Public Library of Des Moines

The Public Library system operates six locations across the city that together hold over half a million items for residents and visitors. The Central Library serves as the main hub with research collections, computer workstations, meeting rooms, and a space dedicated to technical exploration and learning.

It began in 1866 as a small collection in a church basement before becoming a free public institution in 1882 through community action. This transformation into a public resource reflected how residents wanted to ensure access to knowledge for everyone in their growing city.

The Authors Visiting program brings published writers to meet readers through talks and discussions that happen regularly throughout the year. These events shape how the community engages with literature and give visitors direct access to creative voices.

The central location is easily accessible with computer workstations and meeting rooms available to visitors. Visiting in the morning or on quieter weekdays usually means a more relaxed browsing experience with better access to services.

The current Central Library building was designed by renowned Swiss architect David Chipperfield and opened in 2006 with a modern approach that deliberately breaks from traditional library design. Many visitors are surprised by how the building itself becomes part of the experience rather than simply holding the collection.