Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Library
A stunning architectural gem offering vast book collections, engaging exhibits, and free resources for all.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience festivals & exhibits
Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Library
Best Time
Experience festivals & exhibits
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning architectural gem offering vast book collections, engaging exhibits, and free resources for all.
"Honestly, the most beautiful library I've ever been to."
📚 Borrow More Than Books
Unlock a world of resources: stream movies, borrow tools like pressure washers, and access specialized kits with your library card!
📅 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like the Columbus Book Festival or temporary exhibits. Plan your visit around these exciting happenings!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gutenberg Bible
Rare Books Collection
Gaze upon a rare Gutenberg Bible, a true treasure of historical significance, housed securely for public viewing.
Giant Bug Exhibit
Main Library
Come face-to-face with colossal models of insects, including an 8-foot firefly and a 10-foot orb web spider.
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Children's Area
Main Library
A magical space designed for little ones, featuring interactive elements and a dedicated baby room for crawling and early walking exploration.
Local History & Genealogy
Main Library
Delve into Columbus's past with extensive print collections and archives, managed by a dedicated team of experts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beyond Books: Discover Library Perks
Plan for Special Events
+2Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📚 Borrow More Than Books
Unlock a world of resources: stream movies, borrow tools like pressure washers, and access specialized kits with your library card!
📅 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like the Columbus Book Festival or temporary exhibits. Plan your visit around these exciting happenings!
👶 Explore the Children's Area
The dedicated children's section, including a baby room, offers a fantastic, engaging space for young learners.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Appreciate the beautiful design and the inspiring 'Open To All' and 'My Treasures Are Within' etchings.
Tips
from all over the internet
📚 Borrow More Than Books
Unlock a world of resources: stream movies, borrow tools like pressure washers, and access specialized kits with your library card!
📅 Check Event Calendar
Don't miss special events like the Columbus Book Festival or temporary exhibits. Plan your visit around these exciting happenings!
👶 Explore the Children's Area
The dedicated children's section, including a baby room, offers a fantastic, engaging space for young learners.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Appreciate the beautiful design and the inspiring 'Open To All' and 'My Treasures Are Within' etchings.
🚂 See the Model Train
A delightful surprise for many visitors, the meticulously set-up model train is a charming addition to the library experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Columbus Metropolitan Library Main Library for its stunning architecture and friendly, helpful staff. The extensive book collection and engaging exhibits, like the giant bugs and rare books, are major draws. Families particularly appreciate the well-designed children's area. While most experiences are free and highly positive, some visitors note that information about rare items can be limited.
"This library is so beautiful! The staff are so friendly and helpful. The book collection is huge and it's easy to find whatever you're looking for. And the giant bugs are so cool."
Sheila Hill
"Visited for the Columbus BookFest. I believe this is the third year, though my first time attending.
The weather was super hot on Saturday and Sunday, though it also rained on Saturday.
The library was awesome, as were the topiary grounds. Very picturesque.
There were numerous booths selling books and other merchandise. Many food trucks as well.
There were also a LOT of authors, which is the reason for coming.
Our primary objective this trip was to meet Matt Dinniman (Dungen Crawler Carl series) who was VERY popular at this event. I'd be willing to bet he was THE MAIN attraction based on crowds, long lines.
Though he wasn't meant to sign all day Sunday, he made himself available to do just that, ensuring anyone who wanted to, could have their book signed. Such a great stand-up guy! He went the extra mile and signed while walking around the event too.. which is when my daughter got her books and such signed. Check out the series if you haven't already! The audiobooks are AWESOME.
Overall, a very successful event, and worth the trip."
MChelle
"So great, loved the baby room! I just discovered that they had this!! So fun for babies who are crawling and learning to walk!"
Emma Renner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Main Library is centrally located downtown. Public transportation options are readily available, and parking is available for a small fee.
Yes, there is paid parking available near the library, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The Main Library is well-served by Columbus's public transit system, with many routes stopping nearby.
The library is designed to be accessible, with features to accommodate visitors with various needs.
