Central Library UNAM

The Central Library UNAM is a large university library building in Ciudad Universitaria designed with multiple floors for document storage and open study spaces for visitors. The structure combines archive areas with public reading zones in one cohesive facility.

The building opened in 1956 when the university library relocated from its previous location in downtown Mexico City, where it had operated for decades. This move represented a fresh start for the institution in a purpose-built modern setting.

The building's outer walls feature large murals created by Juan O'Gorman using colored tiles that tell Mexico's story from pre-Hispanic times through colonial days to the present. You can follow this visual journey simply by walking around the exterior.

The building houses millions of books, journals, newspapers, and other materials in different formats organized across its multiple levels. Visitors should be prepared to move through several floors to locate the materials they are looking for.

The reading rooms feature thin slabs of tecali stone that filter natural light from above while shielding the collections below from direct sunlight. This material creates a distinctive quality of light in the study areas.

Location: Mexico City

Part of: Ciudad Universitaria

Address: University City, Coyoacán, 04510 Mexico City, CDMX, Mexico

Website: https://bibliotecacentral.unam.mx

GPS coordinates: 19.33348,-99.18710

Latest update: December 19, 2025 23:55