ABOUT US

YOU BELONG AT THE LIBRARY

With 7 Spokane Public Library locations containing millions of items and resources, we can help you become the person you want to be. Access free books, movies, music, things, events, printing, computers, meeting rooms, and much more. When you think about what you need and who you want to be, there is no limit to what you can accomplish with your library card.

FIND EBOOKS, AUDIOBOOKS, & MORE

Stream eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and more instantly from your device with our digital library. When you need a book or movie ASAP, visit us online for instant access to thousands of digital items. 

BOOK A MEETING ROOM

Need a FREE space to host your next meeting or event? Look no further! Spokane Public Library has numerous meeting rooms, maker studios, study rooms, and more for you to use with your library card. See which Library locations are open to reserve a meeting room or event space today.

A BRIEF HISTORY

After a few attempts to establish a library in Spokane, Washington, a small collection of materials was housed in 1891. When the Library faced financial trouble in 1894, the City took possession of it, and it became the Spokane City Library. For more than 100 years, Spokane Public Library has expanded to help the community learn and grow. 

LIBRARY OF THE FUTURE

In November 2018, voters approved a $77 million bond to build three new libraries and renovate four existing libraries. Construction began in spring of 2020 amidst a global pandemic, but continued mostly on schedule. Four libraries opened in 2021: The Hive®, Shadle Park Library, Liberty Park Library, and Hillyard Library. Central Library (formerly Downtown Library) opened in July, 2022 and a renovated South Hill and Indian Trail will open late 2022/early 2023. 

MISSION, VISION, & VALUES

Spokane Public Library is a community of learning. We aim to inspire a thriving city through cultural and educational opportunities. The Library Board of Trustees approved the current mission, vision, values and strategic directions at the September 2018 meeting. Our values include education, collaboration, diversity, innovation, customer experience, and accountability.

LIBRARY LEADERSHIP

Spokane Public Library is a department of the City of Spokane. Each year, the City allocates a portion of the general fund to the Library Board of Trustees, a group of five citizen volunteers who oversee the administration of the Library. The Board charges responsibility for library administration to the Library Executive Director.

AWARDS

The Library and staff have received awards for achievement in a variety of areas, from developing new and innovative programming, to contributing to the business and arts development of our community, to some of the most coveted and prestigious awards in the library industry.

LIBRARY NEWS

The Library is constantly thinking of new ways to help you – from new buildings, to new services, events, materials, and more. Read about some of our latest offerings and stories to help you find what you need.

THE LATEST FROM THE BLOG

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