Washoe County Library

Washoe County Library is a modern facility in downtown Reno designed with elevated seating areas and an interior garden court planted with trees. A bridge spans across to connect visitors to the circulation desk and different sections of the building.

The building was constructed in 1963 with funds from the Fleischmann Foundation and replaced the earlier Carnegie Free Public Library that had been demolished. This modern structure marked a shift in how the city approached library design.

The library serves as a gathering place in downtown Reno where people from all backgrounds come together to learn and connect. It reflects the community's diversity and provides space for neighbors to meet and exchange ideas.

The library is located on South Center Street in the downtown area and is easy to reach on foot. Inside you will find study areas, computer workstations, and collaborative learning spaces distributed across different levels.

The building contains a fallout shelter built during the Cold War era that is no longer in active use. Finding such a feature in a public library is uncommon and reflects the safety concerns of that historical period.

Location: Reno

Architects: Hewitt C. Wells

Architectural style: modern architecture

Part of: Washoe County Library System

Address: 301 S Center St, Reno, NV 89501

Phone: +17753278300

GPS coordinates: 39.52220,-119.81000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:44