14 W. 10th St., Kansas City
816/701-3400
www.kclibrary.org

HOURS: Mon.–Wed. 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Thurs. 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 1–5 p.m.

A five-story structure originally built in 1904 as a bank underwent a complete renovation in 2005 to become the central branch of Kansas City’s public library system. Architecturally significant features such as ceiling plaster, millwork, and numerous chandeliers remain as tributes to the building’s history, making the library a popular choice for weddings, gatherings, and other special events.

While you’re at the library, take the elevator to the fifth floor and go out to the library rooftop, a peaceful oasis that offers breathtaking downtown views. Umbrella-covered tables are an ideal spot for a picnic, and on select summer evenings the library hosts rooftop movies and other special events.

Along the south exterior wall of the library’s parking garage, the Community Bookshelf remains a visually striking addition to downtown. The spines of 22 literary classics and regional favorites, each measuring 25 feet by 9 feet and immortalized in signboard mylar, create a sculptural tribute to the written word.

For a self-guided tour of the Library District, visit www.kclibrary.org/district-tour.