Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Library is a public and university library in downtown San Jose, spanning eight floors with reading rooms, computer workstations, and collections. The building combines academic resources for San Jose State University students with public services for all city residents under one roof.

The facility opened in August 2003 as the first jointly operated library between a state university and a city library system in the United States. This collaboration aimed to reduce costs and expand resources for both user groups.

The name honors Martin Luther King Jr. and his work for social justice, reflected in exhibitions and program design. Visitors regularly see students and city residents working together at tables, underlining the connecting role of this space.

Visitors receive 90 minutes of free parking at the Fourth Street Garage and can use the facility until 8 PM Monday through Thursday. The upper floors offer quieter work areas, while the lower levels are livelier and see more foot traffic.

Each floor displays integrated art installations by Mel Chin that explore themes of knowledge through sculptures and visual elements. These works appear in floors, walls, and furniture, transforming the space into a walkable gallery.

Location: Santa Clara County

Inception: August 2003

Part of: San Jose Public Library, San José State University

Address: One Washington Square, San José, CA 95192-0028, USA

Phone: +14088082000

Website: https://sjlibrary.org

GPS coordinates: 37.33551,-121.88500

Latest update: December 12, 2025 21:49