visit simply to get tourist shots, browse the local art on display or to take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown in the rooftop reading deck.

There are so many offerings available—from a cooking club that hosts how-to sessions in the demonstration area just below the atrium to all sorts of family-friendly activities.

Examples of events include a Graphic Novel Book Club, Yoga Class, Coding, Read/Watch/Talk Book and Movie Club (online), Financial Preparations for Business, Club de Lectura, All Ages Storytime, Art Smart, Chess Club, Tween Code and Pajama Storytime. In addition to all of this, there’s a beautiful gift shop that is fun to check out and a relaxing café, where I purchased a delicious, hot chai latte.

Last but not least are the many books and resources available at this location. The Austin Central Library building has a total of six floors within 200,000 square feet that house 350,000 books, 13 shared learning rooms, 140 public-use computers and 150 self-check electronic devices.

Other offerings include the Innovation Lounge, which provides public access to a number of specialized tools such as 3D printers, Raspberry Pi computing kits, a computerized sewing machine and soldering irons, to name just a few. If you need help finding anything, there are plenty of accommodating staff members on hand to assist you on every floor.

FRIENDLY POLICIES 

Back at the front desk, Bridges is letting a visitor know that the library won’t fine her for turning in an overdue item. She’s concerned as she hands in the volume. “We are just happy you returned the book,” he tells her kindly. “Thank you so much. Is there anything else I can help you with?”

I didn’t realize this was now standard procedure. A little research reveals that on February 17, 2022, the Austin City Council adopted an ordinance eliminating fines for Austin Public Library materials returned or renewed past the due date. To learn more, check out Fine-Free Library FAQ at https://library.austintexas.gov/finefreeFAQ.

If you don’t have the time or means to travel this summer, why not be a tourist in your own city? Check out a book, explore the artwork on display or take part in one of the many programs offered at our beautiful, state-of-the-art Central Library.

BY CARMEN GRAY