Salt Lake City Main Library - Salt Lake City, Utah
Posted by: 
Lord Mot
N 40° 45.603 W 111° 53.062
12T E 425353 N 4512497
Located at 210 e. 400 s. Salt Lake City Utah
Waymark Code: WMB79J
Location: Utah, United States
Date Posted: 04/14/2011
Views: 15
Salt Lake City's Main Library, designed by internationally-acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, embodies the idea that a library is more than a repository of books and computers; it reflects and engages the city's imagination and aspirations. The building, which opened in February 2003, is double the previous space with 240,000 square feet for more than 500,000 books and other materials, and room for the collection to grow. The six-story curving, walkable wall embraces the public plaza, with shops and services at ground level, reading galleries above, and a 300-seat auditorium. A multi-level reading area along the glass lens at the southern facade of the building looks out onto the plaza with stunning views of the city and Wasatch Mountains beyond. A roof-top garden, accessible by walking the crescent wall or the elevators, offers a 360 degree view of the Salt Lake Valley. Spiraling fireplaces on four floors resemble a column of flame from the vantage of 200 East and 400 South. The Urban Room between the library and the crescent wall is a space for all seasons, generously endowed with daylight and open to magnificent views.
Natural light is introduced into all of the spaces where people sit and work. Infused with light from all sides, the library has paid careful attention to ensure that library materials and technology are not affected by direct sunlight. The clear glass on the lens of the triangle has the highest UV rating available for energy efficiency. Indirect lighting fixtures reflect off the painted, arched ceilings to cast even light, reducing glare on computer screens, desk surfaces, and book pages.
On each level of the library, as you exit the elevator or come up the stairs, you will find a building directory and signage designed to help you orient yourself. The layout and design of the book stacks helps direct you to various service areas as well as to the restrooms, copy machines, public telephones, and drinking fountains on the west side of Levels 2, 3, and 4.
Children's Library: Lower Level
Audiovisual Collection: Level 1
The Technology Center: Level 1
Browsing Library and Cafe: Level 1
The Canteena: Level 2
Newspapers and Magazines: Level 2
Languages and Literacy: Level 3
Special Collections: Level 4
The Gallery at Library Square: Level 4
Library Square and Landscaping
The architects sought to link the Main Library and City Hall as companion buildings in support of civic engagement. A granite water wall provides a cooling atmosphere and flows into a wedge-shaped garden. A reflecting pool at the base of the glass lens offers a respite from the warmth of Utah's summer sun. The public plaza (known as Library Square) was designed to create opportunities for community festivals, events, and celebrations. Funding provided through Olympic revenues helped complete the east side of the block as a peaceful urban green space.
The plazas, water features, and gardens of the Main Library are designed in the same spirit of other great public spaces - a place to meet friends, relax with a book, watch a concert, participate in a debate, or celebrate the city.
Parking at the Main Library
An underground parking facility can be accessed from eastbound 400 South between 200 and 300 East. Parking in this city-operated facility is free for the first half-hour, then $1.50 per half-hour after that. Any vehicle displaying a disability special group license plate or disability windshield placard may park in the parking garage at Library Square for two hours with no charge. Additional time beyond the two hours is $1.50 per half-hour. Starting in 2011, this parking structure offers electric vehicle charging stations near the 400 South exit ramp.
Classification of Library: Public Library (Open to all)
Internet access available: Yes - Your Laptop: Free
Hours of Operation:
Mon.-Thurs. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.
Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday 1-5 p.m.
Approximate date of opening.: 02/02/2002
Library Website: [Web Link]
Additional Internet Connection Options: Not listed
|
Visit Instructions:As a suggestion for your visit log, please make every effort to supply a brief-to-detailed note about your experience at the Waymark. If possible also include an image that was taken when you visited the Waymark. Images can be of yourself, a personal Waymarking signature item or just one of general interest that would be of value to others. Sharing your experience helps promote Waymarking and provides a dynamic history of your adventures.