How to Find Austin's Best Libraries

In addition to an extensive public library system, the city of Austin boasts a wide variety of libraries and library-related resources, including state archives and the libraries of the University of Texas at Austin. With so many choices, the trick is to decide what your interests are and then to find Austin's best libraries that fit your needs. This article explains how to identify the best of library for your purposes, along with suggesting libraries for particular subjects.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Personal identification and proof of residency (to obtain library cards)

1. Decide what you want from the library. If you desire to check out some best sellers or other recreational reading, choose one of the many branch libraries of the Austin Public Library. You will need identification and proof of residence to get a library card and borrow books and other materials.

2. Use the children’s reading and education programs offered by many libraries to introduce them to the joys of reading and learning. The Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library and Museum and the Austin Public Libraries have programs designed especially for young readers.

3. Visit the Austin History Center to learn about the history of Austin and Texas. Besides the museum exhibits, the Center has an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, audio-visual material and newspaper clippings.

4. Pick the right library for student and research projects. All Texas residents can get borrowing privileges at the University of Texas (Austin) libraries. For example, if you have a project to do in chemistry go to the Chemistry library.

5. Contact the State Records Center and Talking Book Circulation Department if you have a disability. You can also take advantage of the adaptive resources of the Austin Public Library System.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t stop with the large institutions to find Austin’s best libraries. There are dozens of smaller collections in and around Austin. If you have an interest in some topic, chances are there’s a museum or organization that has at least a small library devoted to it. For instance, if you love flowers you can go to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center and browse their audio-visual and print resources.

Resources

• Contact Information for Austin Libraries

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