Operating hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Columbus Metropolitan Library website for the most up-to-date schedule.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the library and most of its exhibits, like the giant bugs, is completely free.
You don't need a library card to enter and explore the library, but having one unlocks many borrowing and digital services.
Most exhibits, including popular ones like the giant bugs and the Gutenberg Bible display, are free to view. Special ticketed events are rare.
For major events like the Columbus Book Festival, it's advisable to check the library's website for any registration requirements or recommendations.
General photography for personal use is usually permitted, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of others and check for any specific signage regarding photography in certain areas.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can stream movies, borrow tools, explore historical archives, visit engaging exhibits like giant bugs, and enjoy a fantastic children's area.
Yes, the library boasts a wonderful children's area with interactive elements and a dedicated baby room, perfect for young visitors.
Indeed! The library houses a collection of rare books, including a Gutenberg Bible, which can be viewed in a secure display.
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the library, allowing visitors to connect and utilize digital resources.
This motto, etched on the building, signifies the library's commitment to being a welcoming and accessible resource for everyone in the community.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full-service cafe inside, special events like the Columbus Book Festival often feature food trucks.
Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks in designated areas or outside the library to protect the collections and maintain a clean environment.
Being in downtown Columbus, there are numerous restaurants and cafes within walking distance of the library.
Yes, the festival typically includes food trucks offering a variety of options for attendees.
The library grounds, especially during events, can be pleasant for a picnic, but always be mindful of any specific rules or regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, personal photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of other patrons and avoid flash photography in sensitive areas.
The stunning architecture, the rare books display, the vibrant children's area, and the outdoor grounds during events are all highly photogenic. +1
While personal use is fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permission. Check with library staff if you plan extensive shoots.
Photography of the Gutenberg Bible may be restricted to protect the artifact. It's best to check signage or ask a librarian.
Absolutely! Events like the Columbus Book Festival offer dynamic scenes, author interactions, and lively atmospheres perfect for capturing memories.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the dedicated children's section, the library frequently hosts engaging exhibits that appeal to all ages, such as the giant bug models or the model train.
+2 These temporary attractions provide exciting, hands-on experiences that make learning fun. Plus, during special events like the Columbus Book Festival, there's often a Family Zone with additional activities. 📚 Book Lovers & Researchers
The Local History & Genealogy department is a goldmine for those seeking to uncover the past, with extensive print collections and archival materials. Don't forget to check the library's digital offerings, which include streaming movies and other media accessible with a library card.
Budget-Conscious Visitors
+1 This makes it an excellent option for an enriching and entertaining outing without spending a dime on admission. Furthermore, your library card unlocks a treasure trove of free digital resources, such as movie streaming and access to a vast collection of books and e-books.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Columbus Metropolitan Library: More Than Just Books
The library's commitment to accessibility is evident in its architecture and programming. The motto 'Open To All,' etched across the building's facade, underscores its mission to serve everyone. Inside, you'll find meticulously organized sections, including a vibrant children's area designed for interactive learning and play, and a dedicated baby room for the youngest patrons.
Beyond its everyday services, the Main Library is a venue for significant cultural events. It hosts the annual Columbus Book Festival, drawing authors, publishers, and book lovers from across the region. Temporary exhibits, such as the impressive giant bug models or the historical Gutenberg Bible, further enhance the visitor experience, making the library a dynamic destination for learning and discovery.
+2Exploring History and Genealogy at CML
Visitors can delve into a wide array of resources, from local historical records to genealogical research materials. Whether you're tracing your family tree or researching the history of Columbus and its surrounding areas, the knowledgeable staff and extensive collection are invaluable assets. The department serves as a vital resource for researchers, students, and curious individuals alike, offering a deep dive into the region's heritage.
This specialized section of the library provides a quiet and focused environment for in-depth research. It’s a place where the stories of the past are preserved and made accessible, allowing for a deeper understanding of community identity and historical context. For those with a passion for history, this department is an essential stop.
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