Central Library

Central Library is a modern six-story building with a distinctive hexagonal facade and a grand wood archway entrance that dominates the space. The structure spans 240,000 square feet and contains different areas for books, learning, and community gatherings.

The building opened in 2018 as a replacement for the original branch that had served the city since the 1960s. This project marked a major renewal of the downtown cultural infrastructure.

The Shaikh Family Welcome Gallery displays artwork by local artists, including a buffalo sculpture and mural that reflect the region's heritage and identity.

The library sits next to City Hall Station with access to both the Red and Blue CTrain lines. Parking is readily available nearby, and the grounds are easy to walk through.

The entire building floats above an active light rail line, while outdoor amphitheaters are built into the landscaped terraces. This design lets traffic flow underneath while creating gathering spaces above.

Location: Calgary

Inception: November 1, 2018

Architects: Snøhetta

Official opening: November 1, 2018

Part of: Calgary Public Library

Address: 800 3 Street SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2E7

Website: http://yycnewcentrallibrary.com

GPS coordinates: 51.04530,-114.05490

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:25