Mount Pleasant Library

Mount Pleasant Library is a public library in the Mount Pleasant neighborhood of Washington that combines Italian Renaissance architecture with modern extensions. The original building is connected to a contemporary addition through a glass atrium and houses reading spaces, study areas, and computer workstations.

The building was designed by Edward Lippincott Tilton and opened in 1925 as an early neighborhood branch using foundation funding. A major renovation in the 2010s modernized the structure and created new spaces for different age groups.

The interior walls feature murals from the 1930s by Aurelius Battaglia depicting circus animals in performance, created as part of a government employment program. These artworks shape the character of the spaces and reflect artistic practices of that era.

The building is easily accessible and provides public computers, study rooms, and free WiFi for visitors. The spaces are designed to support different activities, from quiet study to group work.

The wall artworks were created through a 1930s employment program that provided work for artists during economic hardship. This historical artistic initiative remains visible today and is often overlooked by many visitors.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1925

Architects: Edward Lippincott Tilton

Official opening: May 1925

Part of: District of Columbia Public Library

Address: 3160 16th St NW, Washington, DC 20010

Phone: +12026710200

Email: mtpleasantlibrary@dc.gov

Website: https://dclibrary.org/mtpleasant

GPS coordinates: 38.93056,-77.03694

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:25